Colt Model Python .357 Magnum 6″ Vent Rib DA/SA Revolver, MFD 1969 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2582.77
LSB#: 210917LF02
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 96620
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 “96620”. 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 6”.
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp and is pinned to the top of the rib. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. 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 on the heel of each panel. There are some scattered minor nicks and draglines on the smooth upper areas and along the back of each panel. The checkering has light handling wear yet remains well-defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good-to-Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is quite bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 96% of its finish. The barrel and underlug have scattered minor nicks, a few of which are through the finish. There are other scattered fine little nicks and marks throughout the metal, most notably on the cylinder. There is a faint thin turn line on the cylinder. There are otherwise a few light handling marks scattered about. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine-plus 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/light in single action. We have not fired this revolver. As with all used firearms, 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, J. R. R. Tolkien’s final volume of “The Lord of the Rings”, The Return of the King was published by George Allen and Unwin in London, 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 6”) 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 will just 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 has been fairly well cared for over the past 52 years. In its high condition, this would be a welcome addition to any collection. Good luck and happy bidding!