COLT Python Model I3661 6″ Nickel .357 Magnum DA/SA Revolver, 1972 C&R
SOLD FOR: $3512.99
LSB#: 230726SH011
Make: Colt
Model: Python (Model I3661)
Serial Number: E48875
Date of Manufacture: 1972 (COLT Serial Number Lookup)
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 crane cut and the crane are marked “E48875”. The left side plate 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 “2”.
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 that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The front sight is a serrated ramp and is 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 and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut each with a Gold Rampant Colt medallion. There are minor handling marks and a few light nicks on lower edges. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Fine-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is infrequent very minor erosion, mostly at the muzzle end, and there is some stubborn fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8 or 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. There are some scattered minor nicks and a few scuffs . The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Excellent 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. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This revolver comes in a two-piece faux-wood cardboard Colt box. The label is model-matching but the box has a different serial number than the revolver.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear-powered submarine, the NATO exercise “Carte Blanche” took place in Western Europe, 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 is exemplified both cosmetically and in operation. With barrel lengths ranging from 2.5? to 8? (this fine example is 6”) 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 like the originals, 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 example is from 1972 and was very lovingly cared for over the past 50 years, with hardly any wear. In addition to its high condition, it also has a quite desirable nickel finish. This would be a welcome addition to just about any collection, especially if you’re after Colt Serpent revolvers. Good luck and happy bidding!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
