COLT Python I3660 .357 Magnum DA/SA Double Action Revolver, MFD 1996
SOLD FOR: $2532
LSB#: 220222JH008
Make: Colt
Model: Python (Model #I3660)
Serial Number: PN13771
Date of Manufacture: 1996 (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 CT. U.S.A.”. The crane and crane cut are marked “PN13771”. The side plate features a “Rampant Colt”. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle and at the rear with a “6”.
Barrel Length: The vent rib barrel with full underlug is 6”.
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 minor handling marks but otherwise the grips are free of any notable wear or damage. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. There is holster wear in the form of minor thinning on the left side of the barrel. The screw heads are sharp. All other markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine-to-Excellent 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: This Python includes a non-matching Colt box with Styrofoam inlay, and a secondary black rubber Colt grip.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear-powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, Frank Sinatra’s Wee Small Hours was released, 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 example is late-era, from 1996, and is in rather high condition, with only a bit of holster wear. It is otherwise a gorgeous piece of hardware. Good luck and happy bidding!