Colt Model Python .357 Magnum 6″ Blue Double Action Revolver, German Proof
SOLD FOR: $2109
LSB#: 220419FD006
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 98514E
Date of Manufacture: 1978 (https://www.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. *” and with a German “Eagle / N” proof mark. The right side of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A.”. The flat under the crane and the crane are marked “98514E”, the flat is also marked “TAI MINOT, ND”. The 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 “N”. The left side of the frame ahead of the cylinder gap is marked with two German proof marks and a “78” date code. The right side of the frame is marked “F / W / W”, Frankonia International importer.
Barrel Length: The vent rib barrel with full underlug is 6”.
Sights / Optics: The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation in a base that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The front sight is a serrated ramp 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 two-piece checkered walnut with gold-colored Colt medallions at their tops. The grips have s few light compressions and minor draglines on the smooth portions. The checkering shows light-moderate wear and is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good-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 94% of its finish. The finish is slightly thinning at edges, most notable at the leading edges of the barrel and cylinder. The sides of the muzzle show a small amount of finish loss and erosion. There are some infrequently scattered faint lines and tiny nicks. The action shows light operational wear including a distinct turn-line on the cylinder. The knurling on the spur is sharp. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when the trigger is depressed. The trigger is smooth in double action, and crisp in single action. We have not fired this revolver. This revolver has a wide target style hammer and a serrated trigger.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes in a black hard case.
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 1978 which appears to have seen only light use over the last 54 years with about 94% of its metal finish remaining, a great bore and strong mechanics. It also bears German proofs and importation marking as well as a reimportation mark. It is likely that a soldier stationed in Germany bought this revolver there and had to have it reimported upon returning to the states. Please see our pictures and good luck!