The Kodiak, introduced in 2024, is based on the company’s iconic Anaconda design, which was brought back to the market in 2021. In fact, the Kodiak, like the Anaconda, is also somewhat of a reintroduction, too. Back in the early 1990s, Colt produced a small number of Kodiak revolvers, which were based on the first-generation Anacondas. Those revolvers were outfitted with 6-inch barrels, though, and for this new generation of Kodiak revolvers, Colt chose to add a carry-ready, 4.25-inch variant, which is what we have on the range today.
There are a few key features that distinguish the new Kodiak models from the second-generation Anacondas. The first and possibly most noticeable feature is the inclusion of an unfluted cylinder. Some will say this helps in the field, as there are fewer gaps between the topstrap and the frame for debris to get caught up in. However, what it also does is add a whole lot of heft and weight to the gun, which helps to absorb the energy from hot .44 Magnum defensive loads. Unloaded, this revolver weighs in at 48 ozs., so there’s plenty of mass here to counteract recoil forces.
But Colt wasn’t done dealing with recoil yet. Just behind the muzzle, there are a series of six ports, three on either side of the classically styled barrel rib. When the revolver is fired, propellant gas exits these six ports and is directed upward, which pushes the muzzle of the revolver down while recoil forces are causing the gun to roll in the hand. The result is less muzzle flip and reduced felt recoil for the shooter. Colt’s internal testing of the Kodiak compared to a similarly configured Anaconda without the ports showed that the compensated barrel loses only about 100 f.p.s. on average compared to an unported barrel.
Aside from those features, most of the Kodiak shares features with Colt’s second-generation Anaconda. The 4.25-inch barrel includes a full underlug that protects the knurled ejector rod and also adds a bit of weight on the front of the gun to counteract recoil. In true Colt fashion, swinging the cylinder out requires pulling the cylinder release latch to the rear. Inside the enlarged trigger guard, you’ll find a curved trigger shoe that’s part of the refined lockwork Colt introduced on its next-generation “snake guns,” which offers a smooth double-action pull. A well-textured, wide hammer spur provides the opportunity to thumb the hammer back for a crisp, clean, single-action let-off.
When it comes to a range experience, anything chambered in .44 Magnum generally leaves some kind of mark. That said, given the Colt Kodiak’s weight and ported barrel, this revolver actually turned out to not be the handful that many magnums can be. When downloaded with .44 Spl. cartridges, it turned out to be a downright sweetheart, making this a platform you can dial up or down to meet whatever needs you have. The comfortable Hogue Monogrip was comfortable in the hand and also helped absorb recoil.
Colt’s ubiquitous red-ramp front sight offered a clear sight picture, but a setscrew on the front side of the barrel rib means this sight can be easily removed and replaced with an aftermarket option of your choosing. Colt’s adjustable rear sight is fine, but worthy upgrades exist, like Wilson Combat’s Battlesight. For those seeking a field handgun capable of everything up to and including bear defense, the Colt Kodiak offers plenty of packable power.
