Colt Cobra: A Celebrated Self-Defense Revolver

by
posted on January 19, 2021
** 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. **
colt-cobra.jpg

The first prototypes of Colt’s Cobra line of double-action revolvers were produced in 2016. American Rifleman’s review last August explains, “The design is a slightly larger J-Frame-size compact revolver made of stainless steel. Chambered for .38 Spl., the Cobra features a 2" barrel that is +P rated for the .38 Spl. cartridge. The barrel is also fully lugged to house and protect the cylinder's ejector rod.”

Combine the legendary “Colt” name and quality—at a time when interest in concealed carry were reaching record proportions—and response to the first DA revolver to come out of the factory in some time was enthusiastic. In 2019, the latest figures available, it was one of the most popular revolvers in sales volume among FFLs using the services of GunBroker.com.

Colt Cobras are available in six different models, each with a six-round capacity and MSRPs running from $699 to $1,299. The entire line is chambered for .38 Spl. and the handguns measure either 7.2 or 7.25 inches long, depending on model and corresponding barrel length, which is 2 or 2.1 inches.

Two versions come in at the lowest price point. One has a matte-stainless steel finish and comes with Hogue Overmolded rubber grips. Sights are fiber optic up front, trench at the rear. The same grips come on the second budget-friendly version, but the finish is the company’s 38 Special look and barrel length goes to 2.1 instead of 2. A brass bead serves as the front sight.

Colt revolver fans will be happy to know Cobras are also available with wood grips, one with and another without the company’s inset medallion. There’s also a Night Cobra with an Ion Bond Stainless Steel finish and night sights. Its MSRP is $899.

At $1,299, the Bright Cobra has a Mirror Polished Stainless Steel finish, brass bead up front and trench to the rear for sights. The model’s black composite grips come with the Colt logo.

Latest

Cz P10 Ported Review 1
Cz P10 Ported Review 1

Review: CZ USA P10 Ported

CZ expanded its popular line of P10 handguns with a specially configured model that features integral barrel ports just behind the muzzle to aid in recoil management.

Keeping The Wilderness Quiet: Bergara's BTi30 Suppressor

Bergara joined the growing crowd of suppressor manufacturers in 2026 with its BTi30 design.

New for 2026: Ruger American Rifle Generation II Scout

Ruger adds a Scout rifle option to its Generation II American rifle.

New for 2026: Springfield Armory SA-35 Polished Pistol

Springfield Armory’s homage to the Hi Power now has an even better-looking option.

New for 2026: Franchi Momentum Mule Rifle

Franchi’s do-it-all MULE rifle is designed as a general-purpose carbine.

New for 2026: Smith & Wesson Spec Series M&P9 and R Handguns

Smith & Wesson expands its Spec series with the Spec Series IV M&P9 M2.0 Metal Compact pistol and the Spec Series R revolver.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.