Colt Python .357 Magnum 6” Single Double Action Revolver Blued, MFD 1978

SOLD FOR: $1,530.00

LSB#: LSB250825JP173

Make: Colt

Model: Python, Model

Serial Number: V17132

Date of Manufacture: 1978 / Modern

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 flat under the crane and the crane are marked with the serial number “K35051”. The sideplate is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle.

Barrel Length: 6” Vent-Rib with Full Underlug

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated, ramped blade pinned to the front of the rib. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation in a base pinned to the top-strap. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte finish to reduce glare.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with Colt medallions. There is light handling wear. There are two small chips out of the top of the right grip and a small chip out of the bottom front of the left side grip.  The checkering is well defined. There are scratches and compression marks. There are no cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original 

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is light fouling.  In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10. 

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 95% of its finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There is minor dulling of the blue on the frame around the cylinder release. There are light handling marks and faint scuff marks  throughout.  The cylinder has a thin turn-line. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Excellent 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. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None 

Our Assessment: The Colt Python has long been regarded as the pinnacle of double-action revolver craftsmanship—an American icon introduced in 1955 as Colt’s flagship premium revolver. Built on the “I” frame, it was hand-fitted, meticulously tuned, and finished to a standard that set the benchmark for revolver quality. This 1978 production 6-inch model features the classic full underlug and ventilated rib, balancing recoil while giving the Python its unmistakable silhouette. 

Chambered in .357 Magnum—a cartridge born from the 1930s quest for greater velocity and penetration in law enforcement revolvers—the Python delivers both power and precision, capable of firing .38 Special ammunition for lighter target work. The bore is bright and sharp, rating 9/10, and the revolver retains approximately 95% of its finish with only light handling wear.  The tight lockup, smooth double-action pull, and crisp single-action break embody what collectors refer to as “Python perfection.” This example represents one of the finest expressions of Colt’s craftsmanship before the original Python line ended in 1999—a truly classic revolver that remains the standard by which all others are judged. Please view our high quality photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids! –

BF