
Colt Diamondback D5541 Nickel 4″ .38 Special SA/DA Revolver & Letter, 1978
SOLD FOR: $2,113.99
LSB#: WY241106CG002
Make: Colt
Model: Diamondback Model D5541
Serial Number: R24642
Year of Manufacture: 1978
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver.
Barrel Length: 4” with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a finely serrated ramp blade that is integral to the ventilated rib; the rib is matte finished for glare reduction. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a blade that is adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece Altamont checkered wood with silver-colored Colt medallions. The grips have only a few scattered minor marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is a little stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 96% of its metal finish. There are some scattered minor imperfections and faint frosting in the finish. There are a few minor nicks and scuffs. The cylinder has a thin, faint turn line. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this handgun is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with no play on each chamber while the trigger is depressed. The double action trigger is smooth. The single action is 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: Included is a Colt Archives letter that indicates this revolver shipped to Nationwide Sports Distributors in Southampton, PA on July 28, 1978 as one of four guns of the same type in the shipment.
Our Assessment: The Diamondback is essentially a shorter framed Python both in the cylinder and grip frame, sharing similar aesthetic dynamics and is no less striking than its predecessor. This revolver retains about 96% of its desirable nickel finish sporting a bright, sharp bore and appearing to have seen limited and gentle use. The ‘positive lock’ action provides SOLID cylinder lockup, with smooth double and single action trigger pulls. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different. In its high condition and with factory nickel finish, it should also turn the heads of collectors. Please see our pictures and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
