Colt Python Model I3661 Nickel 6″ .357 Magnum Double Action Revolver, 1972
Sold For: $3275
LSB#: 201023LF13
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: E53287
Date of Manufacture: 1972 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver With Swing Out Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “PYTHON .357 / *.357 MAGNUM CTG.*”. The right side of the barrel is marked “-COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.-”. The crane cut and the crane are marked with the serial number, the cut is also marked “P” and “T”. The sideplate is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left of the trigger guard has the “VP” in triangle at the front and “7” at the rear.
Barrel Length: The vent rib barrel with full underlug is 6”
Sights / Optics: This revolver is mounted with a square notched rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The front sight is a serrated blade pinned to the top of the rib. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte finish to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with gold colored Colt medallions at their tops. The grips have scattered nicks, scuffs and scratches with some discoloration in and around the checkering. The checkering is generally well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 97% of its finish. There are some scattered minor scuffs and handling marks. The action shows light operational wear including a thin, light turn-line on the cylinder. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when the trigger is depressed. The double action trigger is smooth. The single action is crisp. We have not fired this revolver. This revolver has a wide target style hammer and a serrated trigger. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, and Colt began shipping the finest precision combat and target revolver ever made. Each revolver was hand-tuned at the factory and this attention to detail shows both cosmetically and in operation. With barrel lengths ranging from 2.5″ to 8″ and with some of the finest machining and finishing ever seen in the industry, the Python has earned its reputation and continues to be sought after to this day. The Colt Python revolvers are no longer being made (or at least, not made like this!), so the price for these fantastic weapons are just going to continue to appreciate. The revolvers by themselves are becoming harder and harder to find, making it difficult to bring oneself to actually fire a Python. This example has a desirable nickel finish, one of the less-common finishes for these revolvers and has a 6″ barrel, giving an already accurate revolver an extra edge in precision. This beautiful revolver will no doubt draw the eyes of collectors and shooters both. Please see our pictures and good luck!