Found a Colt Python for $500, need to know what things to inspect

[The Real Hawkeye]

Check out the bore for any swells. Sometimes they are hard to see. This is the result of firing a too light target load, causing the bullet to get stuck halfway down the barrel. Next round fires, also a light target load. Result is a swelled bore. If magnums had been fired under those circumstances, it would have been an exploded barrel.

 

[XavierBreath]

I would never reblue that Python! It might look nicer, but it will be worth less. It would also become a range princess rather than a gun you can carry and not worry about.

You got a great deal. Don't ruin it with a reblue!

 

[DogBonz]

WHAT?

Colt charges 280 for the reblue. Add an additional 125 for recutting the roll marks.

So, they remove the roll marks when they reblue?

 

[Socrates]

I'd ship that gun to Jack Huntington Advanced Gunsmithing, (530)268-6877, and have him go through it. I don't know what he charges for rebluing, but, he does fantastic work.

He worked for Colt for 9 years, so he knows their guns.

Here's an example of a reblue he did for me on a 45 Seville:

This gun has the best blue job I've EVER scene, period.!!! Looks like a deep blue lake...


That's a presentation grade finish.

S

 

[winchester62]

grips

Did you not get the original grips with this gun? Hate to say it but it makes what would have been a decent deal rather mediocre. You still have a great shooter that you don't need to baby, but those grips (originals) are selling for 200+. Either way - don't worry now. Just shoot the heck out of that thing and enjoy it!

 

[4v50 Gary]

At $500 you did good.

 

[Ohen Cepel]

You did very well!

It's worn, but looks like honest wear and you have a Python. Many lesser guns today are selling for much more.

I would be happy to give you a 10% return on you money if I lived in you neck of the woods for it

 

[Gordon]

FWIW: I just saw a 6" Python in much nicer condition that this one for $650. It also has Pach grips and the rear sight pin has scratches around it. :banghead: Other wise it is tight, wonderful blue and a velvety action. I think it is a late 60's gun. 831-722-6945 this is in Ca.dealer(Central Calif.), out of state sale would NOT be taxed or transfer fee (from Ca.)in Ca would be. I already have a Whitetailer in the Haliburton box and a nice old 2.5".

 

[vynx]

Gordon - I thought a dealer in Cal could only sell handguns on the DOJ approved list? I saw they have a Colt Python on the list but the model number & description is I3060CS Python / Stainless Steel.

As I understand it any other model, such as you mentioned, can only be solf private party face to face, consignment or out of state. A dealer cannot ship it to an FFL in state for the transfer even. I'm not an expert - just what my FFL told me.

$650 seems like a great price for Cal. - I bought a re-finished satin nickle 1976 colt python 6" barrel with Hogue grips for $750 - not a great deal but its ok.

 

[FCinCA]

When they do the reblue they have to strip the gun down by a polisher. This smooths out the roll marks and (in some cases if not done correctly rounds the corners). A recut is recommended but not necessary.

FC