COLT PYTHON ELITE

Colt first produced the Python in 1955. Its appearance was distinguished by its ventilated ribbed barrel with a full underlug. Its performance was distinguished by its exceptional target trigger and "Swiss watch" action. The Python models are hand-fitted pieces of art.

The Python was originally available in Colt's Royal Blue, a superbly deep and shiny finish that is the result of fine hand-polishing the metal before the bluing is applied. It was also available in a chrome-like nickel finish (see "beauty" photo below), which was discontinued in 1984, when Colt began offering the Python in a highly polished "Ultimate" stainless finish. Colt continued to produce the Python in Royal Blue and satin stainless until the end of Python production in 2005, when the company decided that it could no longer produce a hand-fitted target revolver like the Python and sell it at a price that most people would pay.

The Python was offered in 2.5 inch, 3 inch, 4 inch, 6 inch and 8 inch barrels. The 3 inch barrel is the rarest of the lengths. Colt also produced some limited production Pythons, such as the Python Hunter, which had an 8 inch barrel and came with a 2X Leupold scope, all packaged in an elite aluminum Halliburton case. Also offered was the Target Special, with an eight inch barrel and specially tuned trigger.

In 1997, Colt came out with the Python Elite. It had a satin stainless finish, and the grips were laminate wood with finger grooves (see photo above). Blued Pythons were a custom shop order only.

By the end of production in 2005, a new in box Python was selling for $1200 to $1500. Used models could be found for less than $1000, although "as new" older models fetched prices as much as or even more than actual new models.

As you might expect, prices for Pythons shot up after Colt announced it was discontinuing production. Today, a Python in decent condition can be found for $1200 to $2000, although models in excellent to new-in-box condition like the one below are going for $2500 to $4000.

COLT PYTHON FEATURES:

• .357 Magnum
• Target hammer
• Serrated service trigger
• Ribbed barrel
• Single / Double Action
• Walnut grips
• Red ramp front sight
• White outline adjustable rear sight

PYTHON ELITE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Models: I3040CS, I3060CS, I3640CS, I3660CS
Name: Python Elite
Frame material: Stainless steel or Carbon steel
Frame finish: Stainless steel or Blue
Barrel lengths: 4", 6"
Overall length: 111⁄2", 131⁄2"
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Capacity: 6
Hammer: Target
Trigger: Serrated, service
Action: Double / Single
Front: sight Red Ramp
Rear sight: White Outline Adjustable
Grips: Walnut

Click here to visit Gunshopfinder.com's Colt page. Or to find a Colt dealer near you, select a state and then click "Submit."

Colt Python Reviews:

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
By Alan K, Flint, MI
April 13, 2011

Primary use: Target Shooting

"I bought my Python way back in 1985. There is no way I would ever sell it. The Python is the Cadillac of revolvers, just like everybody says. My Python will out shoot any revolver I've ever tried. I love it."

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
By Docmag, Montgomery, AL
August 12, 2011

Primary use: Target Shooting

"I have multiple examples of Pythons. They were made between the late 1950's through mid 1970. They have given outstanding service. They could not have better fit and finish or be more accurate."

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
By IndependentRealist, Phoenix, AZ
September 17, 2011

Primary use: Defense/Law Enforcement

"I carried this model Colt for a couple years concealed and in my shop. It is comfortable in the right quality holster and gives a pleasent sense of security all day long. I wanted the series 70 pistol. I know this gun and am comfortable with its action and design."

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5
By Python, Brazil, IN
September 29, 2011

"I purchased my Python 6" in blue in the early 70's for less than $300. I have been offered a lot of bucks for this weapon but would never think of selling it. The action is smooth as silk, which I have never found in another hand gun. This is without a doubt the Cadillac . My son will inherit this."

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