Colt Diamondback .38 Special CTG 4” Revolver with Nickel Finish

SOLD FOR: $1,326

WOA#: WY240211PM008

Make: Colt

Model: DIAMONDBACK

Serial Number: R23614

Date of Manufacture: 1966-1988

Caliber: .38 Special

Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver With Swing Out Fluted Cylinder with ejector.

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “DIAMONDBACK  /  .38 SPECIAL CTG.”. The right side of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.”. The flat under the crane and the crane are marked with the serial number. The sideplate is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle. Both grip panels have Colt Rampant medallions.

Barrel Length: 4” vent rib barrel with full underlug.

Sights / Optics: The rear sight is a silver square notch adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The front sight is a serrated ramp blade pinned to the top of the rib. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte finish to reduce glare.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece Checkered wood with Colt Rampant medallions. The grips have minor scuffs and scratches throughout. The left panel has a medium scuff on the butt of the grip. The checkering is sharp, there are no chips or cracks. Overall the grips rate in Good Condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:  The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its finish. The finish has scattered pitting and surface rust throughout. The inside of the vented ribs have a green patina. There is a very faint turnline. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Good condition.

Mechanics: The lock-up on this revolver is strong with very little play. The action functions correctly. The double action trigger is smooth. The single action is crisp. We have not fired this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.  

Our Assessment: The Nickel Colt Diamondback in .38 Special stands as a timeless icon of revolver craftsmanship, cherished for its elegant design, precision engineering, and smooth performance. Produced by Colt’s Manufacturing Company during the 1960s, this revolver represents the pinnacle of Colt’s D-frame platform, offering shooters a compact yet capable firearm for both sporting and self-defense purposes. Distinguished by its nickel-plated finish, the Colt Diamondback exudes a distinctive aesthetic appeal that sets it apart from other firearms of its era. Chambered in .38 Special, a cartridge renowned for its balance of manageable recoil and stopping power, the Diamondback offers shooters a versatile option for a variety of shooting applications. Whether used for target shooting or personal protection, the .38 Special cartridge delivers reliable performance and accuracy.With its 4” barrel the Colt Diamondback offers shooters flexibility in terms of concealability and accuracy. Paired with adjustable target sights, the revolver allows for precise shot placement, enabling shooters to fine-tune their aim for optimal performance on the range or in defensive scenarios. The Colt Diamondback’s checkered walnut grip panels provide a comfortable and secure hold, facilitating superior control and recoil management during firing. Combined with its smooth and crisp trigger pull, characteristic of Colt revolvers, the Diamondback offers shooters a seamless shooting experience, enabling precise shot placement with minimal effort. Overall, the Nickel Colt Diamondback in .38 Special epitomizes the legacy of Colt’s revolver heritage, embodying a perfect blend of craftsmanship, performance, and aesthetic appeal. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.

Colt Diamondback .38 Special CTG 4” Revolver with Nickel Finish
Colt Diamondback .38 Special CTG 4” Revolver with Nickel Finish