Handguns/Pistols | RevolverColtSold by Sportsmans Guide

Colt

Colt Viper .357 Magnum 3" Barrel 6 Rounds Blemished

Our editorial team reviews specifications, product data, and field-use information to keep pages accurate.

Half-lug Barrel

Design helps reduce weight and

Forged Stainless-steel

Construction

One-piece Barrel

Recessed target crown

U-notch Rear

Sight and black ramp front

American Walnut

Checkered grips

$899.99
List Price: $999.99
You Save: $100.00 (10%)
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SKU: WX2*0746827

Overview

Built for shooters who want a compact revolver with classic Colt handling, this model pairs a 3-inch barrel with a half-lug design intended to reduce weight and improve concealability. Its forged stainless-steel construction, one-piece barrel with recessed target crown, and U-notch rear sight with black ramp front sight support practical use at the range or in the field. Chambered for .357 Magnum and also accepting .38 Special cartridges, it offers flexibility for those who want a versatile six-round revolver. The blemished designation indicates minor cosmetic flaws only, so buyers should expect appearance imperfections rather than functional differences.

Why Hunters Choose the Colt

Half-lug Barrel

Design helps reduce weight and

Forged Stainless-steel

Construction adds a robust, durable

One-piece Barrel

Includes a recessed target crown

U-notch Rear

Sight and black ramp front

American Walnut

Checkered grips provide a classic,

Key Features

  • Half-lug barrel design helps reduce weight and improve concealability.
  • Forged stainless-steel construction.
  • One-piece barrel with recessed target crown.
  • U-notch rear sight and black ramp front sight for quick target acquisition.
  • American walnut checkered grips.
  • Chambered for .357 Magnum and accepts .38 Special cartridges.

Best Used For

  • Compact revolver setup suited to concealed carry users who want a shorter 3-inch barrel.
  • Appropriate for hunters needing a .357 Magnum revolver that also accepts .38 Special cartridges.
  • Useful for shooters who prefer simple sighting with a U-notch rear and black ramp front sight.
  • Fits buyers comfortable with blemished cosmetic finish in exchange for lower market price.
  • Good for enthusiasts seeking American walnut checkered grips and forged stainless-steel construction.

Specifications

Accepts Cartridges.38 Special
Barrel ConstructionOne-piece barrel
Barrel DesignHalf-lug barrel
Barrel Length3"
Caliber357 Magnum
Capacity6 rounds
ConditionBlemished
CrownRecessed target crown
Frame MaterialForged stainless steel
Front SightBlack ramp front sight
Grip MaterialAmerican walnut
Grip StyleCheckered grips
Rear SightU-Notch rear sight
Rifling1:14 LH 6 groove
Trigger Pull Double Action7-9.5 lbs.
WarrantyFactory warranties still apply

Pros

  • Half-lug barrel design helps reduce weight and improve concealability.
  • Forged stainless-steel construction adds a robust, durable feel.
  • One-piece barrel includes a recessed target crown.
  • U-notch rear sight and black ramp front sight support quick target acquisition.
  • American walnut checkered grips provide a classic, secure hold.
  • Chambered for .357 Magnum and accepts .38 Special cartridges.

Considerations & Trade-offs

  • Blemished examples are described as having only minor cosmetic flaws, so the trade-off is appearance rather than a change in mechanical function.
  • The 3" barrel and half-lug design are oriented toward reduced weight and concealability, which may come with less sight radius than longer-barreled revolvers.
  • Chambering in .357 Magnum with .38 Special compatibility offers flexibility, but users should choose ammunition based on the intended role and recoil preference.
  • The U-notch rear sight and black ramp front sight are set up for quick target acquisition, but they are simpler than more adjustable sighting systems.

Suggested Comparisons

  • Double-action revolvers
  • .357 Magnum revolvers
  • Concealed-carry handguns
  • Stainless-steel revolvers

Suggested Accessories

  • Cleaning kit
  • Pistol case
  • Speedloader
  • Hearing protection

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Colt Viper a blemished model?

It is classified as a blem pistol by Colt QC inspectors due to minor cosmetic flaws, such as a slight shading difference in the finish. The description says these flaws are typically very minor and may not be noticeable without side-by-side comparison.

What cartridges does the Colt Viper chamber?

It is chambered for .357 Magnum and accepts .38 Special cartridges.

What sight setup does this revolver use?

It uses a U-Notch rear sight with a black ramp front sight.

What grip material is listed for this model?

The product lists American walnut checkered grips.

Does the blemished status affect warranty coverage?

According to the product description, all factory warranties still apply.