COLT Python I3660 357 Magnum DA/SA Double Action Revolver, 1978 Blued
SOLD FOR: $1975
LSB#: 220115BS003
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 01207N
Date of Manufacture: 1978 (COLT Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: DA/SA Double and Single Action Revolver with 6-Shot 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 “01207N”. The left side plate is marked with a “Rampant Colt”. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in an inverted triangle and at the rear with “D”.
Barrel Length: 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 at the top. There are minor handling marks and a few light nicks on lower edges along with some minor finish loss at the heel of each panels. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion, but some light stubborn fouling persists at the throat.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 94% of its finish. On either side of the barrel and underlug there is moderate holster wear at the front. The top strap has intermittent minor nicks. The frame and side plate have scattered light nicks and tool marks, some of which go through the finish. The cylinder has moderate thinning on the forward edges with a few complimentary spots on the rear edge. There is a faint turn line. Screws and controls are undamaged. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is 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, Albert Einstein passed away, 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 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 blued revolver from 1978 was lovingly cared for over the past 44 years, but was clearly well-loved, as evidenced by the tell-tale holster- and draw-wear. It is otherwise in high condition, and so this will be a welcome addition to just about any collection. Please see our pictures and good luck!