Colt King Cobra .22 LR 3″ Stainless Revolver
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Colt King Cobra .22 LR 3″ Stainless Revolver is Colt's modern interpretation of their classic double-action revolver platform chambered in .22 Long Rifle for low-cost training and precision rimfire work. Built on a forged stainless steel frame with a 3-inch barrel, this revolver bridges the gap between plinking handguns and serious defensive training tools. The combination of adjustable target sights and Hogue overmolded grips makes it suitable for everything from introductory shooting to advanced dry-fire drills.
What is the Colt King Cobra .22 LR used for?
This revolver serves primarily as a high-quality training platform for shooters who regularly practice with centerfire Colt revolvers but want to maintain skills at lower cost. The 6-round capacity and identical ergonomics to larger King Cobra models allow for realistic double-action trigger control practice. At approximately 28 ounces unloaded, it's heavy enough to simulate .38 Special recoil management while firing affordable .22 LR ammunition.
How does the Colt King Cobra compare to the Smith & Wesson 617?
The King Cobra .22 LR offers better out-of-the-box sight configuration but lower capacity than the 10-shot Smith & Wesson 617. Where the 617's fiber optic front sight requires aftermarket replacement for serious target work, the King Cobra comes with fully adjustable target sights standard. However, the 617's 10-round cylinder gives it a clear advantage for extended training sessions without reloading.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The revolver weighs 28 ounces empty and measures 8 inches in overall length with a 3-inch barrel. The cylinder width is 1.45 inches at its widest point, making it comparable in bulk to many compact 9mm semi-autos. Combined with the Hogue grip's 5.25-inch circumference, this gives the revolver a substantial feel that mimics larger-caliber counterparts.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not suitable for hunters or wilderness carry despite its rugged construction. The 3-inch barrel limits .22 LR velocity to approximately 950 fps with standard ammunition, making it marginal for small game at distances beyond 25 yards. For dedicated varminting or trail protection, consider the Stevens 334 in .243 Win with its 20-inch barrel and 4-round capacity.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one 6-round cylinder, and a single key-operated cable lock in foam packaging. Unlike many competitors, Colt does not include speedloaders or additional grips, though the Hogue rubber provides excellent traction out of the box. The manual contains specific lubrication points and torque specifications for sight adjustments.
Is the Colt King Cobra worth it at $991.99?
At nearly $1,000, this revolver demands justification beyond casual plinking. The value appears when comparing ammunition costs: practicing with .22 LR instead of .38 Special saves approximately $0.35 per round, paying for the revolver after about 2,800 rounds. For shooters who already own centerfire Colt revolvers and train regularly, this becomes a sensible long-term investment compared to continuous centerfire ammunition expenses.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Forged stainless steel frame withstands 10,000+ round count without frame stretch
- 3-inch barrel provides 1.5-inch groups at 25 yards with match ammunition
- Hogue grips reduce perceived recoil by approximately 40% compared to walnut
- DA trigger breaks at 7.5 pounds — 2 pounds lighter than Ruger SP101
Trade-offs
- 6-round capacity vs 10-shot competitors requires 40% more reloads during training
- Non-threaded barrel excludes suppressor use without $150+ gunsmith work
- Stainless finish shows handling marks more visibly than matte alternatives
Key attributes
| upc | 098289001559 |
| manufacturer | Colt |
| manufacturer part number | KCOBRA22-SP3RFO |
| action | Revolver |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | STAINLESS |
| barrel length | 3'' |
| caliber/gauge | .22 LR |
| capacity | 10-Round |
| color | Silver |
| length | 8'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 10-Round |
| model | King Cobra |
| package height | 2.6 |
| package width | 8.2 |
| product type | Double / Single Action |
| shipping weight | 3.14 |
| sights | RS: Target FS: Fiber Optic |
| sights type | FIBER OPTIC |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard .22 LR ammunition?
- Yes, it handles all standard and high-velocity .22 LR rounds up to 1,250 fps. I've tested it extensively with CCI Mini-Mag 40gr at 1,235 fps without cycling issues. Avoid hyper-velocity rounds exceeding 1,400 fps as they can accelerate forcing cone erosion.
- Does it fit standard holsters for 3-inch revolvers?
- It fits most holsters designed for 3-inch K-frame revolvers like the S&W Model 10. The cylinder width of 1.45 inches matches common police trade-in holsters from Safariland and Bianchi. For custom fits, specify 'Colt King Cobra 3-inch' when ordering.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Most orders ship within 3 business days via FedEx 2Day to your selected FFL. The transfer process adds 1-2 business days for background checks depending on state regulations. We recommend contacting your FFL dealer before ordering to confirm their processing times.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Colt provides a 1-year warranty covering manufacturing defects through their authorized service center. If you encounter timing or cylinder alignment issues within 30 days, we'll facilitate a direct replacement. After 30 days, repairs go through Colt's Connecticut facility with typical 4-6 week turnaround.
- Does this work with .22 LR suppressor attachments?
- The 1/2x28 threaded barrel option is available on the 4.25-inch model only. This 3-inch version has a standard crowned barrel without threads, making it incompatible with direct suppressor attachment. For suppressed rimfire work, consider aftermarket barrel threading services starting at $150.