Colt Diamondback .38 Spl 2 1/2” Double Action Single Action Revolver, C&R

SOLD FOR: $2,225.00

LSB#: LSB251016KS026

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback

Serial Number: D46647

Year of Manufacture: 1971 / C&R (https://proofhouse.com/colt/)

Caliber: .38 S&W Special

Action Type: Double Action Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked, “DIAMONDBACK .38 SPECIAL CTG.”  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 “D46647” with an “N”.   The left side of the frame is marked with the Rampant Colt.  The front of the trigger guard has a “VP” proof mark with an “O” on the rear of the trigger guard. 

Barrel Length: 2 1/2”

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a 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 silver Colt medallions. There have very minor handling marks present. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips rate in Fine condition.  

Type of Finish: Nickel

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 9/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish.  The leading edges are thinning. There is a light  turn line. There are a few small marks and scratches 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: None

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 finish. Often referred to by collectors as the “Baby Python,” the Diamondback was built on Colt’s D frame and represented the upper tier of Colt’s double action revolver lineup during the late 1960s and 1970s. By 1971, when this example was manufactured, the Diamondback had firmly established its reputation for smooth action, excellent balance, and the level of fit and finish that defined Colt’s golden era of revolver production.

Chambered in .38 Special with a 2½ inch barrel, this Diamondback reflects a configuration favored for concealed carry and plainclothes law enforcement use, while still retaining target grade features. The revolver remains in notably strong condition, retaining approximately 98 percent of its original nickel finish with only light thinning at the edges, minor holster wear, and a faint cylinder turn line. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, and the walnut grips with silver Colt medallions remain crisp with only minimal handling marks, reinforcing the impression of careful ownership.

Mechanically, the revolver exhibits the qualities for which the Diamondback is prized, including a smooth double action pull and tight lockup. With its excellent finish retention, desirable short barrel length, and classic Colt styling, this 1971 Diamondback stands as a highly representative example from the height of Colt’s revolver craftsmanship. It remains one of the most recognizable and collectible D frame Colts, valued for both its elegance and mechanical refinement. Please see our high quality photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids!!!

BF