Colt Diamondback Model Nickel 6” .22 LR DA/SA Revolver MFD 1980s & Box

SOLD FOR: $3,175.00

LSB#: WY241106CG004

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback

Serial Number: R59257

Year of Manufacture: 1979

Caliber: .22 Long Rifle

Action Type: 6-Shot, Double Action / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “DIAMONDBACK / .22 LONG RIFLE”, 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 a triangle and a letter at the rear that is too partial to make out. The crane and crane cut have the serial number. The cut is also marked “LG”.

Barrel Length: 6” with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a finely serrated ramp blade pinned 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 & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut stocks with gold-colored Colt logo medallions. The grips have only a few light marks and some shallow compressions along the back of the left panel. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates a 10 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The action shows minor operational wear with a very thin, light turn-line on the cylinder. The finish is strong throughout with a few scattered minor marks. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder lockup is tight with no movement on all 6 chambers when the trigger is depressed. 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-cardboard Colt box with two-piece styrofoam inserts. The box is missing its flap that had the label and an ear on the same side. There is modest storage wear all around the edges.  This revolver also comes with its factory letter confirming its manufacture date and nickel finish.

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. The model was offered in .38 Special as well as .22 Long Rifle, like this one. This 1980s vintage revolver retains about 99% of its desirable nickel finish, sporting an excellent bore and solid cylinder lockup with signs of limited and responsible use. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different. This will make for a beautiful display piece, especially with its high condition, but it should also prove to be a great shooter. Please see our pictures and good luck! – L.S.

Colt Diamondback Model Nickel 6” .22 LR DA/SA Revolver MFD 1980s & Box
Colt Diamondback Model Nickel 6” .22 LR DA/SA Revolver MFD 1980s & Box