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Colt Python Value

vepr762
I have a 357 Magnum Colt Python handed down by my dad which is nickel plated and has pearl handels. According to the serial number, it dates back to around 1968. It is in good condition, and I am wanting to find out a ballpark figure on it's worth.
Tad
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8 comments

Date Votes
  • vepr762
    I always wanted a Python and finally bought one, but am stuck in a quandry. I need some help from the experts out there...please.

    Here is what I have:

    Serial number dates it to 1961. 6" barrel with the lands in GREAT shape. There is some slight holster wear on the muzzle and a 1/4" patch on the front of the trigger guard. Pachmyr grips and no box. There is no wobble in the cylinder...yet.

    Here is my quandry:

    I have never considered myself a collector, but rather a shooter. I paid just under $600 for it and based on what I have seen in the auctions, it seems to be a fair price. In 7 years it hits that 50 year old mark. Will the value increase enough to justify storing it or can I use it as a shooter, hopping that if I load low velocity 158 grain loads that I won't screw it up?

    Thanks in advance.
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  • gap1916
    First let me welcome you to GB. I would say continue to use it as a shooter. For collecting and this is just me speaking, I would look at one that is new or in pristien condition with box and all the papers. My 2 cents [8D]

    Greg
    Former Marine
    A N G L I C O
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  • Xracer
    Ah yes.....that's always the dilemma, isn't it? To shoot, or not to shoot, that is the question!

    First, the Python is one helluva strong gun. Don't worry about full power loads.

    Second, in addition to being strong, it's about the smooooooothest shooting piece ever made. Not to shoot something that nice is almost a crime!

    Sooooo....take good care of it, but by all means, shoot it!
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  • vepr762
    Thanks guys! I'll have fun developing loads that it likes.
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  • manderson
    I agree with gap1916...if you want a collector, make it a mint NIB or LNIB with no blemishes or evidence of being fired. They are high dollar. I would never pay the high prices I see for some with holster wear. $600.00 is a good price for a great shooter, especially the older 1961 date. Have fun!
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  • chinook001
    I have a similar dilemma only I would like to purchase a new python elite. I enjoy high quality and aesthetically pleasing firearms, but I hate to see a firearm that was designed to function as well as it looks not get that opportunity. (Plus I love to shoot)
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  • vepr762
    Range Report Time

    This probably was a duty weapon. It was sighted in for dead center aim. I adjusted the sights so my point of aim was at 6 o'clock and was able to get 2" groups, from 25 yds off of sandbags, using some leftover loads that I had worked up for the S&W 686. The action is UNBELIEVABLE. I don't think I have ever fired a revolver with a stock or custom trigger job like this. I now understand the hype about older Python craftsmanship. This is definitely a shooter that needs to have loads worked up for it.
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  • duckhunter
    IN THIS CONDITION YOU HAVE SHOOTER. ENJOY

    I WOULD RATHER BE DUCK HUNTING.
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