Colt Python Question?

[M-58]

I rescued a Colt Python 4" blue with serial # 548xx that makes it a 1966 model from a local pawnshop. It's about 75- 80% shooter grade due to a lot of holster wear on the cylinder,front of the barrel, and trigger guard area. No pitting, just the bluing worn down to bare metal in certain places. It came with rubber grips, and it locks up tight. All in all I'm very pleased with it as it'll made a solid shooter. In addition, it has a hollow lug barrel and Ellison rear sights. while doing my bring home clean-up inspection on it, I found that the left side of grip at the bottom had INS factory stamped on it. Does this stamp indicate that this is an old Border Patrol revolver? I pulled the grips on my 1981 year model Pyton and it did not have this stamp. Does anyone know if Colt Pythons were issued to the Border Patrol during the mid 60's? Thanks in advance for any info.

 

[BADSBSNF81]

Perhaps someone over at coltforum.com would know. INS might be a factory inspection mark or inspector's initials.

 

[spwenger]

As Far As I Know...

...the USBP issued Colt New Service revolvers in .38 Special but never the top-of-the-line Python.

 

[cherryriver]

The "INS" mark is an internal Colt inspection mark and has no meaning as to ownership of the gun.
Bill

 

[dfariswheel]

As above, the "INS" stamp on the lower left side of the grip frame is a common Colt inspection mark found on many 1960's Colt revolvers.

Departments and agencies typically put identification marks on the back of the grip, bottom of the grip, or on the side of the frame where they'll be easy to see, not hidden under the grips.

 

[M-58]

Thanks for the quick response. I don't post much, but I learn something every time I log on. Ya'll got the answers alright! Thanks again!