Rare Colt Python Target Model I3682 8″ Blue .38 Special Revolver 1980
SOLD FOR: $2628
LSB#: 230721BY001
Make: Colt
Model: Python Target, I3682
Serial Number: VA5412
Date of Manufacture: 1980 (https://colt.com/serial-lookup)
Caliber: .38 Special
Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver With Swing Out Cylinder
Barrel Length: 8″ 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, ramped 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. There are a few scattered minor marks, mostly blending with the pores in the wood grain. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. The cylinder has a faint turn-line, mostly not through the finish. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this revolver is 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, and an assortment of factory paperwork including manual. The box does not have a label, showing moderate storage wear, one of the small ears has torn off (but is included) and there are some tears and tape-repairs.
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. This is a particularly rare example, a Python Target model. With the exception of prototypes, the Python was chambered exclusively in .357 Magnum or, on the Target Models only, .38 Special. With fewer than 4,000 Python Target revolvers made, this is an uncommon opportunity for the Colt collector. This example is in Excellent condition with minor wear in the stocks, almost none in the metal, a great bore and strong mechanics. It will be a great snake to add to the pit. Please see our photos and good luck!
Please forgive any typos, I was educated in California -Bud
