Make: Colt

Model: Python, Model I3660

Serial Number: 02161E

Date of Manufacture: 1975

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Action Type: Single and Double Action Revolver With Swing Out Cylinder

Barrel Length: 6” 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 ramp 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. The grips have a few light marks, most notable is a nick at the bottom-front corner of the left panel. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in about Fine condition.

Also included is a set of Altamont checkered laminate wood panels with finger grooves and gold-colored Colt medallions. The additional grips have no notable wear or damage, only light handling marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the additional grips are in 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 the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 10 out of 10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 98% of its finish. The action shows minor operational wear. Otherwise, there are only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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 wood-grain cardboard Colt box with serial-matching label, an assortment of factory paperwork including manual and the additional grips described above.

Our Assessment: The Colt Python was first introduced in 1955, the same year as Smith & Wesson’s M29 .44 Magnum. The 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. We tend to agree, and this is a very neat example. While the model would be discontinued and later reintroduced, this is from the original production run.

Made in 1975, this Python has a 6" barrel and royal blue finish. The revolver has little in the way of wear or evidence of firing. It comes with standard grips as well as an attractive set of laminate wood stocks with finger grooves. The revolver comes with its original box which, along with its high condition, will make it just as well suited to a collection as it would as a shooter. Please see our photos and good luck!