[pythonguy]

Hi,

Is a mint 1987 to 1990 6" colt python worth around $700?? Are they really that much less quality then a 1970 or earlier model, or is it a matter of judging each gun on its own merits?? Thanks for any comments.....

[dfariswheel]

All guns should be judged on their own merits.

I recently saw a man pass up an absolutely fantastic S&W M-19 because according to him, "It was made in a "bad" year, when S&W's were junk".

The fact that it was mechanically and cosmetically just great, didn't matter, it was"Bad".

[pythonguy]

I was hoping someone of your knowledge and experience would say that dfariswheel. I was also considering a 1960's model that wasn't as nice physically or mechanically and read alot on the forums that earlier is better, period. Thank you once again for your time and help.

[dfariswheel]

To be more clear, given a choice between two TOTALLY EQUAL condition Python's, I'd "probably" go for the earlier one, since they "usually" have a better polish and blue job.

The bottom line is, do an evaluation of the gun itself, not a serial number check.

[Standing Wolf]

To be more clear, given a choice between two TOTALLY EQUAL condition Python's, I'd "probably" go for the earlier one, since they "usually" have a better polish and blue job.

Yep. I'll add only this: the difference between a good Python and a mediocre Python is often only the single action trigger pull. All other things can be equal, but one can be much better to shoot.

[thatguy]

$700 is about ballpark for a good Python. Generally speaking, earlier guns show higher degrees of polish and shine and Colt has had erratic QC over the years but each gun must be weighed individually.

The blued Python is from the late 1970s and is fine. The nickel one is from the very late 1980s and does have one flaw in the finish that should have been caught at the factory. Looks like the plating was applied over a tiny spot of oil or maybe a partial fingerprint that didn't get wiped off the crane. Other than the one bad spot the nickel is fantastic. I got it for 1/3 off due to the blem and was happy with the deal. Both work great.

http://www.fototime.com/B9A7CE55AC63A31/standard.jpg

http://www.fototime.com/536D455CAB90891/standard.jpg

[pythonguy]

Nice Pythons thatguy!! I am in the process of buying a Python, it has to be shipped to my FFL. I am no expert on handguns, but there is just no other revolver that interests me except for the Python. I have a Kimber custom .45 and a Glock 9mm, but I need to collect Pythons!! Its become a sickness and I really have to calm down, this will be my third one this year!!! The other two were from 1980 and 1983, one was fired the other in the original box unfired. Both are mint and I am hard pressed to use them!!!

[thatguy]

IMHO the Model 27 Smith (-2 and earlier variations) rivals the Python in fit and finish. This one is a dash nothing from 1960.

http://www.fototime.com/0CAADB8AC453824/standard.jpg

[pythonguy]

It is a beautiful gun, although I never liked the small-ish grips. If I were to buy a different handgun it would be a model 27, or colt trooper. I just haven't come across one in the kind of condition/price I like........yet!

[Standing Wolf]

Its become a sickness and I really have to calm down, this will be my third one this year!!!

I'd be glad to buy three in a year if I could find the models and finishes I want at reasonable prices.

[pythonguy]

Hi Standing Wolf, I found the models and quality I wanted, I did pay a premium though as they were all in the $800.00 plus range with the unfired NIB from 1980 at $1000.00. The fired models were like new, and went for $850 and $900 for 1978 and 1983 models, respectively. They are all blued, I haven't picked up a SS or nickel yet, although I was looking. Think I'll just look for a while now, spent my bonus money for the year. :cool:

[tim71]

I've got on lay-a-way right now a 6 inch python in really good condition and an action that's exceptional even for a python. I paid $585.00 for it and I think it's my new sweetheart in my gun collection. Don't know when it was made but it's got the original wood grips. 1932xx is the serial number. Anyone know how these run?

Tim