Colt Python Model I3660 6″ Blue .357 Magnum SA/DA Revolver, 1963 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,550.00
WOA#: WY240610RD001
Make: Colt
Model: Python, Model I3660
Serial Number: 28269
Date of Manufacture: 1963 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .38 Special/.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 “W”.
Barrel Length: 6″, Vent-Rib, Full Lug
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade pinned to the front of the rib. The blade is notched for a plastic insert that is not present. The rear sight is a square notch adjustable for windage and elevation in a base pinned to the topstrap.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with gold-colored Colt medallions. The grips have light handling wear. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches, most notable on the bottom face. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good 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 85% of its finish. The finish is thinning at most edges. There is some finish wear at the leading edges of the barrel and cylinder. The grip areas show handling wear. There is wear along the right of the barrel lug toward the muzzle-end. There are tool marks around the sideplate screw. There are some other scattered minor marks. The action shows operational wear including a turn-line on the cylinder. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The double action trigger is smooth. The single action is crisp. The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when the trigger is depressed. We have not fired this revolver. This revolver has a wide target style hammer and a serrated trigger. 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″, this example having a 6″ barrel, 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 the same as they were originally, 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, making it difficult to bring oneself to actually fire a Python. This revolver appears to have been carried and used some, but still locks up tight as a drum and has a bright bore with strong rifling. It has just enough operational and handling wear that it could probably be fired without losing value, making this a great option for collectors and shooters alike. Please see our pictures and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California. -Bud
