Colt Python I3640, Blue 4″ Vent-Rib Full Lug 6-Shot SA/DA Double Action Revolver, 1977 .357 Mag

SOLD FOR: $2,225.00
LSB#: 
180929RL15

Make: Colt

Model: Python, Model I3640

Serial Number: 72278E

Date of Manufacture: 1977 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)

Caliber: .38 Special/.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 with the serial number, the cut is also marked “5”. The left sideplate 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 4”

Sights / Optics: This revolver is mounted with a square notched rear sight 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 black finish to reduce glare.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered wood panels with gold-colored Colt medallions at their tops. The grips have a couple of light compressions on their bottom edges, the left panel has two damaged checkers at the grip-screw and there are light handling marks. The checkering shows very light handling wear but is generally sharp. There are no chips or cracks. The grips are in about Fine-plus 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 97% of its finish. There is a nick on the left edge of the barrel rib in the ramped portion. The frame has only a few light marks including a couple on the edge of the trigger guard at the “VP” mark and one on the left edge of the topstrap above the stop notches on the cylinder. The crane has light operational wear at the hinge. The cylinder has a thin turn-line, mostly only through the finish in the lead-in grooves and stop notches. There are a couple of light marks between flutes at the rear of the flutes which appear to line up with the front sideplate screw under the cylinder. The hammer has light operational wear. The screw heads are sharp except for the grip screw which is tool marked with a strong slot. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in about Fine-plus condition.

Mechanics: The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when the trigger is depressed. The action functions correctly. We have not fired this revolver. This revolver has a wide target style hammer and a serrated trigger.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Colt Python was first introduced in 1955, the same year as Smith & Wesson’s M29 .44 Magnum. The now discontinued Python targeted the premium revolver market, and some firearm collectors and writers such as Jeff Cooper and Ian V. Hogg have described the Python as the finest production revolver ever made. If this revolver is any example, they are certainly right! The tight lockup, smooth action, and heavy barrel make this a perfect choice for home protection, target shooting and even a carry gun. This revolver is in Fine-plus condition with wear consistent with responsible storage and little use. Colt isn’t making more Pythons at the moment and Pythons in almost any condition are treated as investment pieces more than firearms in most cases. If you’re looking for a Python to shoot, this is one to take a look at, but in its high condition, the collectors will be interested as well. Please see our pictures and good luck!

CA Legal or CA Private Party Transferable: This handgun CANNOT be transferred as a dealer sale in California but CAN be sold as a Private Party Transfer (PPT) at our Simi Valley shop. This does not apply to out of state residents.

Colt Python I3640, Blue 4" Vent-Rib Full Lug 6-Shot SA/DA Double Action Revolver, 1977 .357 Mag
Colt Python I3640, Blue 4″ Vent-Rib Full Lug
6-Shot SA/DA Double Action Revolver, 1977 .357 Mag