Colt Python Model I3660 Blue 6″ .357 Magnum SA/DA Revolver, 1977
SOLD FOR: $2950.01
LSB#: 221025MT022
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 73540E
Date of Manufacture: 1977 (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 “73540E”. The 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 “7”.
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 blade pinned to the top of the rib. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte finish to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut each with a gold-colored Rampant Colt medallion. The grips have only a few scattered minor marks, the most notable at the left medallion. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Fine-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is still bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates a 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. There are just a few minor nicks on the barrel and minor operational wear, most notable in the cylinder lead-in grooves. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly worn. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine-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: 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 revolver was lovingly cared for over the past 45 years. Made in 1977, it shows signs of limited and responsible use, retaining about 98% of its metal finish, a great bore and strong mechanics. In its high condition, this would be a welcome addition to just about any collection, but should also prove to be a fine shooter, as it was intended. Please see our pictures and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
