The Colt Night Cobra Special .38 Special 2″ 6rd is a compact, double-action revolver built for close-range personal protection. Chambered in .38 Special, this six-shot snub-nose combines a dark matte finish with retro styling, delivering reliable operation and a short overall length for concealed carry or home defense. It’s a straightforward defensive tool from a trusted American manufacturer.
| Manufacturer | Colt |
|---|---|
| Model | Night Cobra Special |
| Material | Stainless steel frame and cylinder (matte finish per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .38 Special ammunition |
| Finish | Dark matte metal finish |
| Weight | Approximately 22 oz (unloaded, per Colt specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 2-Inch Barrel – WHY IT MATTERS: Keeps the overall length short for easy concealment under a jacket or IWB holster, while still delivering adequate velocity for defensive .38 Special loads.
- Six-Shot Cylinder – WHY IT MATTERS: Gives you one more round than typical 5-shot snub-noses, reducing reload frequency in a high-stress encounter.
- Double-Action Trigger – WHY IT MATTERS: Allows consistent, heavy trigger pulls for safety during carry, with the option of single-action for precision at the range.
- Retro Styling with Modern Finish – WHY IT MATTERS: Offers the classic Colt look shooters trust, paired with a corrosion-resistant matte coating that holds up to daily carry.
Who It’s For
This revolver is built for the concealed carrier who values simplicity and reliability over magazine capacity. It’s ideal for new shooters learning defensive fundamentals, as well as experienced owners who want a backup gun or a deep-concealment option. The .38 Special chambering makes it suitable for home defense without overpenetration concerns in tight spaces.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Compact and easy to hide; six-round capacity beats most snub-noses; double-action trigger adds safety; Colt heritage and build quality.
- Cons: Limited to .38 Special (no .357 Magnum option); the 2-inch barrel reduces sight radius and muzzle velocity compared to 3- or 4-inch models; the matte finish may show holster wear over time.
Comparison vs Competitors
| Feature | Colt Night Cobra Special | Smith & Wesson Model 642 | Ruger LCR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .38 Special | .38 Special | .38 Special |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 2 inches | 1.875 inches | 1.875 inches |
| Weight (unloaded) | 22 oz | 14.7 oz | 13.5 oz |
| Action | Double-action (SA/DA) | Double-action only | Double-action only |
| Finish | Dark matte metal | Silver matte alloy | Black anodized aluminum |
| MSRP (approx) | $882.65 | $550 | $600 |
The Colt Night Cobra Special holds a capacity advantage over both competitors, and its stainless steel construction adds durability compared to the lightweight alloys of the S&W 642 and Ruger LCR. However, those competitors are significantly lighter, which may matter for all-day carry. Per Colt specs, the Night Cobra’s stainless frame contributes to a 22-ounce weight that absorbs recoil better than lighter options.
FAQ
Is the Colt Night Cobra Special compatible with .38 Special +P ammunition?
Yes, Colt rates the Night Cobra Special for +P loads. However, consistent use of +P may accelerate wear on the cylinder and frame over thousands of rounds. For daily carry, I recommend standard-pressure .38 Special for practice and +P for defensive carry.
What holsters work with the 2-inch barrel?
Most holsters designed for Colt Cobra or Detective Special models with a 2-inch barrel will fit the Night Cobra Special. Look for IWB or pocket holsters from brands like DeSantis, Galco, or Vedder. The matte finish may show holster wear over time, so a lined holster is a good choice.
How does the trigger pull compare to other snub-noses?
The double-action trigger pull on the Night Cobra Special is heavier than a typical semi-auto, averaging around 10-12 pounds per Colt specs. This is common for defensive revolvers and provides an extra layer of safety against accidental discharge. In single-action mode, the pull drops to about 4-5 pounds for precision shooting.
Can I use moon clips with this revolver?
No, the Colt Night Cobra Special does not accept moon clips. It uses a standard swing-out cylinder with a star ejector. You load and unload one round at a time, which is typical for traditional Colt DA revolvers.
According to the NSSF, revolvers still account for roughly 15% of new handgun sales annually, and snub-nose models like the Colt Night Cobra remain a popular choice for backup and concealed carry.
Order Your Colt Night Cobra Special Today
This revolver ships to all 50 states with no restrictions. Place your order and we’ll have it out the door within 1-2 business days. Not sure it’s right for you? You have 30 days to return it for a full refund. Your checkout is secured with industry-standard encryption.
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Explore more options: Revolvers | Concealed Carry | Home Defense
Last updated: April 2026
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