Colt Python .357 Magnum 4” Single Double Action Revolver Nickel, MFD 1979
SOLD FOR: $1,433.99
LSB#: LSB250825JP176
Make: Colt
Model: Python, Model
Serial Number: V87486
Date of Manufacture: 1979 / Modern
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 “V87486”. The sideplate is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle.
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 one-piece checkered rubber overmolded Pachmayr Grips with finger grooves. There is faint handling wear. The checkering is well defined with signs of moderate wear. There are scratches on the bottom of the butt. There are no cracks. 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 no erosion in the bore. There is light fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 90% of its finish. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There are significant carbon rings around the face of the cylinder chambers and there is carbon build up on frame bear the breech. There is some oxidation present on the cylinder flutes and in the cylinder stops where the finish has worn. There is minor dulling of the finish throughout. There are light handling marks and faint scuff marks. 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: This revolver comes with an owner’s manual.
Our Assessment: The Colt Python has long been regarded as the pinnacle of double-action revolver craftsmanship—an American icon introduced in 1955 as Colt’s flagship premium revolver. Built on the “I” frame, it was hand-fitted, meticulously tuned, and finished to a standard that set the benchmark for revolver quality. This 1979 production 4-inch model features the classic full underlug and ventilated rib, balancing recoil while giving the Python its unmistakable silhouette.
Chambered in .357 Magnum—a cartridge born from the 1930s quest for greater velocity and penetration in law enforcement revolvers—the Python delivers both power and precision, capable of firing .38 Special ammunition for lighter target work. The bore is bright and sharp, rating 9/10, and the revolver retains approximately 90% of its finish with only light handling wear. The tight lockup, smooth double-action pull, and crisp single-action break embody what collectors refer to as “Python perfection.” This example represents one of the finest expressions of Colt’s craftsmanship before the original Python line ended in 1999—a truly classic revolver that remains the standard by which all others are judged. Please view our high quality photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids! –
BF
