Colt Python Model 6″ .357 Magnum DA/SA ‘Snake Gun’ Revolver MFD 1963 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,990.00
LSB#: LSB260225RB067
Make: Colt
Model: Python
Serial Number: 26942
Date of Manufacture: 1963 C&R
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
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 scratches and compression marks. There is also finish loss on both panels. The checkering is well sharp and well defined. There is a chip out the right panel at the finger well, and there are no cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good 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. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 97% of its finish. There are a few scattered minor nicks, small scratches and some light scuffing. There are a couple spots of finish loss at the muzzle. The cylinder has turn-lines and scratches. The screw heads are sharp, with only a couple showing signs of tooling. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this gun rates in Very Good-Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action does function, though should get a full disassembly cleaning due to varnished oil to function smoothly. The lock-up on this revolver is solid, with no play when the trigger is depressed. 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: None.
Our Assessment: Introduced in 1955, the Colt Python quickly established itself as the flagship of Colt’s double-action revolver line, representing the pinnacle of hand-fitted craftsmanship and precision engineering. Built on the I-frame and finished to an exceptional standard, the Python became synonymous with smooth actions, tight tolerances, and refined aesthetics. By 1963, production was firmly within what many collectors consider the classic era of Colt revolvers, with skilled craftsmen hand-tuning each action. Chambered in .357 Magnum, a cartridge introduced in 1935 and widely respected for its power and versatility, the Python offered both performance and accuracy in a platform that could also accommodate .38 Special for lighter shooting.
This example retains approximately 97% of its original blued finish, showing scattered minor handling marks, light scuffing, and some finish wear at the muzzle and cylinder consistent with use. The 6″ vent-rib barrel with full underlug provides excellent balance and sight radius, paired with a serrated ramp front sight and fully adjustable rear sight. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and rates 9.5 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion. The checkered walnut grips with gold Colt medallions show handling wear, including scratches, compression marks, finish loss, and a chip at the right panel finger well, though the checkering remains well defined. The action functions with solid lockup and no play when the trigger is depressed, and would benefit from an in depth cleaning to ensure optimal smoothness. This revolver stands as a strong representative example of Colt’s iconic Python from its early production period. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! -MY