COLT Custom Shop Python Elite I3060CS .357 .38 DA/SA Double Revolver 2003
SOLD FOR: $4401
LSB#: 230114GG001
Make: Colt
Model: Custom Shop Python Elite (Model #I3060CS)
Serial Number: PE05522
Date of Manufacture: 2003 (COLT Serial Number Lookup)
Caliber: .357 Magnum and .38 Special
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 ELITE / * 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 and crane cut are marked “PE05522”. The left side plate features the Rampant Colt. The left front trigger guard bow is marked with “VP” in a triangle and the rear bow with “A”.
Barrel Length: 6”
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp with orange aiming reference that 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. The top of the barrel rib and the topstrap have a matte finish to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth wood with finger grooves, each with an inset Gold Colt medallion at the top. There are minor handling marks, but otherwise the grips are free of any serious wear or damage. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Stainless Steel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright for the most and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion, but light stubborn fouling perists on the lands even after the use of the brush. A more dedicated cleaning will surely relieve it. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates a 7 out of 10!
Overall Condition: There are only minor hairline scuffs and swirl marks scattered about the stainless steel. The cylinder has a faint turn line. The screws have light tool marks, all slots are strong. All markings are clear. Overall, this 98% revolver is in Fine-plus-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, thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This Python Elite includes a mtching blue plastic Colt factory snap case, and various factory paperwork including the manual, and a lock.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear-powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, 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? 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. General Python manufacturing ceased in 1999, and any examples made subsequently came from the Colt Custom Shop—custom production would discontinue in 2005, however. This example is from 2003, which happens to be the last year the Elite model was offered in any form. Pythin production began again in 2020, but as the old song says, “The old gray mare/she ain’t what she used to be/many long years ago.” This Python is literally the last of what was a dying breed, gorgeous, balanced. It is in high condition, near to Excellent, and without a doubt this will be a truly welcome addition to any collection, or an incredible start to one. Now, ready, aim, bid!
—Rick
