Editing Colt Cobra (section)

==Product development and usage==
The Cobra was made in three models: the First Model, made from 1950–1971 and weighing 15 ounces unloaded with 2-inch barrel, and an improved Second Model, made from 1972–1981, recognizable by its shrouded ejector rod and Baughman-style ramp front sight, with an unloaded weight of 16 ounces. The third issue debuted from 2017 in stainless steel finishes and are rated for 38 +P Spl. cartridges. None of the Cobra models are rated for 38 +P+ Spl cartridges. 

The Cobra is the same overall size and configuration as the famous [[Colt Detective Special]] and uses the same size "D" frame, except that the Cobra's frame is constructed of lightweight aluminum alloy as compared to the all-steel frame of the Detective Special. In the mid-1960s, the Detective Special's and Cobra's grip frame was shortened to the same size as that of the Agent.

The Cobra was produced in calibers .38 Special, 32 Colt New Police, .22 LR, and a rare few in .38 S&W.  The .38 Special Cobra was available in 2, 3 and 4 inch barrel lengths. The .32 caliber version was available in 2- and 3-inch barrel lengths. The .22 LR Cobra was available only with the 3-inch barrel.

Standard Cobras were blued with round-butt grip frames. All Cobras were available with a nickel finish at additional cost. Early model 1st issue series was supplied as square-butt grip.

[[File:Colt Cobra-edit.jpg|thumb|Colt Cobra revolver 2017 re-release.]]
It was announced in 2016 that Colt would re-release the Colt Cobra in 2017. The Third Model (2017–present) is offered only as a 6 shot double action/single action revolver in .38 Special (+P Capable) with a 2" barrel. This model will be offered with a Matte Stainless Steel finish and has an unloaded weight of 25 ounces. At the 2018 Shot Show, Colt debuted the Colt Night Cobra, which has a matte black finish and a front night sight. It is also double action only.
<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.colt.com/Portals/0/Specs/2017/COBRA-SM2FO.pdf|title=COLT COBRA (.38 SPECIAL +P)|website=Colt's Manufacturing Company, LLC|access-date=2017-01-02|archive-date=2020-11-11|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201111205546/https://www.colt.com/Portals/0/Specs/2017/COBRA-SM2FO.pdf|url-status=dead}}</ref>