Colt Python Hunter 8″ Blue .357 Magnum Revolver & Leupold Scope, MFD 1980
SOLD FOR: $4262
LSB#: 210329HE04
Make: Colt
Model: Python Hunter
Serial Number: LA6975
Date of Manufacture: 1980 (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 HUNTER / * .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 “LA6975”. The left side of the frame is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left side of the grip frame at the top of the trigger guard is marked at the front with “VP” in a triangle and at the back with a “Y”.
Barrel Length: The vent rib barrel with full underlug is 8” in length.
Sights / Optics: The rear sight is a white outline square notch adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The front sight is a red insert ramp pinned to the top of the rib. There is a scope mounted to the top of the barrel rib marked “M8-2X EXTENDED E.R” at the objective and with patent dates and “MADE IN U.S.A.” at the eyepiece. The scope has a bronze medallion on the left side of the turret housing marked “COLT / LEUPOLD” and with the Rampant Colt logo. The scope has a few scattered light marks on the exterior, most notable at the left-front edge. The scope has a duplex reticle. The lenses could use a good cleaning, but are fairly clear. Overall, the scope rates in about Fine condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are black checkered rubber with gold colored Colt medallions on each side. They are marked “PRESENTATION GRIP / BY PACHMAYR” on the bottom. The grips have light handling wear with a few scattered light marks and an uneven edge along the loading scoop on the left at the top-front. There are no rips or tears. The checkering is well defined. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 96% of its finish. There are some scattered light nicks and scratches, most are on the sides of the barrel toward the muzzle-end. The cylinder has a thin, faint turn-line, mostly not through the finish. The sides of the hammer and trigger show minor operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in about Fine-plus condition.
Mechanics: The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play. The trigger is smooth in double action, and crisp and light in single action. 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: The installed scope is included as described. Also included is an aluminum combination-lock case. The case has no notable wear or damage, in Excellent condition.
Our Assessment: The Colt Python was first introduced in 1955, the same year as Smith & Wesson’s M29 .44 Magnum. The Python targeted the premium revolver market segment, and some firearm collectors and writers such as Jeff Cooper and Ian V. Hogg have described the Python as the finest production revolver ever made. If this revolver is any example, they are certainly right! The tight lockup, smooth action, long heavy barrel and factory installed Leupold scope make this a perfect package for the competition silhouette revolver shooter or hunter. The revolver is in Fine condition, showing wear consistent with gentle use. Please see our photos and good luck!