Colt Diamondback D5560 .38 Special 6″ Double Action Revolver, MFD 1980
SOLD FOR: $1981.88
LSB#: 220409GK017
Make: Colt
Model: Diamondback, Model D5560
Serial Number: S64270
Year of Manufacture: 1980 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “DIAMONDBACK / .38 SPECIAL CTG.”, the right is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CONN. U.S.A.”. The side plate has Colt’s rampant logo. These markings have been filled with a gold paint, some has worn away. The left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle, the rear with “1”. The crane and crane cut have the serial number, the cut also has an inspection mark.
Barrel Length: 6” with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a finely serrated ramp blade that is pinned to the ventilated rib. The front sight has been painted orange. The rib and topstrap are matte finished for glare reduction. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation, pinned to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with gold-colored Colt medallions at their tops. There are a few scattered minor compressions and light handling marks, but no notable damage. The checkering is mostly sharp. There are no chips or cracks. The grips have minor play to the frame. Overall, the grips are in about Fine Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There are spots of finish wear at the muzzle on each side. The action shows operational wear, including a turn-line on the cylinder. The sides of the trigger have been polished bright. There are a few scattered minor marks. There is stubborn fouling in the fronts of the cylinder flutes. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up solidly on each chamber with the trigger depressed. The double action trigger is smooth, the single action is light and crisp. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Diamondback is essentially a shorter framed Python both in the cylinder and grip frame, sharing similar aesthetic dynamics and is no less striking in appearance and mechanics than its predecessor. This revolver retains about 96% of its finish with light wear in the grips, sporting a bright, sharp bore and solid cylinder lockup. This will make for as beautiful a display piece as it would a shooter. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different. Please see our pictures and good luck!