Editors’ Picks 2019: Colt King Cobra Revolver

by
posted on March 19, 2019
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
edpicks2.jpg

COLT’s latest “snake gun” is the resurrected King Cobra, featuring a heavy-duty stainless steel frame complete with a full-underlug, 3" barrel and a six-round, fluted cylinder. It’s the first new .357 Mag. in 20 years from the company that invented the revolver. Upgrades include an enlarged trigger guard and a user-interchangeable brass-bead front sight. Even better, this hard-hitter isn’t punishing to shoot thanks to Colt’s innovative LL2 spring trigger that produces an in-line hammer drop, along with form-fitting Hogue Overmolded rubber stocks with finger grooves. No doubt shootability is also aided by the fact the new King weighs 28 ozs., and while that’s a little heavy by today’s carry-gun standards, it conceals nicely. True Snake Gun fans will naturally see parallels to first-generation King Cobras from the 1980s-’90s, but given the new King’s specs and bright polish, it also conjures up the very rare nickel-finish Combat Python. colt.com

Latest

45 ACP M1911
45 ACP M1911

Myths & Misunderstandings About the “Modern Fighting 1911”

The Colt Model 1911 pistol and its derivatives are among the most iconic military handguns ever made. But in 2026, does the M1911 still hold up as a quality defensive arm?

Heir Apparent: The CZ 600+ Carbine

CZ's 527 action was long a popular option scaled around compact cartridges like the .223 Remington and the 7.62x39 mm. Now, the new CZ 600+ Carbine brings that same concept to the company's new CZ 600 series.

I Carry: Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard in an ANR Design Holster

In our latest "I Carry" setup, we're featuring the Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard in an ANR Design holster, and we've got a Streamlight EDC flashlight to round out our kit.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 23, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

NRA Announces Nominating Committee & Petition Nominees for the 2027 NRA Board of Directors Election

The National Rifle Association has announced the official list of all 33 candidates nominated for the 2027 mail ballot election of directors, whether by the Nominating Committee, by petition of the members or both.

Saltstone Integrator Rifle Carry System & Modular Hunting Vest: The Cure for The Common Sling

Among a hunter’s most basic equipment is their sling. The Saltstone Integrator Rifle Carry System and Modular Hunting Vest seeks to revolutionize this.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.