Colt 6″ Blue Python Model & Box, .357 Mag MFD 1978 SA/DA Double Action Revolver, Box & Paperwork

Sold For: $2,750.00

LSB#: 170222RB04

Make: Colt

Model: Python

Serial Number: V21199

Date of Manufacture: 1978

Caliber: .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 left side of the frame is marked with a Rampant Colt logo. The crane cut and the crane are marked “V21199”. The left side of the grip frame at the top of the trigger guard is marked at the front with “VP” in a triangle.

Barrel Length: The vent rib barrel with full underlug is 6” in length.

Sights / Optics: This revolver is mounted with a square notched rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The front sight is a serrated ramp that is pinned to the top of the rib.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two piece oversized checkered walnut with a lacquered finish that enclose the front strap and the bottom of the grip frame. The tops of the grips have gold colored Colt medallions. There are a few spots of compressed checkers, most are still sharp. The fit is a little off and the grain appears to be a little off too. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.

Type of Finish: The finish on the barrel and frame is a high luster blue with a matte black finish on the top of the barrel rib and back strap.

Finish Originality: All Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 92% of its finish. The front of the barrel, underlug, the top of the front sight all show light patches of surface loss from holster wear. There are also spots of thinning on the front and rear edges of the cylinder. The cylinder shows a drag line. The checkering on the hammer is sharp as is the knurling on the ejector rod. The screw heads are sharp and the markings are clear. Overall, this revolver rates in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play whatsoever. The trigger is Extremely smooth in double action, and crisp and light in single action. The action functions correctly. We have not fired this revolver.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This revolver comes with the Styrofoam inserts, paperwork and outer sleeve with detached end label. These are provided as pictured.

Our Assessment: The Colt Python was first introduced in 1955, the same year as Smith & Wesson’s Model 29 .44 Magnum. The Python targeted the premium revolver market segment, 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. If this revolver is any example, they are certainly right! The bluing on Pythons is the deepest you will find on any revolver. This revolver has some wear, but nothing that turns this writer off. It is in Fine condition with an outstanding action and bore