Colt King Cobra .357 Mag 3" DASA SS vs. Colt Night Cobra .38 SPL 2" DASA: A Detailed Comparison

Key Differences at a Glance

• Caliber and Ammunition:

  • Colt King Cobra .357 Mag 3" DASA SS is chambered in .357 Magnum, offering higher velocity and energy.
  • Colt Night Cobra .38 SPL 2" DASA is chambered in .38 Special, suitable for standard and +P loads.

• Barrel Length and Dimensions:

  • King Cobra features a 3-inch barrel, contributing to a longer sight radius.
  • Night Cobra has a 2-inch barrel, enhancing concealability.

• Action Type:

  • King Cobra operates in double-action/single-action (DA/SA) mode.
  • Night Cobra is double-action-only (DAO) with a bobbed hammer for snag-free draw.

• Finish and Materials:

  • King Cobra is constructed with brushed stainless steel.
  • Night Cobra features a black Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) finish for enhanced corrosion resistance.

• Sights:

  • King Cobra comes with a brass bead front sight.
  • Night Cobra is equipped with a tritium front sight for improved low-light visibility.

Current Market Position & Pricing

• Colt King Cobra .357 Mag 3" DASA SS:

  • MSRP: $899. (media.shootingsportsmedia.com)
  • Available through various retailers, with prices ranging from approximately $829.99 to $1,035.99. (recoilgunworks.com)

• Colt Night Cobra .38 SPL 2" DASA:

  • MSRP: $899. (media.shootingsportsmedia.com)
  • Retail prices vary, with listings around $910.99. (rangeusa.com)

Both models are positioned as premium revolvers, with the King Cobra offering versatility in ammunition and the Night Cobra focusing on concealed carry features.

Specifications Comparison

(media.shootingsportsmedia.com)

Performance and Accuracy

• Colt King Cobra:

  • The .357 Magnum chambering provides higher velocity and energy, suitable for various applications.
  • The 3-inch barrel offers a longer sight radius, potentially enhancing accuracy.
  • Recoil is more pronounced with .357 Magnum loads but manageable due to the revolver's weight and grip design.

• Colt Night Cobra:

  • Chambered in .38 Special, including +P loads, offering adequate performance for self-defense.
  • The 2-inch barrel is optimized for close-range engagements.
  • The DAO trigger system provides a consistent pull, beneficial for defensive scenarios.

Both revolvers are noted for their reliability and durability, with solid construction and quality materials.

Ergonomics and Handling

• Colt King Cobra:

  • The Hogue Overmolded Rubber grips offer a comfortable and secure hold.
  • The DA/SA action allows for versatility in shooting preferences.
  • Slightly heavier, which aids in recoil management but may affect prolonged carry comfort.

• Colt Night Cobra:

  • G10 grips provide a firm grip with a slim profile, enhancing concealability.
  • The bobbed hammer and DAO action reduce the risk of snagging during draw.
  • Lighter weight contributes to easier carry but may result in increased felt recoil.

Features and Accessories

• Colt King Cobra:

  • Features a brass bead front sight, which can be replaced with aftermarket options.
  • The DA/SA action provides flexibility for different shooting scenarios.
  • Limited accessory options due to the lack of an accessory rail.

• Colt Night Cobra:

  • Equipped with a tritium front sight for improved low-light performance.
  • The DAO action with a bobbed hammer enhances concealability.
  • Similar to the King Cobra, accessory options are limited without an accessory rail.

Real-World Applications

• Colt King Cobra:

  • Suitable for home defense, target shooting, and as a trail gun due to its powerful chambering and versatility.
  • The 3-inch barrel balances concealability and performance, making it a viable option for open carry.

• Colt Night Cobra:

  • Designed primarily for concealed carry and personal defense, with features that enhance draw speed and reduce printing.
  • The DAO action and tritium sights cater to defensive shooting scenarios, especially in low-light conditions.

Expert and User Reviews Analysis

• Colt King Cobra:

  • Praised for its robust construction and smooth trigger pull.
  • Some users note the rearward-pulling cylinder latch may require grip adjustment during reloads. (americanrifleman.org)

• Colt Night Cobra:

  • Recognized for its corrosion-resistant DLC finish and ergonomic design.
  • The DAO trigger system is appreciated for its consistency, though some shooters may prefer a DA/SA option. (americanrifleman.org)

Final Verdict

• Colt King Cobra:

  • Ideal for those seeking a versatile revolver capable of handling powerful .357 Magnum loads, suitable for home defense, target shooting, and open carry.

• Colt Night Cobra:

  • Best suited for individuals prioritizing concealed carry, with features designed to enhance draw speed and reduce the likelihood of snagging, while offering reliable performance with .38 Special +P ammunition.

Both revolvers uphold Colt's reputation for quality and reliability, with the choice between them depending on the user's specific needs and preferences.

Sources

• American Rifleman. "Tested: Colt Night Cobra Revolver." Website. Date. URL
• American Rifleman. "Review: Colt King Cobra." Website. Date. URL
• Colt's Manufacturing Company. "2020 Product Highlight Brochure." Website. Date. URL
• Firearms Bulletin. "Colt King Cobra Revolver." Website. Date. URL
• USCCA. "The Colt .38 Special Night Cobra: A Top-of-the-Line Six-Shot Snub." Website. Date. URL