Colt Python Model .357 Magnum/.38 Special DA/SA 6″ ‘Snake Gun’ Revolver
SOLD FOR: $1,601.99
LSB#: LSB260226JD001
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 35751E
Date of Manufacture: 1976 / Modern
Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special
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”, and on the frame near the cylinder is the Rampant Colt logo. The right side of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.”. The inside of the crane cut and crane arm is marked with the serial number. Each grip panel has an inlaid gold Rampant Colt medallion.
Barrel Length: 6” Vent-Rib 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 two-piece checkered walnut with gold-colored Colt medallions. There are minor finish imperfections on each panel at the top of the backstrap serrations. The checkering is well sharp and well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is minor fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. There is minor handling wear, with faint scratches on the underlug. There is some finish loss on the right side of the frame near the grip, as well as at the muzzle. There is a light turn line on the cylinder. There is operational wear on the crane arm and ejector rod. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this gun rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action does function 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: Colt blue plastic case (not serial matching).
Our Assessment: The Colt Python stands among the most iconic American revolvers ever produced, introduced in 1955 as Colt’s flagship double action .357 Magnum. Hand-fitted by Colt’s skilled craftsmen and built to an exceptionally high standard of polish and mechanical refinement, the Python quickly earned a reputation for its smooth action, outstanding accuracy, and unmistakable profile defined by the vent rib barrel and full underlug. Chambered in .357 Magnum, the cartridge introduced in the 1930s as one of the first true magnum handgun rounds, the Python became synonymous with premium revolver performance during the golden age of American wheelguns. By 1976, when this example was produced, the Python had firmly established itself as the crown jewel of Colt’s famous Snake Gun family and one of the most desirable commercial revolvers in the world.
This 6 inch example remains in excellent condition with strong original blue finish retention and only light evidence of handling and operational wear. The deep Colt blue is complemented by attractive checkered walnut target stocks with gold Rampant Colt medallions, while the ventilated rib, adjustable sights, and full underlug create the elegant silhouette collectors immediately recognize. Minor finish wear at the muzzle and near the grip frame, along with a light cylinder turn line, reflect careful use without detracting from the revolver’s overall presentation. The bright bore, sharp rifling, and correct mechanical function further reinforce the revolver’s quality and preservation. Few revolvers capture the look and feel of classic American craftsmanship like a vintage Colt Python, and this 1976 example embodies the prestige, refinement, and enduring appeal that continue to make Pythons among the most sought-after Colt revolvers ever manufactured. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! -MY