Colt Python Model I3660 Blue 6″ .357 Magnum SA/DA Revolver & Box, 1981

SOLD FOR: $1,926.00

WOA#: WY240324DH011

Make: Colt

Model: Python, Model I3660

Serial Number: K33836

Date of Manufacture: 1981

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, CONN. 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 “S”.

Barrel Length: 6” 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 gold colored Colt medallions. The left panel has a line of compressed checkers toward the bottom-rear. There is a small nick at the bottom edge of the right panel. The checkering is otherwise well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Very Good-Fine condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is a little stubborn copper fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 99% of its finish. There is no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when the trigger is depressed. The action functions correctly. 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: This revolver comes in a faux-wood cardboard Colt box with two-piece styrofoam insert. The label-end of the box has torn off, but is included, and the serial is matching.

Our Assessment: The Colt Python was first introduced in 1955, the same year as Smith & Wesson’s M29 .44 Magnum. The now discontinued Python targeted the premium revolver market, and some firearm collectors and writers such as Jeff Cooper and Ian V. Hogg have described the Python as the finest production revolver ever made. We tend to agree, and this is a great example. It is in Excellent condition with 99% of its finish, a great bore and strong mechanics. The 6″ barrel is a little bit long for carry, but is great for target shooting and could even be used for home defense. That said, in this condition, and considering that they aren’t making them like this any more, a collector will likely snap this one up. Please see our photos and good luck!

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