Colt .357 Magnum Model, Scarce 1 of 15,000, Blue 6” 6-Shot, DA/SA Double Action Revolver, MFD 1959 C&R
Sold For: $1,280.00
LSB#: 160725TG01
Make: Colt
Model: .357 Magnum
Serial Number: 18387
Year of Manufacture: 1959
Caliber: .357 Magnum & .38 Special
Action Type: 6-Shot, Double / Single Action, Swing-Out Fluted Cylinder Revolver
Markings: The left of the barrel is marked “COLT .357 / .357 MAGNUM CTG.”, the right is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. HARTFORD, CT U.S.A.”. The crane is marked with the serial number, found again on the crane flat, marked over “3”. The left side plate has a crisp Rampant Colt, the left of the frame is marked “VP” in triangle and “P”.
Barrel Length: 6” with Un-Shrouded Ejector Rod
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramp blade, integral to a base that is forged with the barrel. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched leaf in a base that is adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are smooth walnut with silver-colored Colt Logo medallions, which wrap around the front strap and butt of the grip frame. The stocks have been sanded down, the right medallion’s Rampant Colt is skewed in presentation; the stock’s wood shows scattered handling marks and faint sanding marks. The left panel has a crack from the top of the stock to the medallion and about ½” downward from the medallion. The stock shows scattered marks. The grips rate in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Factory Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 94% of its metal finish. The barrel has faint scuff marks, with flank wear at the muzzle, consistent with holster use; the left side of the barrel at the muzzle has a small spot of solid oxidation, also found on the underside in smaller spots; the underside of the trigger guard has a moderate sized spot as well. The surfaes only have a few scattered light handling marks and light edge thinning, most of the marks and wear present go unnoticed until close inspection. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine condition and would have rated in Fine Plus to Excellent condition but for the stocks.
Mechanics: The cylinder produces SOLID full lockup in all 6 chambers with a beautiful double and single action trigger pull. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: From R.L. Wilson’s Book of Colt Firearms, Page 401 “Colt’s “357” was a deluxe version of the Trooper, with target wide supr hammer, target stocks and chambering for the 357 Magnum cartridge. When introduced in 1954, it was the deluxe large caliber double action in the Colt line. However, in 1955 the Python appeared-a magnum handgun which quickly overshadowed its less appealing predecessor. In 1962 the decision was made to absorb the “357” into the Trooper line. The extra headaches of special roll dies, listings and advertising waere thus disposed of by a simple production changeover. Its limited manufacturing run of approximately 15,000 adds the “357” model to the list of cartridge Colt revolversin the “hard to find” category and comparable even to some of the percussion arms produced in the nineteenth century.” This revolver has about 94% of its beautiful blue finish remaining, along with a sharp, bright bore and unparalleled mechanical performance. We don’t see modern revolvers with this level of craftsmasnship. This revolver is sure to peak interest from the most demanding collectors and should live up to its legacy of collectability. Please see our pictures and good luck.
