
Colt Model Python I3640 4″ Blued .357 Magnum Double Action Revolver, 1978
SOLD FOR: $1,894.69
WOA#: WY240415EH026
Make: Colt
Model: Python, I3640
Serial Number: V15688
Date of Manufacture: 1978 (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 “V15688”. The 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 “P”.
Barrel Length: The vent rib barrel with full underlug is 4”.
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 finish to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut panels with gold-colored Colt medallions. The grips have a few scattered light marks, most notable at the bottom edge of the right panel toward the rear. There are no chips or cracks. The checkering is well defined. Overall, the grips are in Fine condition.
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, mostly along the edges of the grooves. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. The action shows minor operational wear with a faint, incomplete turn-line on the cylinder. There is some minor discoloration on the unfinished side-faces of the hammer. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in 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: None.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear-powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, the first cans of Coca-Cola were sold, 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 4”) 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 revolver has been exceedingly well cared for over the past 40+ years—very minor wear, clean markings, and a bright bore. In its high condition, this would be a welcome addition to just about any collection, but is sure to also still be a great revolver for recreational shooting or self defense. Please see our pictures and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
