Colt Python

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Dean C

New member
I was out yesterday looking for a .357 carry revolver. Found a Taurus 2" barrel but needed something a little longer. Next I saw a S&W 3" that looked good but when I did the "Jim March" check, the cylinder wouldn't lock thight.

Then the Colt Python. Cylinder thigh, no holster rub, 4" (like 3 but 4 will do) just a slight surface rust in a couple areas otherwise very good looking. Just got a quick look at it so I don't have alot of detail. My question here is the $675.00 price tag. Seems a bit high. What do you all think?
thanks for the input,
dean
 
Why not?

Hey! Consider the fact that you can still find a Colt Python in good condition, I'd say it is worth it. Unless you want to spend well over a thousand dollars for the Colt Python "Elite" (the one that is in production). I wish I can find one here in Canada where I live. But of course, there is nothing wrong with the "Elite" version except for the price tag. If I have got enough money for it, the first thing I will do is order one. That's one of the revolvers any "wheel gun" lovers will own. (or at least we want to own one)
 
Dean,

Pythons are expensive, but known for their smooth action, accuracy, and finish. Without seeing the Python you are looking at, it is hard to say what the actual value of that particular revolver is. If you are pretty satisfied that it is mechanically sound, then the price would be determined by the condition of the finish. From your description it sounds like this is a revolver falling somewhere around the 95% range, but you are in the best position to judge that. Here are the book values; 98%: $775.00, 95%: $675.00, 90%: $600.00. This would be for a Python manufactured between 1970 and 1996 and would have a letter prefix or suffix in the serial number. If it is a Python manufactured between 1955 and 1969, it will not have a letter prefix or suffix in the serial number. In that case it would be worth $800.00, $700.00, and $600.00 respectively. These prices are pretty much just an average price. It is not uncommon for prices to be higher in a particular area of the country. In a lot of places it is not unusual for Pythons such as this to be priced in the $800.00 to $900.00 range. But, it sounds like this one is priced to sell and if you could talk him down a little, that would be all the better.

Good luck and I hope this helps.
 
Um, rust? Pythons are very pricey but I'd have to get a really, really good price on a gun that had rust. I paid $500 for this 4" nickeled Python about 3 years ago from a dealer at a show. That was a good price. $675 isn't a bad price for a Python until I hear the word "rust."

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Rust would definately put it in the 80% or lower catergory. I would say the price is too high. Point out the rusts spots as you try to haggle a better deal.
 
I was able to pick this one new in box for 675.00 back in 2000. Course it
isn't a snub nose. Never have shot it. I thought I was making a good deal
as I had read Colt was going to stop making em. Guess it'll all work out.
Sorry about the others, didn't have a way to crop the pic, but I suppose
3 rampant ponys are better than one in some instances. ;)
90768282.jpg
 
I have bought two in the last few years. The twin of PIO's gun above with cocobolo "boot"grips from a biker friend who was getting divorce #3 and needed Lawyer money. Gave him $650 in NY for it.

Second gun is a 6" stainless with rubber grips I gave $700 for (Again in NY) Saw the same gun in another store marked $1100!!!

All the Pythons I have seen lately are in poor shape and over $800 :eek:

Really would like a Blued gun but...


The rust would probably stop me, although the price isn't bad.
 
Unless you want to spend well over a thousand dollars for the Colt Python "Elite" (the one that is in production)
Click to expand...

Wrong, Pythons are not in production for 2005.

You can spend the well worth 200 extra bucks and get a nice Python with no rust.

Remember, the shorter the barrel.. the higher the cost.

I see 6 and 8 inch ones on GunBroker go for 500-750 that are in excellent condition.
 
I looked at the Python again, armed with the advice and info. gathered here. The shop bumped the price up to $695.00 and wouldn't budge. I examined the rust specs closer. There were more than I had originally seen and based on what I've read in this forum, I would have to give it a 90%. Based on all this and the fact I'm not looking for a collector gun, it's staying in the shop.
(It was awful sweet though).
Thanks for the help guys,
dean
 
If a gun has ANY rust, it is not a 90% item. Also, Colt's cylinder timing tends to wear much sooner than on S&W and Ruger guns. The mechanism is also much harder to work on, and few of today's "gunsmiths" have any business getting inside a Colt revolver.

I'd suggest that you first learn more about revolvers, then buy another brand.

Lone Star
 
I have had a late 50's I belive (ser#16xxx) Python for over 15 years. Gun is an amazing shooter. It needed to be retimed when I aquired it, but it has been a workhorse. The Pythons are a bit delicate when compared to a Ruger or even a Smith. If you are looking for a knockaround carry revolver, I would suggest you skip the Python (or buy it anyways) and look for a good used Ruger or Smith. Way more inexpensive and you won't mind wearing it out.
 
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The more I hear from you all here on the forum, the more I'm glad the Python is at the store and not in my safe. I have turned my attention to Ruger for general fun and carry. SP or GP, both have pros and cons. Depends on which I find first and just have to have. Perhaps both? :rolleyes:
 
The Python is an excellent safe queen, beauty peice, range gun, and a helluva self defense peice. But for carry, I recommend against it.

The only Smith I have is the 386PD in 357, which I carry occasionaly, great magnum gun if you're immune to recoil, the thing is only 17oz if I recall.

I'm looking at getting a 686 7shot 357 in 4 inches.
 
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