Colt Diamondback Model, Sharp Blue 6” 6-Shot Double Action DA/SA Revolver, MFD 1980

Sold For: $1,485.00

LSB#: 170301JM01

Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback

Serial Number: S77684

Year of Manufacture: The “S” prefix was used starting in 1978, ending in 1981, this pistol was made C. 1980-81.

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 left side plate has Colt’s rampant logo, the left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in triangle, and “1” on the rear portion. The crane and crane cut have the serial number.

Barrel Length: 6” with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade that is pinned 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.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered walnut with gold colored logo medallions. The butt of the left stock has a few shallow bruises, the other surfaces exhibit infrequent scuffs. No cracks or major damages are seen, the grips completely cover the grip frame and mate to one another well, the stocks are in about Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: Polished & Matte Blue

Finish Originality: Factory Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is light lead fowling but no erosion.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are tiny scratches on the right of the barrel and underlug, the trigger guard has one small ding. The cylinder has a faint drag line that did not pierce the finish. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder produces tight full lockup with no perceivable play fore to aft or side to side. The double action trigger pull is smooth and consistent, 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: None.

Our Assessment: The Diamondback is essentially a .38 Special dedicated Python (much like the limited run Target variant), sharing similar aesthetic dynamics; it is no less striking than its predecessor; this pistol produces the same exceptional TIGHT lockup you’d expect in any other high end Colt revolver. We have seen these smaller revolvers go for nearly what the Python does since they are no longer made, since they can out shoot any modern made handgun, when in the hand of a trained pistolero. It is going to produce beautiful groupings, however this one will probably end up being a safe queen. All of Colt’s pistols are collectible, just to varying degrees. The fit and finish on this Diamondback is something to marvel at, the bore has generations of use left, if treated properly.