Colt Python Model I3640 Blue 4″ .357 Magnum Double Action Revolver 1968 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,694.69

WOA#: WY240411RW083

Make: Colt

Model: Python

Serial Number: 76992

Date of Manufacture: 1968 ( bhttps://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 .357 / * .357 MAGNUM CTG. *”. The right side of the barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A.”. The flat under the crane and the crane are marked with the serial number. The sideplate is marked with a “Rampant Colt” logo. The left front of the trigger guard is marked with “VP” in a triangle and at the rear with “V”.

Barrel Length: 4″ vent rib barrel with full 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 blade 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 & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with silver-colored Colt medallions. The grips have even light handling wear with some discoloration that blends well with the grain of the wood. There are some light nicks and scratches, most on the bottom face of the grips. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good-plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There are a few spots of minor erosion and some stubborn fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8+ out of 10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 85% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning most edges. There is finish wear at the muzzle-end of the barrel and lug, more notable on the right. There is a nick on the outside edge of the muzzle (well outside the crown). There is handling wear in the backstrap and some wear on the trigger guard. There is a spot of wear on the right of the frame between the hammer and cylinder. There is some discoloration on the unfinished side-faces of the hammer. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is in Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when the trigger is depressed. The double action trigger is smooth. The single action is crisp. 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: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, 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 shows both cosmetically and in operation. With barrel lengths ranging from 2.5? to 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 being made (at least, not as well), so the price for these fantastic weapons are just going to continue to appreciate. The revolvers by themselves are becoming harder and harder to find, and this example is in Very Good condition. The revolver retains about 85% of its metal finish, a strong bore and great mechanics. Whether you’re looking for a great revolver for recreational shooting or to add to a Colt collection, this is a nice pony to add to any stable. Please see our pictures and good luck!

Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud