1972 Colt Python .357 Magnum, 4-inch Blued DA/SA Revolver with Vent Rib and Adjustable Sights
This Hartford-built 1972 Colt Python in .357 Magnum features the desirable 4-inch barrel with ventilated rib and full underlug, Colt's I/E-frame with V-spring lockwork, and a premium high-polish blued finish often referred to as Royal Blue. It wears non-factory two-piece antler/stag-style grip panels and retains matching serials on the crane and frame.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling - Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: The frame and barrel show areas of pitting with associated finish loss and rub marks. The installed grip panels display handling wear and some discoloration.
What's Included
- Colt Python .357 Magnum revolver (1972)
- Two-piece antler/stag-style grip panels (non-factory, installed)
Manufactured in Hartford in 1972, this Python represents the classic configuration many enthusiasts seek: a 4-inch barrel paired with the model's signature ventilated rib with rectangular lightening slots, a full-length underlug, and an ejector-rod shroud. The balanced barrel length makes for a well-known Python profile.
Constructed of carbon steel throughout, the revolver wears Colt's premium high-polish blued finish commonly called Royal Blue. Correct rollmarks include "PYTHON .357 / .357 MAGNUM CTG." on the left barrel and "COLT'S PT. F. A. MFG.
CO. HARTFORD, CONN. U.S.A." on the right, with the Rampant Colt logo on the frame.
The action is double-action/single-action on Colt's I/E-frame with V-spring target-grade lockwork. Controls include the Colt pull-to-the-rear cylinder latch, a wide checkered hammer spur, and a smooth, curved trigger. The six-shot fluted cylinder has a knurled ejector-rod tip.
Sights are set up for precision: a pinned, ramped front sight and a fully adjustable rear sight. This arrangement complements the Python's ribbed barrel and underlug design.
This example is customized with non-factory two-piece antler/stag-style grip panels without Colt medallions. It also has matching serials on the crane and frame, consistent with original factory assembly practices.