Colt Model Diamondback D5541 .38 Spl 4″ Nickel DA/SA Revolver MFD 1971

SOLD FOR: $1875

LSB#: 210526CV01

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback, Model D5541

Serial Number: D46700

Year of Manufacture: 1971 (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 CT. U.S.A.”. The side plate has Colt’s rampant logo, the left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle, the rear with “U”. The crane and crane cut have the serial number, the cut also has an inspection mark.

Barrel Length: 4” with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a finely serrated ramp blade that is pinned to the ventilated rib; the rib and topstrap are matte finished for glare reduction. The front sight has been painted yellow. 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 black rubber with gold-colored Colt medallions at their tops. There are a couple of little scuffs, most noticeable along the backs. There are some light handling marks. The checkering is strong. Overall, the grips are in about Fine Plus condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright. The rifling is sharp. There is some erosion at the muzzle.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 94% of its metal finish. There are some scattered little draglines and swirl marks in the finish from use and storage. There are some scuffs. There are a few hairline scratches, most noticeable on the side plate and on the right of the frame at the front bottom corner. There are a couple of little nicks. There are a few spots of finish loss that have take on discoloration, most noticeable on the left of the barrel at the front and on the front of the underlug below the muzzle. There is another little spot of finish loss on the cylinder. There is a turn line through the finish on the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Very Good-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 94% of its finish with some scattered wear and a few spots of light erosion in the bore. This will make for a great shooter or will do well to help fill out a collection of Serpent guns. 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!