Colt Python .357 Magnum 4” Single/Double Action 6 Shot Revolver 1961 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,001.00
LSB#: LSB260225GW015
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 14601
Date of Manufacture: 1961 / C&R
Caliber: .357 Magnum
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 side plate is marked with the Rampant Colt logo.
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver With Swing Out 6 Shot Cylinder
Barrel Length: 4” Vent-Rib, Full underlug
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade pinned to the top of the rib. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte finish to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are one-piece checkered rubber Pachmayr ‘Gripper’ with finger grooves, Pachmayr medallions, and speed loader cutout. There is light handling scratches and scuffs. The checkering remains sharp and defined. There are no rips or chunks missing. Overall, the grips rate in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is minor pitting at the muzzle end of the bore. There is some fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 65% of its original finish. There are scratches and handling marks. There is corrosion pitting across the metal surfaces. The right side exterior of the muzzle is deformed slightly. The finish has been smoked damaged. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are mostly clear, with the Rampant Colt logo becoming light. Overall, this gun rates in Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, though further inspection from a certified gunsmith would be beneficial. The cylinder lock up has very little play. We have not fired this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This 1961 Colt Python is a desirable early-production C&R example of one of the most famous double-action revolvers ever produced. Introduced in 1955, the Python represented Colt’s flagship .357 Magnum revolver, combining premium polishing and hand-fitting with a ventilated rib barrel, full underlug, adjustable sights, and the exceptionally smooth Colt “I-frame” action that helped make the model legendary among shooters and collectors. Early Pythons from the 1950s and early 1960s are especially sought after for their craftsmanship and polished Royal Blue presentation, and this example retains the classic 4″ configuration favored by law enforcement officers, sportsmen, and defensive shooters alike.
This revolver rates in about Good overall condition, retaining approximately 65% of its original finish with scratches, handling marks, corrosion pitting across the metal surfaces, and evidence of smoke damage affecting the finish. The exterior right side of the muzzle is also slightly deformed, while the Rampant Colt logo has become faint though the remaining markings are mostly clear and legible. The bore remains bright with sharp rifling, though there is minor pitting near the muzzle and some fouling present, rating 7/10 in this writer’s opinion. The Pachmayr Gripper stocks remain in Excellent condition, showing only light handling wear with no tears or missing material. Mechanically, the action functions correctly and the cylinder lockup shows very little play, though further inspection by a qualified gunsmith would be prudent given the visible exterior condition concerns. Even with its wear and finish damage, this remains a genuine early Colt Python with strong collector appeal due to its 1961 production date, 4″ barrel configuration, and iconic place in American revolver history. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! -MY