Colt Diamondback D5160 — .22 LR 6” DA/SA Revolver (1985)
Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.
Final Auction Price: $1,878.00
The Colt Diamondback is one of the most recognizable small-frame double-action revolvers ever produced by Colt. Introduced in 1966, it borrowed heavily from the styling and mechanical refinement of the Colt Python, scaled down into a lighter, handier package. Chambered here in .22 Long Rifle with a 6” vent-rib barrel, this 1985 example presents in Excellent condition and includes its factory box, making it a strong representative of late-production Diamondbacks.
Identification
MMA#: 251110TA004
Make: Colt
Model: Diamondback (D5160)
Serial Number: P79741
Year of Manufacture: 1985
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Double Action / Single Action revolver with swing-out cylinder
Barrel Length: 6” vent rib with full underlug
Sights / Optics
Front sight: serrated ramped blade pinned to the rib above the muzzle.
Rear sight: square notch rear in a fully adjustable mount pinned to the rear of the top strap.
Stock / Grip Configuration & Condition
Two-piece checkered walnut grips with gold-colored Colt medallions. The grips show no significant wear or damage, with sharp checkering and clean borders. Overall grip condition: Excellent.
Finish & Overall Condition
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
This revolver retains approximately 99% of its original blue finish. There are a few faint handling marks on the surfaces and a light turn line on the cylinder. Screw heads remain sharp and undisturbed, and all markings are clear. Overall condition: Excellent.
Bore & Mechanics
Bore Condition: Bright with sharp rifling and faint frosting near the muzzle. Rated 9.5/10.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. Cylinder lockup is tight with no perceptible play when the trigger is pressed. This revolver was not test-fired; it has been cleaned and mechanically inspected, though additional cleaning may be preferred depending on the owner’s standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories
Included is a Colt factory cardboard box without an end label, along with original paperwork including the manual.
Our Assessment
The Diamondback is often described as a scaled-down Python, and that comparison is well earned. Sharing the same vent-rib barrel profile, full underlug, and finely tuned double-action trigger, the Diamondback delivers exceptional balance and accuracy in a smaller frame. Offered in both .38 Special and .22 Long Rifle, the rimfire versions are especially prized for their shootability and collector appeal.
This 1985 Colt Diamondback retains nearly all of its original finish, features a strong bore, excellent lockup, and includes its factory box. It is equally well suited as a display piece in a Colt collection or as a refined rimfire revolver for the range.
The Mt. McCoy Auctions Difference
At Mt. McCoy Auctions we create durable archival records for every firearm we handle, including measured specifications, condition notes, and professional photography. These records provide collectors and researchers with accurate long-term references while ensuring consignors receive knowledgeable handling, national exposure, and secure settlement.
