Colt Diamondback .38 Spl. 4″ Double Action Single Action Revolver, 1967 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,158.48

LSB#:  LSB251205MB042

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback

Serial Number: D4570

Year of Manufacture: 1967 / C&R

Caliber: .38 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 CT U.S.A.”  The inside of the crane and crane cut is marked “D4570” with an “F”.   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:  4” Vent Rib Barrel

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 replacement Herrett’s two-piece checkered walnut grips. There are some nicks, dings and handling marks.  There are a few broken peaks on the checkering. The grip screw has rusted. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is mostly sharp. Overall, the grips rate in Good 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. There is very minor fouling near the muzzle. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 95% of its metal finish. There is thinning on the leading edges, the cylinder flutes and at the muzzle. There is a barely visible intermittent turn line. There are carbon rings on the cylinder. There are a few small handling marks and smudges on the frame.  The screw heads are sharp with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Very Good condition.

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

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.

Our Assessment:  The Colt Diamondback is widely regarded as one of the most refined double action revolvers produced during the postwar era, combining the sleek profile of the Python-style vent rib with the smaller D-frame platform. Manufactured in 1967, this 4 inch .38 Special example represents an early production revolver from a model that has become increasingly sought after by collectors. Its ribbed barrel, adjustable sights, and classic Colt lines make it both an attractive and highly functional C&R eligible revolver.

This revolver retains approximately 95 percent of its original blue finish with light thinning on the leading edges and at the muzzle. There is a faint intermittent turn line on the cylinder along with visible carbon rings. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and only very minor fouling near the muzzle, rating 9 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion. The replacement Herrett’s two piece checkered walnut grips show nicks, dings, handling marks, and a few broken checkering peaks, along with some rust on the grip screw, but remain free of chips or cracks and rate in Good condition overall.

Mechanically, the action functions correctly with a smooth trigger pull and tight lockup. The screw heads are sharp with strong slots and the markings remain clear. With strong original finish, desirable 4 inch vent rib configuration, and early production status, this 1967 Diamondback is a very attractive example of a classic Colt double action revolver. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!

BF