COLT Diamondback D5540 .38 Special DA/SA Double Action Revolver 1968 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1208
LSB#: 220127PK002
Make: Colt
Model: Diamondback (Model D5540)
Serial Number: D26255
Year of Manufacture: 1968 (COLT Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: DA/SA Double and Single Action 6-Shot Swing Out 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 crane and crane cut are marked with the serial number, “D26255”.
Barrel Length: 4” with Full Underlug and Ventilated Rib
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade that is pinned to the vented rib; the rib and topstrap are matte finished for glare reduction. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood, each with silver-colored Colt medallions at the top. The panels have darkened somewhat from handling and are weathered/worn down with light nicks along the edges, and the heel of the left panel has a heavy nick in it. There are no cracks. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips are in Good-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with well-defined rifling. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 72% of its metal finish. On either side of the revolver there is moderate thinning/holster wear on the barrel that resolves into moderate nicks and scuffs, the frame has light thinning on most edges along with minor nicks and scrapes, and the guard has moderate thinning on all edges. The cylinder has a distinct turn line along with moderate-to-heavy thinning on all edges in addition to light-to-moderate nicks and scuffs. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Good-to-Very Good 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 revolver. As with all used firearms, thorough, consistent cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This Diamondback includes a Plano “Gun Guard” plastic snap case.
Our Assessment: The Diamondback is a shorter framed Python with a dash of the Detective Special, both in the cylinder and grip frame, sharing similar aesthetic qualities and is no less striking in appearance than its predecessor. This revolver retains about 72% of its finish with wear firmly in line with persistent use and consistent range time. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of; this one should prove to be no different. Good luck and happy bidding!