Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Auction Company is pleased to present this HIGHLY SOUGHT-AFTER double-action revolver for a penny-start auction today; this is the Colt Python Elite!
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The Python continued as a production line gun until the late 1990s. With the Colt company in financial difficulties and losing some of its best craftsmen, Colt moved production into the Colt Custom Shop in 1997 and made it a custom-order-only revolver. To highlight this move, the Python had the name "Elite" added to the barrel, and it became the Colt Python Elite.
This example was manufactured in 1997, in the FIRST year of production at the Colt Custom Shop!
The owner states that this example remains New Old Stock and we see no evidence to indicate otherwise!
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Colt
Model: Python Elite
Serial: PN13908
Date of Manufacture: 1997
Caliber: .357 Magnum (.38 Special)
Finish: Royal Blue
Barrel Length: 4" Vent Ribbed
Optics/Sights: Pinned Orange Ramp Front with Adjustable White Outline Rear
Stock/Grips: The
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / The left side of the barrel is marked "PYTHON ELITE / *.357 MAGNUM*."
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Python, originating from a complex action design developed in the late 1890s, was renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship. Each revolver required extensive hand fitting, where oversized forged parts were meticulously assembled by skilled fitters through filing, stoning, and sometimes bending, ensuring optimal functionality. In pursuit of creating the finest revolver ever made, Colt elevated the Python by further refining and tuning its action to deliver an exceptional trigger pull. Initially, only two master craftsmen, Al DeJohn and another, painstakingly handcrafted every Python during its early production years.
Model: Python Elite
Serial: PN13908
Date of Manufacture: 1997
Caliber: .357 Magnum (.38 Special)
Finish: Royal Blue
Barrel Length: 4" Vent Ribbed
Optics/Sights: Pinned Orange Ramp Front with Adjustable White Outline Rear
Stock/Grips: The
Action: Double/Single-Action Revolver
Markings: Standard / The left side of the barrel is marked "PYTHON ELITE / *.357 MAGNUM*."
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Colt Python, originating from a complex action design developed in the late 1890s, was renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship. Each revolver required extensive hand fitting, where oversized forged parts were meticulously assembled by skilled fitters through filing, stoning, and sometimes bending, ensuring optimal functionality. In pursuit of creating the finest revolver ever made, Colt elevated the Python by further refining and tuning its action to deliver an exceptional trigger pull. Initially, only two master craftsmen, Al DeJohn and another, painstakingly handcrafted every Python during its early production years.
As demand surged, Colt transitioned the Python into standard production, marking a milestone in revolver history. Responding to market demands, Colt introduced the Python with a 4-inch barrel, unofficially referred to as the Colt New Police Python, tailored for police use. Subsequently, the introduction of a 2 1/2-inch barrel Python, initially conceived as a prank by two Colt managers, gained unexpected favor and prompted its inclusion in the lineup. Over time, the Python also became available in other barrel lengths, including rare configurations like the 8-inch and the elusive 3-inch versions.
Colt's dedication to meeting customer preferences extended to offering the Python in various finishes beyond the iconic Royal Blue, such as Bright Nickel, satin electroless nickel ("Royal Coltguard"), and later, satin and bright polished stainless steel options in the 1980s. While predominantly chambered in .357 Magnum, Colt experimented with other calibers like .22LR, .22 Magnum, .256, and .41 Magnum in limited experimental quantities, though these variants never entered full production.
Production of the Python continued as a mainstay until financial challenges and the departure of key artisans prompted Colt to shift production to the Colt Custom Shop in 1997. There, the Python transitioned into a custom-order-only revolver, rebranded as the Colt Python Elite to signify its exclusivity. Functionally identical to its predecessor, the Python Elite bore distinctive barrel markings to differentiate it from the standard model. The Python's storied legacy concluded with the cessation of production in 2003-04, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship, precision, and enduring popularity among firearm enthusiasts.
Contents:
This example will ship with the original matching factory-labeled case, factory test fire target, a copy of the Colt factory letter, manual, and all other paperwork pictured above.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
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About Us
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