Description
Item Description
python king cobra anaconda diamondback
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this renowned double-action revolver for a penny-start auction; this is the Colt Cobra Second Issue!
The Cobra is known for being the first gun that Colt named after a snake, which led to the ICONIC series of "Snake" pistols made by Colt!
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Cobra Second Issue
Serial: F96519
Date of Manufacture: 1974
Caliber: .38 Special
Finish: Nickel
Barrel Length: 2"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Ramp Front with Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
In the years following World War II, Colt emerged as one of the first American firearms manufacturers to embrace the new generation of lightweight alloys often dubbed "Space Age materials." This technological shift was driven by post-war innovation and the military’s success using lightweight metals in aircraft and equipment. Colt’s first major foray into this space came with the introduction of the aluminum-framed Colt Commander in 1949, a groundbreaking semi-automatic pistol that set the tone for the company’s future developments. Building on that momentum, Colt released the Cobra in 1950—its second aluminum-frame firearm and the first revolver to feature the lightweight "Coltalloy" frame. Mechanically identical to the venerable Detective Special, the Cobra featured an aluminum frame, side plate, and cylinder crane, while retaining steel components such as the barrel and internal mechanisms. The Cobra’s introduction also marked a branding milestone: it was the first Colt revolver named after a snake, launching a legendary line that would include iconic models like the Python, Diamondback, and Anaconda. Marketed as a compact, lightweight carry revolver, the Cobra became popular among law enforcement and civilians alike, with configurations ranging from 2-inch to rare 5-inch barrels and calibers including .38 Special, .22 LR, and .38 New Police.
Model: Cobra Second Issue
Serial: F96519
Date of Manufacture: 1974
Caliber: .38 Special
Finish: Nickel
Barrel Length: 2"
Optics/Sights: Fixed Ramp Front with Frame Notch Rear
Stock/Grips: Checkered Walnut
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
In the years following World War II, Colt emerged as one of the first American firearms manufacturers to embrace the new generation of lightweight alloys often dubbed "Space Age materials." This technological shift was driven by post-war innovation and the military’s success using lightweight metals in aircraft and equipment. Colt’s first major foray into this space came with the introduction of the aluminum-framed Colt Commander in 1949, a groundbreaking semi-automatic pistol that set the tone for the company’s future developments. Building on that momentum, Colt released the Cobra in 1950—its second aluminum-frame firearm and the first revolver to feature the lightweight "Coltalloy" frame. Mechanically identical to the venerable Detective Special, the Cobra featured an aluminum frame, side plate, and cylinder crane, while retaining steel components such as the barrel and internal mechanisms. The Cobra’s introduction also marked a branding milestone: it was the first Colt revolver named after a snake, launching a legendary line that would include iconic models like the Python, Diamondback, and Anaconda. Marketed as a compact, lightweight carry revolver, the Cobra became popular among law enforcement and civilians alike, with configurations ranging from 2-inch to rare 5-inch barrels and calibers including .38 Special, .22 LR, and .38 New Police.
Throughout its production life from 1950 to 1981, the Colt Cobra underwent a series of design changes and finish options that reflected both evolving user needs and manufacturing realities, including the notable impact of the Colt workers' strike in the 1980s. Early Cobras came with Colt’s proprietary "Coltwood" plastic grips, eventually transitioning through a series of grip styles including checkered walnut with medallions and later combat grips. Finishes ranged from a striking bright blue or nickel to an anodized blue-black aluminum for the frame, ensuring a visual match between the steel and alloy parts. During the labor unrest in the early 1980s, Colt also released a matte black, unpolished version with smooth grips, now a rare variation. The most substantial update came in 1973 with the launch of the Second Issue Cobra. This version featured a heavy shrouded barrel to protect the ejector rod, a long ramp front sight for faster target acquisition, and updated combat grips that offered improved ergonomics by enclosing more of the grip frame. Importantly, this iteration was the only Cobra version officially rated by Colt for +P .38 Special ammunition—albeit with a limitation of 1,000 rounds before inspection was recommended. These design evolutions, along with Colt’s willingness to innovate with new materials while maintaining trusted mechanics, helped cement the Cobra’s place in the pantheon of classic American revolvers.
Contents:
This example will ship with the Colt presentation case and key as pictured above!
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
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About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
