The Colt King Cobra 3-inch is a powerful and refined revolver from Colt Manufacturing, a company known for producing some of the most reliable and iconic handguns in history. Originally introduced in 1986, the King Cobra quickly gained a reputation for its durability, accuracy, and smooth action, making it a favorite among revolver enthusiasts. The modern 3-inch barrel variant brings the perfect balance of compactness and firepower, making it an excellent choice for self-defense, concealed carry, and range shooting.
Chambered in .357 Magnum with a six-round cylinder, the Colt King Cobra showcases the robust stainless-steel construction and superior craftsmanship that define Colt Manufacturing. The full underlug barrel design helps mitigate recoil, while the enhanced trigger system ensures a smooth and consistent pull. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a first-time revolver owner, the Colt King Cobra 3-inch delivers the reliability and performance expected from a Colt revolver, making it a standout option in today’s handgun market.
Colt King Cobra: Background & First Impressions
The moment I first laid my hands on the Colt King Cobra 3-inch, I knew this Colt Manufacturing revolver was something special—its compact yet sturdy build provides an ideal balance of power and control, while the grip feels natural, offering a secure hold for precise shooting. The origin of the Colt King Cobra traces back to the 1980s, when Colt Manufacturing developed a revolver that could handle the power of .357 Magnum while maintaining the smooth action and refined craftsmanship the brand is known for. After a brief hiatus, the King Cobra was reintroduced, with the 3-inch barrel variant emerging as a top choice for self-defense and carry applications.
Built as a .357 Magnum revolver, the King Cobra features a stainless steel construction, a full underlug barrel for recoil control, and an enhanced trigger system for a smoother shooting experience. While Colt pistols have long been known for their reliability and performance, the King Cobra proves that Colt revolvers are just as refined, offering exceptional accuracy and durability.
COLT KING COBRA REVOLVER - SPECIFICATIONS
Now, let's explore the fundamental characteristics that distinguish this remarkable revolver:
- Model Name: Colt King Cobra
- Caliber: .357 Magnum
- Action: Revolving Chamber
- Weight (Unloaded): 28 oz.
- Capacity: 6 rounds
- Overall Length: 8 inches
- Barrel Length: 3 inches
- Frame Material: Stainless steel
- Safety: transfer bar
- Sights: Brass bead front sight, adjustable rear sight
- MSRP: $899
COLT KING COBRA 357 REVIEW - PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
Now, let's talk performance. I had the pleasure of taking the 3-inch POST 2019 version chambered in .357 Magnum for a spin, and let me tell you, it packs a punch. The recoil is manageable, allowing for quick follow-up shots, and the accuracy is on point. Whether you're hitting the range or out in the field, the Colt King Cobra delivers.
UNLEASHING THE COLT KING COBRA'S PINPOINT PERFORMANCE
The 3-inch barrel length strikes a perfect balance between compactness and accuracy. It's easy to maneuver, making it ideal for both concealed carry and close-quarters shooting scenarios. Plus, the .357 Magnum chambering ensures you have more than enough stopping power when it counts.
But what really impressed me about the Colt King Cobra 357's performance was its versatility. Whether I was engaging targets at close range or stretching out to longer distances, this revolver remained consistently accurate and reliable. The smooth trigger pull made it easy to maintain accuracy, even during rapid-fire sequences.
Speaking of accuracy, the Colt King Cobra's sights deserve a mention. The brass bead front sight provides a clear, easy-to-acquire sight picture, while the adjustable rear sight allows for precise adjustments to dial in your shots. Whether you prefer a traditional sight picture or something more customized to your liking, the Colt King Cobra's sights deliver.
COLT 357 MAGNUM KING COBRA ERGONOMICS - COMFORT MEETS CONTROL
And let's not forget about the ergonomics. The Colt King Cobra's grip feels like it was custom-made for my hand. It provides a comfortable and secure hold, even under recoil, allowing for consistent shot placement. Whether I was shooting one-handed or two-handed, the grip provided excellent control and confidence.
Overall, I couldn't be more impressed with the Colt King Cobra's performance. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or new to the world of revolvers, this firearm delivers the performance and reliability you need to confidently handle any situation.
COLT KING COBRA REVIEW - VERSATILITY AND APPLICATIONS
CHAMBERING OPTIONS
The Colt King Cobra is not just a one-trick pony. Whether you're looking for a reliable self-defense option, a precision target shooter, or even a trusty sidekick for hunting trips, this revolver can handle it all. And with its chambering options, including the powerful .357 Magnum and the versatile .22LR, you have plenty of choices to suit your needs.
COMPARING BARREL LENGTHS
While I had the pleasure of testing the 3-inch model, it's worth mentioning the other barrel lengths available. The 2-inch, 4-inch, and 6-inch versions offer their own advantages, whether it's increased accuracy or improved sight radius. It all comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a revolver.
If you're looking for a balance between compactness and accuracy, the 4-inch model might be the way to go. It offers a slightly longer sight radius compared to the 3-inch version, making it easier to achieve precise shots at longer distances.
On the other hand, if you prioritize maximum accuracy and velocity, the 6-inch model is worth considering. Its longer barrel provides increased muzzle velocity and better stability, especially when shooting at extended ranges. The 2-inch barrel version, on the other hand, excels in concealability and close-quarters shooting, making it an ideal choice for personal defense and carry purposes.
GRIP OPTIONS
One thing I love about the Colt King Cobra 3" is the option to customize your grip. With aftermarket Colt King Cobra grips available, you can find the perfect fit for your hand size and shooting preferences. I opted for a textured grip that provided excellent control and comfort during extended shooting sessions.
The grip you choose can significantly impact your shooting experience. Whether you prefer a rubberized grip for added recoil absorption or a more aggressive texture for enhanced control, there's a grip option out there to suit your needs.
SPECIAL EDITIONS AND VARIANTS
If you're a collector or just someone who appreciates a unique firearm, you'll be pleased to know that there are special editions and variants of the Colt King Cobra available. These models often feature enhancements or cosmetic changes that set them apart from the standard version. While they may come at a premium, they're sure to turn heads at the range.
I've had the opportunity to handle a few special edition Colt King Cobra models, and they never fail to impress. From custom finishes to upgraded sights and grips, these variants take an already exceptional revolver to the next level.
COLT KING COBRA 3 INCH REVIEW - MAINTENANCE AND CARE
Like any firearm, proper maintenance and care are essential to keep your Colt King Cobra.357 running smoothly. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure reliability and longevity, whether you're putting a few rounds downrange or storing it for future use. Trust me, a little TLC goes a long way when it comes to firearms.
I make it a point to clean my Colt King Cobra after every range session to keep it in top condition. A thorough inspection of all moving parts and a light coat of oil is all it takes to keep this revolver performing flawlessly.
THE COLT KING COBRA FAQ
The Colt King Cobra is available in several calibers, including .357 Magnum, .38 Special, and .22LR.
Yes, the Colt King Cobra is available in .357 Magnum caliber, renowned for its power and performance in revolver platforms.
The Colt King Cobra measures approximately 8 inches in overall length. It features a barrel length of 3 inches and weighs approximately 28 ounces when unloaded.
The primary difference between the Colt Cobra and King Cobra lies in their size, capacity, and intended use. The Colt Cobra is a compact revolver typically chambered in .38 Special or .38 Special +P, designed for concealed carry and personal defense. In contrast, the Colt King Cobra is larger and heavier, often chambered in .357 Magnum, providing increased firepower and versatility. Additionally, the King Cobra generally offers a higher ammunition capacity compared to the Cobra.
CONCLUSION - WHY THE COLT KING COBRA 3" REIGNS SUPREME IN REVOLVER REALMS
The Colt King Cobra is a true gem in the world of revolvers. Its combination of elite craftsmanship, versatility, and performance make it a standout choice for shooters of all levels. Whether you opt for the 3-inch post-2019 version as I did or explore other barrel lengths and chamberings, you can't go wrong with this revolver. And hey, don't forget to pick up a Colt King Cobra holster to complete your setup and keep your new favorite firearm safe and secure.
