Colt Python Model I3660 6″ Blue .357 Magnum SA/DA Revolver, 1966 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,445.00
LSB#: LSB260125DW014
Make: Colt
Model: Python, Model I3660
Serial Number: 56604
Date of Manufacture: 1966 ()
Caliber: .38 Special/.357 Magnum
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver With Swing Out Cylinder
Barrel Length: 6″, Vent-Rib, Full Lug
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a 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 topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grip is a one-piece checkered black rubber Pachmayr Presentation grip. The grip has minor handling wear. The checkering is well defined. There are no rips or tears, but the backstrap has pressed out the rear portion of the grip just enough to be visible. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition as not original to the gun.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
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 8+/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 96% of its finish. The finish is thinning lightly at some edges and corners. There are a few scattered minor marks. There are a few spots of minor oxidation with some faint oxidation on the unfinished side faces of the hammer. The action shows light operational wear including a thin turn-line on the cylinder. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The double action trigger is smooth. The single action is crisp. The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when the trigger is depressed. 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: 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″, this example having a 6″ barrel, 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 the same as they were originally, 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 appears to have been carried and used a little, but still locks up tight as a drum and has a mostly bright bore with strong rifling. It has just enough operational and handling wear that it could probably be fired without losing value, making this a great option for collectors and shooters alike. Please see our pictures and good luck!
-Bud