Guns International #: 101514741
Seller's Inventory #: 20-6277

Category - Colt Revolvers - Python - .357 Magnum Revolvers

Category
Colt Revolvers - Python
.357 Magnum Revolvers

Colt Python 357 Magnum 6” Blued Made 1960

Description:
The Colt Python! A name that has grown in status over the many years since its introduction and discontinuance so as to be near legendary. The Python is often considered the “Cadillac” of revolvers (in modern terms, think “Ferrari”). Designed to best any 357 Magnum chambered revolver in production at the time, production began in 1955. Built originally of carbon steel in either a blued or nickel finish, a stainless version was added in 1983. The stainless version was produced until 1996. The original carbon steel models lasted in general production until 1998. That same year, the stainless model was featured in the famous Microsoft PC game Half Life, which is considered the Python’s first (of many) video game appearance. In Hollywood, a director once said that in the 1960s and 70s, a Python was usually chosen whenever a visually impressive pistol was wanted. Such media depictions of the Python have only added to its mythos over the years. The Python is most easily recognized by its vented rib, though many Colt revolvers later used this same feature. Pythons are known for their extreme accuracy. Part of the reason for this is, Colt was famous for intentionally under sizing their bores to increase the accuracy of their revolvers. A tighter barrel means greater control over the bullet via a squeezing effect. In general, the Python’s grooves should be roughly .352 inches instead of .357 inches in diameter. Another reason for the Python’s exceptional accuracy lies in the basic Colt design. When the revolver is at full cock, just as the trigger is pressed, the cylinder locks up for the duration of the hammer strike. Other revolvers have a hint of looseness even at full-cock. In addition, the gap between the cylinder and forcing cone is very tight, limiting the amount of gas escaping and maximizing the amount of propellent gases inside the barrel. Effectively, the maximization of gases in the barrel increases the velocity as much as possible within the respective barrel length. The longer the barrel, the higher the velocity and accuracy. This Python has a four-digit serial number and was made in 1960. As such, it features the rear Accro sight with a hump and solid barrel under-lug. Previously made Pythons had a flat sight leaf and a hollow under-lug. This Python appears to have been used for its intended purpose of being a firearm instead of being a safe queen as most Pythons are. While such Pythons look fantastic, they have no history to them. The action is as crisp as you would expect a Python to be and lock up is tight. The front sight has been cut down in the rear, likely to provide a different sight picture. Since the front sight on a Python is held in place by two pins, it is removable and can be replaced. There is a sufficient amount of bluing loss on the frame to make this Python a shooter more than a collector’s piece. There is a notable turn ring on the cylinder and some “holster wear” on the barrel and under-lug. There is bluing loss on the trigger, trigger guard, and backstrap. There are two unusual spots of loss on the left-hand side of the frame, one below the rear sight, and a much smaller one to the right of the Colt Pony. The bore is in excellent condition. There is some powder residue present but no rust or pitting. There are powder burns on the front face of the cylinder. The grips are sadly not the original factory types. They are target type grips with a thumb rest. There is a visible gouge on the front face of the left grip. It is possible this revolver was used in PPC competitions as the Python was favorite choice for this type of competition in its early years thanks to its heavier barrel and increased accuracy. These snake guns are going up in price all the time. What originally went for hundreds of dollars is now going for thousands of dollars. Buy one while you still can.

SOLD

Handgun Caliber: .357 Magnum
Manufacturer: Colt's PT. F.A. Mfg. Co.
Model: Python
Serial Number: 9267
Bore: Rifled
Chambers: 6
Ejectors: Manual, simultaneous 6-round ejection
Condition: Good
Barrel Type: Full-lug, Ribbed
Action: Double/Single Action
Triggers: .265 inch (6.73mm) serrated
Stock: Wood, target type w/thumb rest
Rib: Vented
Finish: Blued
Sights: Accro rear sight, modified front sight, sight radius 7.6 inches (193mm)
Manufacture Date: 1960