Colt Cobra .38 Special +P 6rd 2″ Brushed Stainless

The Colt Cobra .38 Special +P 6rd 2″ Brushed Stainless is proof that Colt still knows how to build a snub-nose that collectors and daily carriers both respect. This small-frame revolver brings back the classic lines of the original Cobra but with modern metallurgy, a six-shot cylinder, and full +P rating. It’s brushed stainless, so it shrugs off sweat and rain, and the Hogue rubber grip makes the 2-inch barrel controllable even with hot loads. If you’ve been hunting for a new-production Colt that feels like a gun show find but shoots like a modern defensive tool, this is it.

Manufacturer	Colt
Model	Cobra .38 Special +P
Material	Brushed stainless steel (frame and cylinder)
Compatibility	.38 Special +P rated (also accepts standard .38 Special)
Finish	Brushed stainless (low-glare, corrosion-resistant)
Weight	Approximately 22 oz (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New production

Key Features

• Six-Round Cylinder in a Snub Frame — Why it matters: Most 2″ revolvers give you five shots; the Cobra gives you six, which means one more round before a reload in a defensive situation.
• +P Rated for Hot .38 Special Loads — Why it matters: You can run standard-pressure practice ammo all day and then load +P hollow points for carry without worrying about frame fatigue or cylinder timing.
• Brushed Stainless Steel Construction — Why it matters: The brushed finish hides holster wear and fingerprints better than polished stainless, and it’s naturally rust-resistant for humid environments or pocket carry.
• Hogue Overmold Rubber Grip — Why it matters: The soft rubber absorbs recoil and gives your hand a positive purchase, especially important with a 22-ounce revolver running +P loads.
• 2-Inch Barrel for Concealability — Why it matters: A 2″ barrel keeps the overall length short enough for appendix or ankle carry, while still delivering enough velocity for .38 Special defensive rounds.

Who It’s For

This revolver is aimed at collectors who want a modern interpretation of a classic Colt snub-nose, and at shooters who want a reliable, simple-to-operate everyday carry piece. It’s also a solid choice for anyone who prefers double-action triggers over striker-fired pistols, or who wants a backup gun that won’t malfunction under pressure.

Pros / Cons

• Pros: Six-round capacity in a snub frame, brushed stainless finish that’s built to last, +P rated, Hogue grip right out of the box, classic Colt styling with modern internals.
• Cons: The double-action trigger pull is heavier than a tuned S&W J-frame (per owner reports), and the brushed finish can show light scratches over time if you’re rough with it. Also, some shooters find the Hogue grip a little bulky for pocket carry.

Comparison

Feature	Colt Cobra .38 +P	Smith & Wesson Model 642	Ruger LCR .38 +P
Capacity	6 rounds	5 rounds	5 rounds
Weight	22 oz	15 oz	13.5 oz
Finish	Brushed stainless	Satin stainless	Black nitrided / stainless
Trigger	DA only (smooth, about 10-11 lb)	DA only (about 12 lb)	DA only (about 9 lb)
Grip	Hogue overmold rubber	Standard rubber boot	Hogue Tamer grip
Price	~$793	~$480	~$700

FAQ

Is the Colt Cobra +P rated for continuous use?

Yes, Colt explicitly rates this revolver for .38 Special +P ammunition. However, like any +P-rated gun, you should still practice primarily with standard-pressure loads and reserve +P for carry or duty use to extend the life of the cylinder and frame.

Will the brushed stainless finish scratch easily?

Brushed stainless is more forgiving than high-polish finishes, but it can still show light surface scratches from holster wear or handling. The brushed texture actually helps hide minor scuffs better than a mirror finish. A light application of Flitz or Mother’s Mag polish will restore the brushed look if needed.

Can I use speedloaders with the Hogue grip?

Yes, the Hogue overmold grip is slim enough to clear most standard .38 Special speedloaders, such as the HKS 36 or Safariland Comp I. However, if you have larger hands, a speedloader with a longer knob (like the HKS 36-A) may be easier to use.

Is the Colt Cobra a good choice for left-handed shooters?

Yes, because it’s a double-action revolver with no manual safety or slide release, it’s completely ambidextrous. The cylinder release is on the left side, but most left-handed shooters can reach it with their index finger or simply use their support hand to release the cylinder.

What holsters fit the Colt Cobra with the 2-inch barrel?

Most holsters designed for the Smith & Wesson J-frame (2-inch barrel) will fit the Colt Cobra snugly, but you should check the specific fit for your holster brand. Kydex holsters molded for the S&W 642 or 637 often work with the Cobra, while leather holsters may require a break-in period.

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Last updated: April 2026

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