COLT Custom Shop Python I3660-H 357 Mag Blued DA/SA Revolver Letter, 1979
SOLD FOR: $3514
LSB#: 211015CM01
Make: Colt
Model: Python (I3660-H)
Serial Number: V81427
Date of Manufacture: 1979 (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 with the serial number, “V81427”. The side plate is marked with the “Rampant Colt”. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle and at the rear with “A”.
Barrel Length: 6” with vented barrel rib.
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a Colt custom shop partridge style blade that is dual-pinned to a ramped base that runs the length of the barrel rib. The rear sight is a Colt custom shop adjustable Elliason Kensight square-notch pinned to a channel in the top strap. The top strap and front sight base are matte to better reduce glare.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut, each with an inset Gold Colt medallion in the smooth area. There are minor handling marks but otherwise the grips are free of any notable wear or damage. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate in Fine-to-Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its blued finish. Very few minor nicks dot the revolver and can be seen primarily on the underlug. There are a few minor stubborn stains on the right side of the frame just above the trigger. The cylinder has a faint, thin turn-line most evident between the lead-in grooves. Screws are lightly toolmarked, all have strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine-to-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when the trigger is depressed. This model features fine tuning performed by the Colt custom shop. The action functions correctly; the double action is remarkably smooth and lighter than other Python revolvers, and the single-action is lighter-than-light. We have not fired this revolver. This revolver has a wide target style hammer and a serrated trigger. As with all used firearms, thorough and consistent cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This python will ship with its serial-matching Colt cardboard box and styrofoam inlay. The box features a Colt custom shop end label denoting the modification. Also included is the original manual. We have reached out to Colt and confirmed the modifications are legitimate and in so doing have obtained a letter of authentencity. Should the letter arrive prior to the close of the auction, it will ship with the revolver; if it arrives after, it will be mailed to the winning bidder.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, Arco, Idaho, became the first US city lit by nuclear power, and Colt began shipping the greatest 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 1/2″ to 8″ and with some of the finest machining and finishing seen in the industry, the Python has earned its reputation and continues to be eagerly sought after to this day. The Colt Python revolvers were discontinued, then re-introduced, but the originals are by all accounts of much higher quality so the value of these fantastic weapons only continues to increase and these revolvers are becoming harder and harder to find. Especially so in the case of examples such as this one which was modified by the Colt custom shop to have improved tuning—the action is butter—and was equipped with different sights. This example dates back to 1979, but looks more like a very recent firearm. There is very little wear and its timeless aesthetic sets it apart from all contemporaries. Good luck and happy bidding!