
It was initially offered in just two barrel lengths: 2.5- and four-inches. Through its 22 years in production, the Diamondback had gone through very few changes. The one and only difference is that the pull on the Diamondback in double action is shorter since the whole gun is smaller overall. It has that “buttery” feel that is so characteristic of the Python. The trigger is phenomenally smooth in either double or single action. And, where you could say it is better, because it is chambered for a lighter load, the Diamondback is less susceptible to wear than the Python, so it’s less likely one will need to make any premature visits to a gunsmith. The cylinder locks up so there is no ‘play’ in between the chamber and the barrel. The barrel was bored with a very slight taper towards the muzzle. The Diamondback, like the Python, is exceptionally accurate for a number of reasons. Also like the Python, the Diamondback has excellent target sights – pinned in front (but adjustable) and fully adjustable in the rear. The vent rib on top of the barrel, as well as the full-lug under, contributes to the Python-look as well as to a comparable shooting experience. The nickel plating was also brilliant and durable, much more so than other guns of that era. The bluing was very deep and rich, and has proven to hold a luster even after 40 to 50 years. And the design had more than a little hand-fitting and tender loving care from craftsmen at the height of their skill in the Colt Custom Shop.īased on the smaller “D” frame, the Diamondback was offered in Colt’s Royal Blue or nickel-plating, and both finishes were incredible. The Diamondback has an almost identical design and was built to the same exact standards of quality as the Colt Python, what some consider the “Cadillac” of revolvers.

22 Long Rifle (and for a limited time in. Then, about a decade later, in 1966, the Diamondback was introduced very much like a baby Python and when it came out it was also available in. 357 Magnum chambering, so plans for a dedicated. The reason is, with the Python, Colt decided to go with the more powerful. The Colt Diamondback is, in some ways, what the Python started out to be: a premier. “It’s a baby Python!” Well, no, it’s not, but it’s close – damned close – and you would be forgiven by almost anyone who knows anything about these guns for thinking so.
