Colt King Cobra Carry .357 Mag 2″ 6-Round Stainless
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 28 ounces—lighter than many full-size revolvers like the S&W Model 686 (40 ounces), enhancing carry comfort.
- Stainless-steel construction resists corrosion and wear, rated for over 10,000 rounds with proper maintenance.
- Six-round cylinder capacity provides one more shot than typical five-shot compact revolvers, increasing defensive utility.
Trade-offs
- Recoil is stout with .357 Magnum loads due to the 28-ounce weight—may be uncomfortable for shooters with smaller hands or low tolerance.
- No night sights included—adds $100-$150 for aftermarket installation, a common oversight in this price range.
- Limited aftermarket support compared to Glock or S&W models—fewer holster and accessory options readily available.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Colt King Cobra Carry? It is a compact stainless-steel revolver chambered in .357 Magnum with a 2-inch barrel and six-round cylinder, designed for concealed carry and personal defense. Built by Colt, this model incorporates durable materials and ergonomic features to balance power and practicality in a daily-use firearm. Its design emphasizes reliability and straightforward operation, making it a go-to choice for shooters prioritizing a no-fail tool in high-stakes scenarios.
What is the Colt King Cobra Carry used for?
The Colt King Cobra Carry is primarily used for concealed carry and personal defense due to its compact size and powerful .357 Magnum caliber. It handles well in close-quarters situations, with the Hogue overmolded rubber grips enhancing control during rapid fire. Its stainless-steel construction ensures longevity, even in humid or adverse conditions.
How does the Colt King Cobra Carry compare to the S&W Model 686?
The Colt King Cobra Carry offers a more compact and lightweight option compared to the Smith & Wesson Model 686, which typically features a longer barrel and heavier frame. The King Cobra weighs 28 ounces and has a 2-inch barrel, making it easier to conceal, while the Model 686—often with a 4-inch barrel and weighing around 40 ounces—excels in range accuracy but is bulkier for everyday carry. For shooters prioritizing portability without sacrificing power, the King Cobra is superior.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Colt King Cobra Carry weighs 28 ounces (794 grams) and measures 7.25 inches in overall length with a barrel length of 2 inches. Its cylinder width is 1.45 inches, and the height with grips is approximately 4.75 inches, fitting comfortably in most holsters designed for compact revolvers.
Who is this NOT for?
This revolver is not for beginners or those sensitive to recoil, as the .357 Magnum round generates significant kick in a lightweight frame. It's also unsuitable for long-range shooting or competition use where longer barrels and higher capacities, like those found in the Stevens 334 Rifle the .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic, are preferred. If you need a firearm for hunting or extended range sessions, consider alternatives with more stability and sight radius.
What's in the box?
The box includes the Colt King Cobra Carry revolver, one six-round stainless-steel cylinder, a cable lock for safety, and owner's manual. It does not include a holster or cleaning kit, so buyers should budget for those accessories separately, typically adding $50-$100 to initial setup costs.
Is the Colt King Cobra Carry worth it at $991.99?
At $991.99, the Colt King Cobra Carry offers good value for experienced shooters seeking a reliable, compact .357 Magnum with premium materials. Its stainless-steel construction and Colt's reputation justify the price, though budget-conscious buyers might prefer a used model or a polymer alternative. If durability and brand heritage matter, this is a solid investment; for plinking or casual use, consider more affordable options like the Stevens series.
Key attributes
| upc | 098289001313 |
| manufacturer | Colt |
| manufacturer part number | KCOBRA-SB2BB-S |
| action | SA/DA Revolver |
| atf type | Revolver |
| barrel finish | Brushed Stainless |
| barrel length | 2'' |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 6 |
| length | 15.2500 |
| model | King Cobra |
| package height | 2.7 |
| package width | 8.7 |
| product type | Revolver |
| shipping weight | 3.7 |
| sights | Front Blade |
| sights type | FIBER OPTIC |
| color | Silver |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the Colt King Cobra Carry is fully compatible with .38 Special rounds, offering versatility and lower recoil options. This allows shooters to practice with cheaper ammunition, typically costing $0.30-$0.50 per round compared to .357 Magnum's $0.80-$1.20. Always verify compatibility with +P loads in the manual.
- Does it fit in most IWB holsters?
- Yes, its compact dimensions—7.25 inches long and 1.45 inches wide—make it compatible with many inside-the-waistband holsters from brands like Galco or DeSantis. Standard holsters sized for small-frame revolvers will accommodate it, but check for specific model fits to ensure retention.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically takes 3-7 business days for in-stock items, depending on your location and carrier. Expedited options may reduce this to 2-3 days for an additional fee, but always confirm with the retailer at purchase.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit my hand?
- Returns are generally accepted within 30 days if the firearm is unfired and in original packaging, but policies vary by retailer—some may charge a 15% restocking fee. Check the specific terms before buying, as grips can often be swapped for better ergonomics.