Colt Python .357 mag 2 1/2” Single Double Action Revolver Nickel 1967 C&R

SOLD FOR: $3,282.00

LSB#: LSB251016KS025

Make: Colt

Model: Python

Serial Number: 72891 

Date of Manufacture: 1967 / C&R (https://www.colt.com/serial-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 flat under the crane and the crane are marked with the serial number “ 72891”. The sideplate is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle and the rear of the trigger guard is marked with an “B”. 

Barrel Length: 2 1/2” Vent-Rib with Full Underlug

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated, ramped blade pinned to the front of the rib with an orange insert. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation in a base pinned to the top-strap. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte finish to reduce glare.

Stock Configuration & Condition:The grips are two-piece checkered wood with Silver-colored Colt medallions. The grips have several dings, scratches and handling marks throughout. Some of the checkering is worn on both grips but is still fairly sharp.  Overall, the grips are in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Nickel

Finish Originality: Original 

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is minor fouling present.  There is no erosion in the bore.  In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10. 

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 90% of its nickel finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout.  There are a few minor spots of oxidation in the cylinder flutes.  There are thin carbon rings on the face of the cylinder. There are scratches, handling marks and smudges on the finish.  The top strap is discolored from oil.  The cylinder has a thin turn-line. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The lock-up on this revolver is solid, with no play when the trigger is depressed. The action functions correctly. 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: The Colt Python has long been regarded as the pinnacle of American double action revolver craftsmanship. Introduced in 1955 as Colt’s flagship revolver, the Python was conceived not as a duty sidearm but as a premium, hand fitted target and sporting revolver built to the highest standards Colt could achieve. Each example was extensively hand polished, carefully timed, and tuned to deliver a famously smooth double action pull and a crisp single action break. By 1967, when this revolver was manufactured, the Python was firmly established as the benchmark against which all other double action revolvers were measured, embodying Colt’s golden era of revolver production.

This example is configured with the highly desirable 2 1/2 inch barrel, a format favored for its balance of concealability and unmistakable Python styling. Finished in factory nickel, the revolver retains approximately 90 percent of its original finish, with honest handling wear, light scratches, thin carbon rings on the cylinder face, and minor oxidation visible in a few cylinder flutes. The bore remains mirror bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, rating very well, while the checkered wood grips with silver Colt medallions show expected wear consistent with age but remain solid and serviceable.

Mechanically, the revolver presents as expected of a Python, with solid lockup, correct timing, and smooth operation in both single and double action. The wide target hammer and serrated trigger reinforce its sporting orientation and period correctness. Overall, this 1967 Colt Python represents a well preserved, early short barrel example from the height of Colt’s revolver craftsmanship, combining classic aesthetics, strong mechanical integrity, and enduring collector appeal. Please see our high quality photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids!!!

BF