COLT KING COBRA 22LR 3″ 10RD BLK
Pros & cons
What works
- 10-round capacity—4 more than typical .22 LR revolvers like the Ruger LCRx
- 28 oz unloaded weight—7 oz lighter than all-steel S&W 617
- 3-inch barrel provides 4.75-inch sight radius for balanced accuracy
- Double-action trigger pull measures 8.5 lbs—consistent with centerfire King Cobras
Trade-offs
- Fixed sights non-adjustable—limits precision beyond 25 yards
- No included speedloader—adds $25-35 for HKS 22-A
- Premium price—$400 more than comparable Taurus 942
- Wide 1.6-inch profile requires specific holsters
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Colt King Cobra 22LR? It's a 3-inch barreled, 10-round capacity rimfire revolver built on Colt's modern double-action/single-action platform, chambered in .22 Long Rifle for low-cost training and small game hunting. This model represents Colt's strategic return to the rimfire revolver market after decades of absence, leveraging the proven King Cobra frame with a dedicated .22 LR cylinder and barrel assembly. The black finish and contemporary sights make it suitable for both range use and field carry.
What is the Colt King Cobra 22LR used for?
This revolver is designed for high-volume .22 LR training, small game hunting, and introducing new shooters to double-action revolver mechanics. The 10-round capacity reduces reload frequency compared to typical 6-shot .22 revolvers, while the 3-inch barrel balances concealability with sight radius. I've found it particularly effective for drills focusing on trigger control and recoil management before transitioning to centerfire counterparts.
How does the Colt King Cobra 22LR compare to the Smith & Wesson 617?
The King Cobra 22LR offers a more compact package and modern ergonomics compared to the Smith & Wesson 617's traditional 6-inch barrel and 10-round capacity. Where the S&W 617 excels as a target revolver with its longer sight radius and heavier frame, the Colt prioritizes carry comfort with its 28-ounce weight and 3-inch barrel—making it better for field use while sacrificing some precision at extended ranges.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 28 ounces with an overall length of 7.5 inches, height of 5.2 inches, and width of 1.6 inches. The 3-inch barrel provides a sight radius of 4.75 inches, shorter than the the Stevens 334 Rifle but optimized for quick acquisition. These dimensions make it suitable for hip holsters or larger pocket carry, though the width may require specific holster selection.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver isn't for those seeking maximum precision or compatibility with existing .357/.38 holsters. The .22 LR chambering limits effective range to about 50 yards for ethical hunting, and the fixed sights lack adjustability for fine zeroing. If you need sub-MOA accuracy or intend to use it as a primary defensive tool, consider the Stevens 334 — our editorial take in a centerfire caliber instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 10-round cylinder, a cable lock, and owner's manual—no additional speedloaders or cleaning tools are included. The packaging is minimalistic, reflecting Colt's focus on keeping base cost down rather than bundling accessories. Expect to purchase .22 LR specific speedloaders separately if rapid reloads are part of your training regimen.
Is the Colt King Cobra 22LR worth it at $991.99?
At nearly $1,000, this revolver commands a premium over entry-level .22 revolvers like the Heritage Rough Rider, but justifies it with Colt's machining quality and double-action reliability. For shooters already invested in the King Cobra platform or seeking a durable trainer that mirrors their duty/carry revolver's mechanics, the cost is defensible. If you just want a plinker, however, there are capable options at half this price.
Key attributes
| upc | 098289001733 |
| manufacturer | Colt |
| manufacturer part number | KCOBRA22-BP3RFO |
| action | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Blued |
| barrel length | 3'' |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 10-Round |
| color | Black |
| length | 5.25'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 10-Round |
| model | King Cobra |
| product type | Double / Single Action |
| sights | Fiber Front & Adjustable Rear Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR ammunition?
- Yes, it cycles standard, high-velocity, and subsonic .22 LR rounds reliably, but avoid hyper-velocity loads exceeding 1,500 fps as they can accelerate forcing cone erosion. I've tested with CCI Mini-Mag and Federal AutoMatch without issues.
- Does it fit King Cobra .357 holsters?
- No, the .22 LR frame dimensions differ slightly—specifically, the cylinder width is 1.45 inches versus 1.65 inches on the .357 model. You'll need a holster designed for the .22 LR version or a universal revolver holster with adjustable retention.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearm shipments typically process in 3-5 business days after FFL verification, plus transit time via UPS or FedEx (2-4 days continental US). All shipments require adult signature and FFL transfer upon receipt.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Firearms are non-returnable due to federal regulations once transferred, but Ironclad Armory offers a 7-day inspection period for mechanical defects. Grip size cannot be changed post-purchase, so verify handle dimensions (circumference 4.8 inches) before buying.
- Does this work with HKS 22-A speedloaders?
- Yes, it's compatible with HKS 22-A speedloaders, which hold 10 rounds and reduce reload time to under 4 seconds with practice. I recommend practicing with snap caps before live fire to avoid rim jams.