Colt Cobra 1965 .38 Special No Reserve

This Colt Cobra revolver is chambered in .38 special and according to Colt’s serial number lookup was produced in 1965. The Cobra was the first of the lightweight revolvers to come from Colt. Although it is a serpent, it’s not to be confused with that of the King Cobra. Cobra production started in 1950, shortly after the war and had similar characteristics to the ever-popular Detective Special, the primary difference was the Cobra boasts 15-ounce frame aluminum frame. Lighter than the competition, and the ability to carry the 6th round allowed it to stay in good graces with public, and off duty officers.

This Colt Cobra is fitted with a 2” barrel, wears checkered walnut grips and features a grooved trigger. The finish is shown in good condition, micro surface scratches can be noticed on both sides of the frame, with some minor pitting on the barrel and cylinder. The variance in finish color can be seen from material difference in the frame and steel portions of the Cobra. There is edge silvering throughout, while the edges still retain sharpness.

The markings on the left side of the pistol display sharp edges and are easily read. “COBRA” over “.38 SPECIAL CTG.” on the barrel and the rampant Colt on the frame above the grip. The revolver hides the serial match both crane and frame “159932-LW”. There is a VP in triangle on the left-side trigger guard bow and an “H” on the frame behind the trigger. Lightly etched on the frame under the cylinder reads “GM 12-24-74″ the origin of this marking is unknown. The right side of the barrel reads “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.”

The leading edges of this Colt Cobra show some silvering, this is focused on the muzzle. There is some slight surface pitting on the barrels right side around Colt’s patent.  The front sight shows sharp edges with minor silvering on the leading edge, and sharp serrations on the ramped back side. The ejector rod head shows sharp knurling with common wear patterns on the ejector rod.

The flush type rampant Colt Medallions are bright with no discolorations framed at the top of the grips. The walnut grips differ in color from side to side, one showing brighter than the other, both showing similar levels of wear. No major chips or handling marks, only slight flattening of the checkers near the butt of each side.

Overall, this Colt Cobra shows its age but does it well. The top strap, front strap and but show minimal superficial handling marks. For a first-generation Colt Cobra, this would be a great addition to any Colt revolver or .38 special collection, with a possible unknown back story worth digging into based on the markings under the cylinder.