Colt Cobra 1st-Issue .22 LR Revolver, 3-Inch Barrel, 1973 Production
This 1973 Colt Cobra 1st-Issue stands out as one of the rare .22 LR variants of the famed D-frame snake series. Built with a lightweight aluminum alloy frame and a tapered 3-inch carbon-steel barrel, it delivers a six-shot capacity in a package that tips the scale at just 16 oz. Collectors prize these early Cobras for their limited production numbers, original fixed front sight, and full-length ejector stroke—features all present on this example.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
This revolver exhibits minor scratching, scuffing, and small blemishes consistent with careful range use, but the finish retains strong color and the mechanics remain sound.
What’s Included
- Colt Cobra 1st-Issue .22 LR revolver
The Cobra’s alloy frame wears the correct dark anodized finish, contrasting with the high-polish blue on the carbon-steel barrel and cylinder. The exposed ejector rod clears .22 LR cases fully thanks to the 3-inch barrel—a practical touch uncommon on compact D-frames. Checkered walnut grips with Colt medallions provide a secure hold and preserve the revolver’s factory look.
Manufactured during Colt’s transition period, this gun combines an early-pattern skinny barrel with a post-1971 serial range, illustrating the company’s practice of using remaining .22 barrels before ending production. The external hammer supports both double-action and single-action fire, while the smooth, service-width trigger offers a consistent pull.
Fixed sights consist of a fixed front blade integral to the barrel and a square-notch groove milled into the serrated top strap. This original sight picture is highly regarded by collectors seeking unaltered examples. With its low production numbers, lightweight construction, and rimfire chambering, this Cobra occupies a unique niche among Colt snake guns.