Make: Colt

Model: Combat Python, I3630CP

Serial#: T74197

Year of Manufacture: 1988 (https://www.colt.com/serial-lookup)

Caliber: .357 Magnum

Action Type: Single/Double-Action Swing-Out Revolver with a 6-Round Cylinder and Extractor

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked "COMBAT PYTHON / *.357 MAGNUM CTG.*". The left side of the frame is marked with a Rampant Colt Logo. The serial number "T74197" is marked on the crane and the crane-cut. The right side of the barrel is marked "COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A.". The left of the trigger guard is marked with a "V" and the Verified Proof.

Barrel Length: 3"

Sights/ Optics: The front sight is a ramped blade with a red serrated plastic insert, pinned to the barrel's ventilated rib. The rear sight is a white outlined square notch adjustable for windage and elevation in a base pinned to the topstrap.

Stock Configuration & Condition/ Grip: The grips are two-piece checkered walnut with gold-colored Colt medallions. The grips have only a few scattered minor marks. The checkering is well defined. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips are in Fine-Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates 10 out of 10.

Overall Condition: The gun retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are only a few tiny marks and faint operational wear. The screwheads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, the revolver is 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 requirements.

Box Paperwork and Accessories: This revolver comes in a maroon cardboard Colt box with serial-matching label.

Our Assessment: In 1955, the United States launched the first nuclear-powered submarine, West Germany joined NATO, Disneyland opened to the public, 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 is exemplified both cosmetically and in operation. With barrel lengths ranging from 2.5" 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.

This example is one of 500 "Combat Pythons" ordered by the distributor Lew Horton (an additional 300 were made for the international market). The revolver is in Excellent condition, appearing to have seen little if any use since leaving the factory. The Colt Python revolvers are no longer being made like the originals, 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, making it difficult to bring oneself to actually fire a Python. This rare example will make a wonderful addition to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck!