Colt Python .357 Magnum 4” Single Double Action SA/DA Revolver Blued, 1977

SOLD FOR: $1,575.00

LSB#:  LSB251031NO003

Make: Colt

Model: Python

Serial Number: 86079E 

Date of Manufacture: 1977 / 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 “ E68139”.The sideplate is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle and the rear of the trigger guard is marked with an “1”. 

Barrel Length: 4” Vent-Rib with Full Underlug

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated, ramped blade pinned to the front of the rib with an orange insert. 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 black rubber with gold-colored Colt medallions. The grips have very minor handling marks and the checkering is sharp.  Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original 

Bore Condition: The bore is mirror bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore but there is stubborn fouling.  In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8.5/10. 

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There are light handling marks and smudges on the finish.  The cylinder has a very faint turn-line.  There are thin carbon rings on the face of the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine 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 American double-action revolver craftsmanship, and this 1977 example reflects the model at a mature and highly refined point in its production life. Introduced in 1955 as Colt’s flagship revolver, the Python was conceived as a premium, hand-fitted target and sporting arm rather than a utilitarian service gun. Each revolver was carefully assembled and tuned by skilled craftsmen, with extensive hand polishing, precise timing, and an action celebrated for its exceptionally smooth double-action pull and crisp single-action break. By the late 1970s, the Python had fully cemented its reputation as the benchmark against which all other double-action revolvers were measured.

Chambered in .357 Magnum, the Python combined formidable ballistic performance with outstanding shootability. The .357 Magnum cartridge offered flat trajectory, excellent penetration, and versatility, while the Python’s heavy barrel, full underlug, and ventilated rib contributed to superb balance and recoil control. The 4-inch configuration is particularly desirable, offering a blend of quick handling and sufficient sight radius, complemented by Colt’s adjustable rear sight and ramped front blade with orange insert. The matte-finished rib and top strap reduce glare and underscore the revolver’s purpose-built precision.

This example retains approximately 98 percent of its original blued finish, with only light handling marks, a very faint cylinder turn line, and thin carbon rings consistent with careful use. Markings remain clear, screw heads are sharp, and the mirror-bright bore with strong rifling supports its Fine overall condition. The solid lockup, wide target hammer, and serrated trigger further reflect the Python’s hand-tuned mechanical character. Taken as a whole, this revolver stands as a classic late-production Colt Python, offering exceptional craftsmanship, strong originality, and enduring collector appeal. Please see our high resolution photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids!!!

BF