COLT Python I3681 .357 Magnum 8″ Nickel DA/SA Double Action Revolver
SOLD FOR: $3487
LSB#: 230913JD006
Make: Colt
Model: Python (I3681)
Serial Number: VA5213
Date of Manufacture: 1980 (COLT Serial Number 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 .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 crane cut and the crane are marked “VA5213”. The left side plate is marked with a “Rampant Colt”. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle and at the rear with “F”.
Barrel Length: 8” with full-length vent rib and underlug.
Sights/Optics: The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The front sight is a serrated ramp and is pinned to the top of the rib. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte finish to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut each with a Gold Rampant Colt medallion. The grips are free of any significant wear or damage. The checkering is sharp. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Nickel
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion but there is some scattered fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. Throughout the nickel there are minor scuffs and shallow hairline nicks. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Fine-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock-up is solid with no play when the trigger is depressed. The trigger is smooth in double action, and crisp in single action. We have not fired this revolver. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This Python includes its product matching Colt factory box and paperwork including the manual.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear-powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, the US dipped its toes into the Vietnam situation for the first time, and Colt began shipping the finest precision combat and target revolver ever made. Each revolver was hand-tuned at the factory and this attention to detail is exemplified both cosmetically and in operation. With barrel lengths ranging from 2.5? to 8? (this fine example is 8”) and with some of the finest machining and finishing ever seen in the industry, the Python has earned its reputation and continues to be sought after to this day. The Colt Python revolvers are no longer made like the originals, so the price for these fantastic weapons are just going to continue to appreciate. They are becoming harder and harder to find, making it difficult to bring oneself to actually fire a Python, should one lay their hands on an example. This Nickel revolver was made in 1980 and is notable for being a very desirable nickel example. Notable also is the high condition of the nickel finish which in all likelihood is as dazzling today as it was 43 years ago. This Python has been rather well taken care of and is truly lovely in the hand. This would be a welcome addition to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck!
-Greenfield
