Colt Python German Import .357 Magnum 6″ SA/DA Revolver Blued, MFD 1991
SOLD FOR: $1,530.00
LSB#: LSB251016KS014
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: KT2491
Date of Manufacture: 1991 / Modern (KB Date code)
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 “KT2491”. The left side of the frame at the chamber has a German Nitro Proof mark, a crosshatched shield of the Munich proof house and a “KB” date code indicating the year of import as 1991. Finally, there is a mark on the barrel beside the three marks where the barrel passes through the frame. That mark appears to be from Helmut Hoffman GmbH, the German sporting goods firm that imported this Python to Germany. 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 “P”. There is also a U.S. import mark on the bottom of the barrel for “TIA MINOT ND”.
Barrel Length: 6″ Vent-Rib with Full Underlug
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated, ramped blade with an orange insert 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 two-piece checkered rubber with finger grooves and gold-colored Colt medallions. The grips have very minor handling marks with some wear marks on the butt. The checkering is sharp. Overall, the grips are in Very Good Plus 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 fouling present in the lands. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 96% of its finish with some smudges on the frame. There are drag marks on the rear face of the cylinder. The cylinder has a turn-line present and there are thin carbon rings on the face of the cylinder. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. There are light handling marks and smudges on the finish. 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. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Original Colt factory box
Our Assessment: The Colt Python has long been regarded as the pinnacle of American double action revolver craftsmanship, and this 1991 blued example represents the model during its late production maturity. Introduced in 1955 as Colt’s flagship revolver, the Python was conceived as a premium target and sporting arm rather than a utilitarian duty gun. Extensive hand fitting, deep polished bluing, and an action celebrated for its exceptionally smooth double action pull and crisp single action break established the Python as the benchmark by which all other double action revolvers were measured. By the early 1990s, Colt’s production reflected decades of refinement while retaining the visual elegance and mechanical sophistication that defined the model.
What distinguishes this revolver is its documented German import history, placing it within a comparatively scarce group of Pythons destined for the European market. This example bears correct German Nitro proof marks, the Munich proof house shield, and a KB date code confirming proofing and importation in 1991. Markings associated with Helmut Hofmann GmbH, a major German sporting arms importer supplying civilian, police, and military markets, further establish its international provenance. These export Pythons reflect Colt’s continued global prestige during the final years of Cold War era firearms trade and add meaningful collector interest beyond standard domestic examples.
Condition remains strong, with excellent finish retention, crisp markings, and a mirror bright bore that reflects careful maintenance. Light handling marks and normal cylinder wear are consistent with responsible use, while the presence of the original Colt factory box adds completeness that is increasingly difficult to find. Taken as a whole, this blued German import Colt Python stands as a compelling example of late production Colt craftsmanship paired with documented European proof history. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and best of luck with your bids!!!
BF
