Rare Colt Viper Model 2nd Series 4″ 6-Shot .38 Special Revolver, 1993
Sold for $5025.00
LSB#: 220817BP010
Make: Colt
Model: Viper, 2nd Series
Serial Number: AC1414
Year of Manufacture: 1993
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver with Swing-Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “=VIPER= / .38 SPECIAL CTG.” The crane cut is marked “AC1414” and the crane is marked “AC1414”. The left side plate is marked with the Rampant Colt logo. The rear left trigger guard bow has an incomplete inspection mark and the forward trigger guard bow is marked with the Verified Proof.
Barrel Length: 4”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a short smooth blade integral to the barrel’s solid rib. The rear sight is a square notch integral to the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth walnut with gold-colored Colt medallions. The grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Black Alloy Frame
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 97% of its metal finish. There are a few scattered minor nicks and scratches. The action shows minor operational wear including a thin, light turn-line on the cylinder. There is some minor wear around the edges of the sideplate. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear except for the inspection mark as noted. Overall, this handgun rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with no play on each chamber 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 standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Introduced in 1977 and only produced during that one year, the 1st Series Colt Viper is a D Frame Colt. It basically has the alloy frame of the Cobra with a 4” barrel from the factory. The Viper did not sell as well as Colt had expected and was discontinued. In 1993, an even more limited run of 2nd Series Vipers was made. This example is a 2nd Series in Fine condition, showing signs of limited use, retaining a great bore and strong mechanics. All of the Vipers are sought after by collectors, and while the 1977s were the first, the 1993s were the last, and fewer were made. This is a great snake to add to the pit. Please see our photos and good luck!