COLT Python .357 Magnum Nickel 4″ DA/SA Double Action Revolver, 1973
SOLD FOR: $2775
LSB#: 210924SS19
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: E59429
Date of Manufacture: 1973 (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 with the serial number, “E59427”. 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 “I”.
Barrel Length: 4” with ventilated barrel rib.
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade that is pinned to the barrel 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. Edges of the panels are a little worn down, the right panel has a bit of play, and the medallions have some minor finish loss. The checkering is well-defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Very Good-to-Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 95% of its finish. Throughout the metal there are clusters of light scuffs that are most notable over the grip panels along with some more notable nicks on the left side of the frame ahead of the cylinder. Screws are sharp and all 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, thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This Python includes a blue Colt factory snap-case.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear-powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, Brando’s On the Waterfront swept the Oscars, 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 nickel Python has been well kept over the past 49 years, with hardly any significant wear and a clean bore. In its high condition, this would be a welcome addition to any serpent collection. Good luck and happy bidding!