Colt Diamondback Model D5540 4″ Blue .38 Special SA/DA Revolver, 1982
SOLD FOR: $2,004.00
WOA#: WY240418JS046
Make: Colt
Model: Diamondback Model D5540
Serial Number: P45147
Year of Manufacture: 1982 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted 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, CONN. U.S.A.”. The side plate has Colt’s rampant logo, the left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle. The crane and crane cut have the serial number, the cut also has an inspection mark.
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 base that is adjustable for windage and elevation, pinned to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with gold-colored Colt medallions at their tops. There are a few nicks and scratches around the bottom of the grips. There are a few other more minor marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are a few scattered tiny marks. The action shows very faint operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with no play on each chamber with the trigger 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: This revolver comes in a faux-wood cardboard Colt box with force-matched label, paperwork including manual, and two-piece styrofoam inserts.
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 in appearance and mechanics than its predecessor. This revolver retains about 98% of its finish with minor wear in the grips, sporting a bright, sharp bore and solid cylinder lockup. This will make for as beautiful a display piece as it would a shooter. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different. Please see our pictures and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
