Colt Python Model I3620 Blue, 2.5″ .357 Magnum SA/DA Double Action Revolver & Box, MFD 1985-87
SOLD FOR: $4,775.00
LSB#: 171104MS21
Make: Colt
Model: Python, Model I3620
Serial Number: T81306
Date of Manufacture: 1985-87 (Seven Serpents – The History of Colt’s Snake Guns, p331)
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 left 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 “V”. Under the grips, the left side of the grip frame near the butt is marked “J”.
Barrel Length: The vent rib barrel with full underlug is 2.5”
Sights / Optics: This revolver is mounted with a square notched, white outline rear sight adjustable for windage and elevation that is pinned to the top strap of the frame. The front sight is a serrated ramp blade with a red insert pinned to the top of the rib. The top of the barrel rib and the top strap have a matte black finish to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece service style grips which leave the front, bottom, and rear of the grip frame exposed. Each panel has a gold medallion with “COLT” over a rampant colt. Both panels have sharp checkering with no cracks or chips. Both panels are proud at the top and bottom, most noticeably on the bottom. Overall, the grips are in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: High Luster Blue
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 97% of its finish. The balance of the finish being light marks on the muzzle as from cleaning, some very light marks on the right side of the frame under the cylinder (not through the finish), a small scrach on the left side of the frame under the cylinder, and a pair of small scratches in front of the sideplate screw. All screwheads are sharp with only light tool mark on the sideplate screw. Overall, this gun rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The lock-up on this revolver is SOLID, with no play when trigger is depressed. The action functions correctly. We have not fired this revolver. This revolver has a wide target style hammer and a serrated trigger. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Original box, bag, and styrofoam inserts with paperwork still under red tape seal reading “IMPORTANT / READ INSTRUCTION MANUAL”. Box and paperwork are in about Fine overall condition.
Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, and Colt began shipping the finest precision combat and target revolver ever made. Each revolver was hand-tuned at the factory and this attention to detail shows both cosmetically and in operation. With barrel lengths ranging from 2.5″, such as this example, to 8″ and with some of the finest machining and finishing ever seen in the industry, the Python has earned its reputation and continues to be sought after to this day. The Colt Python revolvers are no longer being made, so the price for these fantastic weapons are just going to continue to appreciate. The revolvers by themselves are becoming harder and harder to find, one in this condition with original box and paperwork would be an excellent addition to any collection. Please see our pictures and good luck.
