Colt Python .357 Magnum 4” SA/DA Revolver Blued, MFD 1962 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,525.00

LSB#:  LSB251016KS034

Make: Colt

Model: Python

Serial Number: 21443 

Date of Manufacture: 1962 / C&R ()

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 CT. U.S.A.”. The flat under the crane and the crane are marked with the serial number “21443”.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 “C”. 

Barrel Length: 4” Vent-Rib with Full Underlug

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated, ramped blade pinned to the front of the rib. 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 replacement two-piece wrap around Pachmayr checkered black rubber. The grips have very minor handling marks and the checkering is sharp.  Overall, the grips are in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original 

Bore Condition: The bore is mirror bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore but there is minor fouling present.  In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10. 

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There is some wear of finish on the top strap and the front sight.  There is some thinning near the muzzle. There are light handling marks and smudges on the finish.  The cylinder has a very faint turn-line.  There are carbon rings on the face of the cylinder. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in Fine 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: Soft case

Our Assessment: The Colt Python has long been regarded as the pinnacle of American double-action revolver craftsmanship, and this example manufactured in 1962 represents the model during its early and most revered production era. Introduced in 1955 as Colt’s flagship revolver, the Python was conceived as a premium, hand-fitted target and sporting arm rather than a utilitarian service revolver. Each Python was assembled and tuned by skilled craftsmen, with extensive hand polishing, precise timing, and an action celebrated for its exceptionally smooth double-action pull and crisp single-action break. By the early 1960s, the Python had already established its reputation as the benchmark against which all other double-action revolvers were measured.

Chambered in .357 Magnum, the Python combined formidable ballistic performance with outstanding shootability. The .357 Magnum cartridge offered flat trajectory, excellent penetration, and versatility across sporting and defensive roles, while the Python’s heavy barrel, full underlug, and ventilated rib contributed to excellent balance and recoil control. The 4 inch barrel configuration is especially desirable, offering a refined balance of handling speed and sight radius, making it equally appealing to target shooters and those who valued a premium-quality working revolver. Colt’s adjustable rear sight, serrated ramped front sight, and glare-reducing matte rib further emphasize the revolver’s precision-oriented design.

This revolver remains in fine overall condition, retaining the vast majority of its original blue finish with only light wear consistent with careful use. The bore is mirror bright with sharp rifling, and the action exhibits solid lockup and correct function throughout. With its early production date, classic 4 inch configuration, and well-preserved condition, this 1962 Colt Python stands as a highly desirable example of one of the most iconic and finely crafted revolvers ever produced in the United States. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!

BF