Colt Viper .38 Special DA/SA Revolver, 4 in, Aftermarket Bright Nickel, 6-Shot D-Frame, 1977, Fixed Sights
This original 1970s Colt Viper stands out as a rare, collectible D-frame revolver from 1977 with a lightweight aluminum alloy frame and an aftermarket bright nickel/plated refinish. It features a 4 in steel barrel with an anti-glare serrated rib, a fluted 6-shot cylinder, fixed sights, and oversize, full-coverage checkered walnut target-style stocks. The barrel is rollmarked "VIPER" and ".38 SPECIAL CTG." for model and caliber identification.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The revolver shows notable finish loss, with areas of pitting and rust. The chamber is clean.
What's Included
- Colt Viper .38 Spl. revolver
Built on Colt's lightweight D-frame, this Viper pairs an aluminum alloy frame with a steel barrel and cylinder, all wearing an aftermarket bright nickel/plated refinish. From the factory, Vipers were cataloged in blue with a black-anodized alloy frame matched to a blued steel barrel and cylinder.
The 4 in barrel incorporates a short underlug and a longitudinally serrated, anti-glare rib; the topstrap is matte (non-serrated). Sights are fixed, with a serrated ramp front and a square-notch rear integral to the topstrap, giving a clear and consistent sight picture.
Controls are straightforward and purposeful: a double-action/single-action mechanism with a smooth trigger face and an exposed hammer. The fluted cylinder holds six rounds and complements the revolver's balanced profile.
Attention to detail includes the barrel rollmarks "VIPER" and ".38 SPECIAL CTG." and oversize, full-coverage checkered walnut target-style stocks. Manufactured in 1977 in the USA, this Viper represents a desirable 1970s Colt variant valued by collectors for its configuration and finish.