1975 colt trooper 357
Still have it, bought some nice cocabola grips for it, also prior to that, some pachmyrs, but still have originals. It was my high school graduation gift. Interesting story on several levels. First, i had asked for a. Python. Now, my father was a first generation ( my grandfather immigrated from Sicily). Raised as he was, he really wanted to buy top of the line, but the immigrant upbringing always won out. For instance, he always wanted a S&W model 59,, but just couldnt spring for that price tag,, instead, he payed slightly less and bought 2 model 39's. So with that in mind, one day just prior to graduation, i go to the nearby RICH's department store( yes,,, back then, they had sporting goods AND FIREARMS!) and to my surprise, the Colt Python i went weekly to salivate over, had a "SOLD" tag on it and MY name under that!!
I kept quite and didnt let on that i was aware of my gift.
So graduation comes, get to opening gifts, and sure enough, there's a wrapped gift in the EXACT shape and size as a Colt Python box. I snicker to myself and save that package for last.
Trying to act nonchalant, i slowly , with little regard begin to unwrap my new PYTHON,,,,, only to discover my PYTHON is a TROOPER!! The immigration buy down bit me. I think i was able to keep my slight disappointment from showing, and years later, we laughed many times , once i revealed my story. But now, i wouldnt trade my Trooper for 100 pythons. It will go to my son with the story of my first firearm and graduation gift in tow.
