COLT Diamondback D5540 38 Spl. 4″ DA/SA Double Action Revolver MFD 1972

SOLD FOR: $2025

LSB#: 220108CG004

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback (Model #D5540)

Serial Number: D51488

Year of Manufacture: 1972 (COLT Serial Number Lookup, confirmed secondarily by the included letter from Colt historian Beverly Jean Haynes.)

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 left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle, the rear with “4”. The crane and crane cut are marked with the serial number, “D51488”.

Barrel Length: 4” with Full Underlug and Ventilated Rib

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a finely serrated ramp blade that is integral to the ventilated 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, pinned to the topstrap.

Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered wood with gold-colored Colt medallions at their tops. Both panels have small areas where the checkering is very lightly worn and smooth areas are dotted with very minor nicks and compressions. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips in Fine-plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 94% of its metal finish. There is moderate thinning from holster wear along the left side of the barrel and the underlug. Holster wear is evident on the right side of the barrel as well. The barrel itself has a few light nicks. Minor thinning can be seen on some lower edges of the frame and guard. The cylinder has scattered minor nicks and infrequent spots of minor surface erosion. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine 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 cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This Diamondback includes a Colt zippered soft case, and a letter of provenance from Colt historian Beverly Jean Haynes.

Our Assessment: The Diamondback is effectively a shorter framed Python with a dash of the Detective Special, both in the cylinder and grip frame, sharing similar aesthetic dynamics and is no less striking in appearance than its predecessor. This revolver retains about 94% of its finish with some scattered wear that is most notable on the barrel. This will make for a great shooter or will do well to help fill out a collection of Serpent guns. 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!