Colt Diamondback .22 LR 6″ DA/SA Double Action Single Action Revolver, 1978

SOLD FOR: $1,780.00

LSB#: LSB251016KS023

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback

Serial Number: R46569

Year of Manufacture: 1978 / Modern

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked, “DIAMONDBACK /.22 LONG RIFLE”   The right side of the barrel is marked “COLTS PT.F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CONN U.S.A.”  The inside of the crane and crane cut is marked “ R46569” .   The left side of the frame is marked with the Rampant Colt.  The front of the trigger guard has a “VP” proof mark. 

Barrel Length: 6″

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a 1/8″ serrated ramped blade fixed to the barrel rib. The rear sight is an adjustable square notch pinned to the top strap.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are a two-piece walnut grips with gold Colt medallions. There are only very minor handling marks present. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips rate in Fine condition.  

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is a light  turn line.  There are no carbon rings on the face of the cylinder. There are a few small marks and smudges on the frame.  The screw heads are sharp with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards. The action is smooth and the lockup is tight.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: Factory cardboard box and paperwork (matching)

Our Assessment: Introduced in 1966, the Colt Diamondback was conceived as a refined, smaller framed counterpart to the legendary Colt Python, sharing its ventilated rib barrel profile, adjustable sights, and high polish blue finish. Built on Colt’s D frame, the Diamondback represented the upper tier of Colt’s double action revolver lineup and quickly earned the nickname “Baby Python” among collectors. By the late 1970s, when this example was manufactured, the Diamondback had firmly established its reputation for exceptional fit and finish, smooth action, and visual elegance that typified Colt’s golden era of revolver production.

This 6 inch .22 Long Rifle configuration is particularly appealing, combining the Diamondback’s sleek lines with excellent balance and a long sight radius well suited to both deliberate target work and general rimfire use. The blued finish remains strong, with only minimal handling marks and a light turn line consistent with careful ownership. The walnut grips with gold Colt medallions retain sharp checkering and present well, complementing the revolver’s overall appearance and reinforcing its position as a premium rimfire revolver rather than a utilitarian trainer.

Mechanically, the revolver exhibits the smooth double action pull and tight lockup for which Colt revolvers of this period are known. With a bright, sharp bore and matching factory box and paperwork, this Diamondback stands as a well preserved example from a highly desirable production period. It represents not only a superb .22 Long Rifle revolver, but also a tangible example of Colt’s craftsmanship during a time when aesthetic refinement and mechanical precision were paramount. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and best of luck with your bids!!!-

BF