Colt Model Python .357 Magnum 4″ Vent Rib DA/SA Revolver, MFD 1969 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2525
LSB#: 210917LF01
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 97513
Date of Manufacture: 1969 (COLT Serial Number 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 “97513”. The left side plate is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle and at the rear with “H”.
Barrel Length: The vent rib barrel with full underlug is 4”.
Sights/Optics: The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The front sight is a serrated ramp and is pinned to the top of the rib. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte black finish to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut each with a Gold Rampant Colt medallion. There are some nicks and compressions along with some notable thinning on the lower left edge. There are some scattered little nicks and draglines on the smooth upper areas. The checkering has light handling wear yet remains well-defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is quite bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion, but some minor stubborn fouling persists in spots.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 94% of its finish. There is some thinning on the front of the trigger guard along with a few nicks. There are little scrapes on the front edge of the underlug. There are other scattered fine little nicks and marks throughout the metal, most notably on the sides of the barrel. There is a faint thin turn line on the cylinder. There are a few light handling marks. The screw heads are lightly worn. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when the trigger is depressed. The trigger is smooth in double action, and crisp in single action. We have not fired this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear-powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, Rosa Parks sat where she pleased, 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 is exemplified both cosmetically and in operation. With barrel lengths ranging from 2.5? to 8? (this fine example is 4”) 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 like the originals, 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 revolver been fairly well cared for over the past 52 years. In its high condition, this would be a welcome addition to just about any collection. Please see our pictures and good luck!