Colt Diamondback .38 Special Revolver – 4" Barrel, Brushed Nickel, 1981 Production
Produced in 1981, this Colt Diamondback pairs the sought-after D-frame “snake gun” profile with a rare factory brushed-nickel finish. Its 4-inch barrel carries the Diamondback’s signature ventilated rib and full under-lug, while adjustable target sights, a wide target hammer, and serrated trigger round out a feature set prized by shooters and collectors alike. Matching serial numbers on the frame and crane confirm factory integrity, and the revolver ships in its original Colt woodgrain box.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent – Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling – Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor, superficial scratches and small blemishes are visible on the barrel and frame under close inspection; none affect operation or appearance from a normal viewing distance.
What’s Included
- Colt factory woodgrain cardboard box with matching serial-number end label
Introduced in 1966 and discontinued in 1988, the Diamondback represents Colt’s effort to bring Python-style refinements to the compact D-frame. This 1981 example retains those hallmark features: a ventilated rib rarely seen on revolvers of this size, a full under-lug for optimal balance, and finely adjustable target sights.
The brushed-nickel finish provides a distinct silver tone that contrasts nicely with the checkered walnut grips bearing recessed Colt medallions. Nickel Diamondbacks were produced in far fewer numbers than their blued counterparts, adding collector appeal.
Chambered in .38 Special, the six-shot cylinder offers smooth double-action and precise single-action operation thanks to Colt’s hand-fitted lockwork. The wide target hammer and serrated-face trigger aid controlled staging and crisp releases.
Colt’s serial number S84703 dates this revolver to 1980–1981. Matching numbers on the crane verify original assembly, an important detail for investment-grade Colt wheel guns.