Make: Colt

Model: Diamondback

Serial Number: D36436

Year of Manufacture: 1969

Caliber: .38 Special

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

Barrel Length: 4", Vent-Rib

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated, ramped blade integral to the rib. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation in a base pinned to the topstrap.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered black rubber Pachmayr Presentation grips with gold-colored Colt medallions. The grips show minor handling wear with only a few light marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no rips or tears. Overall, the grips are in Fine-plus condition as not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates about 9/10.

Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 95% of its metal finish. There is light wear at the muzzle on each side. There is infrequent minor oxidation, mostly on the side faces of the hammer. The action shows light operational wear. There are a few other minor marks. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about 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: This pistol comes in a two-piece cardboard faux-wood Colt box with model-matching label, but with a non-matching serial number hand-written on the bottom of the tray portion.

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. This revolver retains about 95% of its finish with replacement Pachmayr grips, sporting a nice bore and solid cylinder lockup. This will make for as beautiful a display piece as it would a shooter. Those familiar with the Python line understand the accuracy these revolvers are capable of, this one should prove to be no different. With its early production and high condition, it should also be a pleasing find for the collectors. Please see our photos and good luck!