Colt Python Model Blue 6″ .357 Magnum Double Action Revolver, MFD 1961 C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,533.99
LSB#: 231229JM005
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 15242
Year of Manufacture: 1961 (Colt Serial Lookup)
Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special
Action Type: Double Action SA/DA Revolver with Swing Out Cylinder
Barrel Length: 6”, Vent Rib, Full Underlug
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a ramped serrated blade pinned to the rib above the muzzle. The rear sight is a square notch in a fully adjustable mount pinned to the rear of the top strap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with gold-colored Colt medallions at their tops. The grips have a few sparse nicks and minor handling wear. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright, the rifling is well-defined. There is some light erosion in the bore near the muzzle. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates an 8 or 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 98% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows a faint turn line on the cylinder, a few light nicks and handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this pistol is in Fine Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks in each position with no play when the trigger is pressed. We did not fire this firearm. We have cleaned this firearm and performed a mechanic’s check but expect many will want to clean the firearm again depending on their standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This handgun comes with apparently the original sales receipt, an NRA Score Record book and a Colt 125th Anniversary coin.
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 shows 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. The Colt Python revolvers are no longer being made, 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 is a 6? example from 1961 which appears to have seen honest use over the last 61 years with 98% of its metal finish remaining and retaining a great bore and strong mechanics. This Python is sure to attract collectors as well as shooters. Please see our pictures and good luck in your bidding!
-J. Ren
