COLT Python I3660 .357 Magnum DA/SA Blued Double Action Revolver, 1959 C&R

Make: Colt

Model: Python

Serial Number: 8314

Date of Manufacture: 1959 (COLT Serial Number Lookup)

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver With Swing Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 6” with full-length vent rib and underlug.

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. The back strap is serrated. The grips have minor handling wear. There is some verdigris at the medallions. There are a few scattered minor marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine-Plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: The frame and cylinder finish is Original. The barrel has been Refinished.

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 95% of its current metal finish. The barrel has some minor wear. The backstrap has minor handling wear and some surface oxidation in the serrations. There are a few scattered minor nicks and scratches. The action shows minor operational wear. The screw heads range form sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine condition as partially refinished.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock-up 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, the US dipped its toes into the Vietnam situation for the first time, 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 made like the originals, so the price for these fantastic weapons are just going to continue to appreciate. They are becoming harder and harder to find, making it difficult to bring oneself to actually fire a Python, should one lay their hands on an example.

This Python was produced in 1959 and is fairly well preserved. The barrel has been refinished, possibly replaced, but retains a strong bore. The cylinder still locks up solid when the trigger is depressed. This revolver would be a neat addition to a collection missing the Python and should still prove to be a good shooter. Please see our photos and good luck!

Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud