Colt King Cobra Carry Review

Introducing the Colt King Cobra Carry, a compact .357 Magnum revolver with a 2-inch barrel, 6-round capacity, and DA/SA action. Constructed from stainless steel and featuring Hogue Overmolded grips, it has fixed sights and weighs around 28 ounces. This model is part of Colt’s legendary Cobra lineup, which has a rich legacy in the realm of revolvers. Designed with self-defense and concealed carry in mind, the King Cobra Carry boasts features that cater to both ease of use and reliability.

Design and Features

The King Cobra Carry is a double-action revolver, meaning it can fire in double-action mode where pulling the trigger both cocks and releases the hammer, as well as in single-action mode where the hammer is manually cocked for a lighter trigger pull. It’s chambered in .357 Magnum, a caliber known for its stopping power and versatility, as it can also fire the less powerful .38 Special rounds, offering users a range of ammunition options depending on their needs or preferences.

The revolver features a 2-inch barrel, making it more compact and easier to conceal than models with longer barrels. This barrel length is a key aspect of its design, aiming to strike a balance between ease of carry and shooting accuracy. Despite its shorter barrel, the King Cobra Carry is engineered to provide a level of accuracy that is impressive for a revolver of its size, a testament to Colt’s craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Ergonomics and Handling

The King Cobra Carry is designed with ergonomics in mind. It features a Hogue Overmolded grip, which provides a comfortable and secure hold, reducing the felt recoil when firing .357 Magnum rounds. This grip design enhances control and accuracy, making the revolver more manageable, especially in high-stress situations where precision is crucial.

The revolver’s sights are also noteworthy. The King Cobra Carry is equipped with a fixed front sight and a rear sight that is designed to facilitate quick and easy target acquisition. The sights are engineered to be effective in a variety of lighting conditions, ensuring that the user can aim with confidence whenever the need arises.

Pros and Cons

My Personal Maintenance Routine King Cobra Carry

• Safety First Always start by verifying the revolver is unloaded. Make it a habit to check twice, ensuring there’s no ammunition in the cylinder. Safety should always be your top priority.
• Disassemble with Care Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to partially disassemble your King Cobra Carry, if applicable, for cleaning. This usually means opening the cylinder but consult your manual for any specific guidance.
• Clean the Barrel and Cylinder Use a quality bore brush and solvent to scrub the inside of the barrel and each chamber of the cylinder. I find that slow, deliberate strokes remove residue best, followed by a pass with a clean patch to check for leftover grime.
• Inspect as You Clean Keep an eye out for unusual wear or damage as you clean. This includes checking the forcing cone, cylinder lock-up, and ejector rod for signs of excessive wear or damage.
• Lubricate Sparingly A light application of gun oil on moving parts prevents rust and ensures smooth operation. Remember, a little goes a long way; you don’t want to gum up your revolver’s action with excess lubricant.
• Wipe Down the Exterior Use a soft, lint-free cloth lightly coated with oil to wipe down the stainless steel surface. This not only keeps your King Cobra Carry looking sharp but also adds a protective layer against moisture and fingerprints.
• Reassemble and Function Check Once everything is clean and lubricated, reassemble your revolver and perform a function check. Make sure the action is smooth and that the cylinder locks up tight with no play.
• Dry Fire Practice (Optional) If you’re comfortable and it’s safe to do so, a little dry fire practice can help keep your trigger finger in shape and familiarize you with any maintenance-related changes in the revolver’s feel.
• Storage Store your King Cobra Carry in a dry, cool place. Using a silicone-treated gun sock or a dehumidifier in your safe can further protect against rust and corrosion.
• Regular Inspection Even if you haven’t fired your revolver recently, it’s good practice to inspect and wipe it down periodically. This helps catch any issues early and maintains the protective oil layer.

Safety Tips

• Always assume a firearm is loaded, even if you believe it’s not. This mindset encourages caution and respect for the potential danger, reducing the chance of accidental discharge.
• Your finger should rest outside the trigger guard until you have made the conscious decision to shoot. This prevents unintentional firing, a fundamental rule in firearm safety.
• Be aware of where your firearm is pointing at all times, even when unloaded. This ensures that even if an accidental discharge occurs, it won’t result in injury or unwanted damage.
• Before pulling the trigger, know exactly what you’re shooting at and what is behind and around your target. Bullets can penetrate and travel beyond your target, so ensuring a safe backdrop is crucial.
• When your King Cobra Carry is not in use, make sure it’s stored securely to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children or anyone unfamiliar with firearm safety. Using a gun safe, lockbox, or a gun lock can help keep your firearm secure and reduce the risk of accidents.

King Cobra Carry: My Expert Ratings and Insights

Aspect	Review Summary	Score
Cleaning Frequency	Essential after every use to maintain accuracy and prevent build-up. Strict regimen recommended.	9/10
Lubrication	Critical for preserving smooth action and preventing wear. Must be performed with precision.	9/10
Inspection	Regular inspection crucial for early detection of issues, ensuring reliability and safety.	9/10
Storage Conditions	Optimal storage in dry, temperate conditions to prevent corrosion and wear. High importance.	8/10
Ammunition Check	Frequent checks and rotation vital for performance consistency and safety.	8/10
Parts Replacement	Proactive replacement of parts prevents malfunctions, sustaining peak performance.	7/10
Professional Servicing	Annual servicing by a qualified technician recommended to ensure thorough maintenance.	7/10
Accessory Care	Regular maintenance of accessories ensures compatibility and reliability during use.	7/10
Training Regularity	Consistent practice is key to proficiency and discovering any operational issues.	8/10
Safety Gear Maintenance	Ensuring protective gear is in top condition is essential for safe handling practices.	8/10

Conclusion

The King Cobra Carry by Colt represents a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern features, making it a formidable option for those in need of a reliable, powerful, and concealable firearm. Its compact design, combined with the power of the .357 Magnum cartridge, ergonomic features, and durable construction, make it an excellent choice for self-defense and concealed carry. Colt’s commitment to quality and performance is evident in the King Cobra Carry, making it a worthy addition to the storied legacy of Colt revolvers. Whether for personal protection or as a piece of a collection, the King Cobra Carry stands out as a testament to Colt’s dedication to excellence in the firearms industry.

FAQs

• What caliber is the King Cobra Carry chambered for?
  The King Cobra Carry is chambered for .357 Magnum, but it can also safely fire .38 Special rounds, offering versatility in ammunition choice.
• How often should I clean my King Cobra Carry?
  It’s recommended to clean your revolver after every use to ensure optimal performance and longevity. A thorough cleaning routine helps prevent buildup and corrosion.
• Can the King Cobra Carry be used for concealed carry?
  Yes, with its 2-inch barrel and compact design, the King Cobra Carry is well-suited for concealed carry, offering a balance between concealability and firepower.
• What is the capacity of the King Cobra Carry?
  The King Cobra Carry typically has a 6-round capacity, common for revolvers of its size and caliber.
• Is the King Cobra Carry suitable for beginners?
  While it can be suitable for beginners, the .357 Magnum’s recoil may be challenging for new shooters. Starting with .38 Special ammunition could provide a more manageable learning experience.
• What kind of maintenance does the King Cobra Carry require?
  Regular cleaning, proper lubrication, periodic inspection for wear and tear, and timely replacement of worn-out parts are essential maintenance routines for the King Cobra Carry.
• How does the weight of the King Cobra Carry affect its use?
  The stainless steel construction makes it heavier than polymer-framed guns, which can aid in recoil management but might be considered less comfortable for all-day carry by some users.
• What accessories are recommended for the King Cobra Carry?
  A quality holster for concealed carry, a cleaning kit designed for .357 Magnum/38 Special, and proper safety gear (eye and ear protection) are recommended accessories.
• How does the King Cobra Carry perform in terms of accuracy?
  Despite its shorter barrel, the King Cobra Carry is designed to offer good accuracy for self-defense ranges, thanks to its solid construction and sight configuration.
• Where can I get professional servicing for my King Cobra Carry?
  Professional servicing can be obtained from certified gunsmiths or directly through Colt’s customer service, ensuring that any maintenance or repairs are carried out by experts familiar with the specific requirements of this revolver.

We’re eager to hear from you! Do you own a King Cobra Carry or have you had the chance to use one? Share your personal experiences and insights in the comments section below. Whether it’s about its performance, maintenance, or how it handles in different situations, your feedback could be invaluable to fellow enthusiasts and potential owners making informed decisions. Let’s build a community of informed and responsible King Cobra Carry users together!