Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback

Serial Number: R18630

Year of Manufacture: Circa, 1978

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 left side plate has Colt’s rampant logo, the left front of the trigger guard is marked “VP” in a triangle. The crane and crane cut have the serial number, the cut is also marked “T”.

Barrel Length: 4” with Full Underlug & Ventilated Rib

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a finely 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 blade that is adjustable for windage and elevation.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a pebble-textured Hogue Monogrip with finger grooves. There is faint handling wear. The grip is free from any notable damages. The grip rates in about Excellent overall condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blued

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 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operation wear. There is a thin turn line on the cylinder that has not gone through the finish. The front of the barrel has thinning and there are small scratches throughout. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in Very Good to Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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: Soft case.

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 than its predecessor. This revolver retains about 97% of its finish in Very Good-Fine condition, sporting a bright, sharp bore and damage free stocks. The ‘positive lock’ action provides solid cylinder lockup, with smooth double and single action trigger pulls. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different but in its high condition it will certainly attract collectors.