Colt Diamondback .38 Special SA/DA Hand Engraved Rare 2 ½” Revolver & Case

SOLD FOR: $3,113.99

WOA#: WY240602AC013

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback

Serial Number: D6896

Year of Manufacture: 1967 (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, the left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle. The crane and crane cut have the serial number, the cut also has an inspection mark. The Revolver is completely covered in hand engraved scrollwork including floral design, lattice, ribbon and leaf-work. The engraving was done by Master Engraver EDDY MARDIS who was kind enough to sign his work under the grips on the right grip frame.

Barrel Length: 2.5 Inches with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade with red insert that is pinned to the ventilated rib. The rib and top-strap are matte finished for glare reduction. The rear sight is a square notched leaf in a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation, pinned to the top strap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth White Maple with silver-colored Colt medallions at their tops. The Target grips were crafted by Badger Custom Grips and have no handling wear. The finger grooves are well defined and crisp with sharp peaks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Like New condition.

Type of Finish: French Gray

Finish Originality: Finish applied by Master Engraver Eddy Mardis

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.  In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows little to no operation wear. There are burn marks on the cylinder and under the top-strap.The turn line is crisp, thin, and faint.  The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up solidly on each chamber with the trigger depressed with no play. 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: This revolver comes in a hinged wooden box with mortised corners and two-piece foam inserts wrapped in red felt. The box features an ammo box in the bottom left interior. The box has some minimal handling wear

Our Assessment: The Diamondback is essentially a shorter framed Python both in the cylinder and grip frame, sharing similar aesthetic dynamics. Making it all the more striking in appearance and absolutely no less strength in the mechanics than its predecessor. The 2 ½ inch diamondbacks are more rare than most. The configuration of this one being completely customized to the nines with master level engraving and custom Maple stock, makes it a true one of a kind revolver. This revolver retains about 98% of its French gray finish with virtually no wear whatsoever rating in fine condition.  This will make for just  as beautiful a display piece as it would a shooter especially accompanied by its elegant, wooden, display case. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition in our high quality photos. -K.F.

Colt Diamondback .38 Special SA/DA Hand Engraved Rare 2 ½” Revolver & Case
Colt Diamondback .38 Special SA/DA Hand Engraved Rare 2 ½” Revolver & Case