Colt Python Bright Stainless Steel 8" .357 Mag. Revolver, 1996 Production
Manufactured in 1996, this Colt Python is the scarcer factory Bright Stainless Steel (BSS) variant, part of Colt’s famed “Snake Gun” line. The 8-inch vent-rib barrel delivers the longest sight radius offered on a Python, while the mirror-polished stainless finish and low round count make it an eye-catching, highly collectible example.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Very light scratching and blemishing are present on the bright stainless surfaces.
What's Included
- Colt Python owner's manual
- Blue Colt plastic hard case
- Factory Colt cardboard outer sleeve with handwritten end label
The factory BSS finish was produced in far smaller numbers than the standard Royal Blue or brushed stainless Pythons, adding genuine rarity for collectors focused on late-production guns.
The 8-inch barrel features a vent rib and full under-lug, balancing the revolver and helping manage recoil when firing full-power .357 Magnum loads. Its length also maximizes velocity and provides a long, glare-reducing sight plane.
Colt’s double-action/single-action mechanism remains smooth and consistent, complemented by a fully adjustable Elliason rear sight and a pinned, serrated ramp front sight for precise target work.
Black neoprene target grips with Colt medallions offer a comfortable, secure hold without distracting from the revolver’s high-polish finish. Stainless construction throughout resists corrosion while maintaining the iconic Python lock-up and accuracy.
With its PN-prefix serial denoting 1996 production and end-of-run legacy status, this Bright Stainless Python represents a hard-to-find opportunity for enthusiasts seeking a standout example of Colt’s legendary revolver.