Colt Python Target 8″ Blue .38 Special No Reserve

This 1980 Colt Python Target is chambered in .38 special and shows off a full 8” Ribbed Barrel. This Gun features walnut target grips, with inlaid Colt Rampant Pony medallions in gold on each side. The Frame features the standard Accro adjustable rear site and at the end of the 8″ barrel the serrated ramped front sight. The Colt Python itself, as many know, is one of the finest revolvers ever made. The Python Target would be no exception to the quality standard of the Colt Snake Series Revolvers. There are a few differences between the target model and the standard production run of pythons which includes the .38 special chambering, and the 8” barrel and low production quantities. When these Python targets were produced, they saw less than optimal sell-through rates, and many were cut down to shorter barrel lengths and sold. Blued Guns saw around 3,489 made and nickel around 251. This Gun is in excellent condition and would be considered a notable example for any discerning collector. This Lot is complete with the factory box, Styrofoam inserts with the matching label, original Colt Python user manual, and yellow hang tag.  

Overall, the gun is displayed in excellent condition and as mentioned before is a notable example of a Python Target. Any wear or blemishes are hard to notice at a distance. Noting that the leading edges are sharp, and the finish is in excellent condition throughout the entirety of the firearm. Superficial marks can be found upon extremely close observation and should be noted as common due to the age of the firearm. Some would classify this gun as a New in Box (Old Stock).  At Safe Queens, we prefer the photos to do the talking… 

The Python has been taken care of over the years and kept oiled while in storage. On the ejection side of the frame near the barrel, a small faint scratch can be noticed on the raised portion of the frame. The rampant colt hallmark shows crisp sharp lines without washing out suggesting the firearm is in its original finish. A small blemish can be noticed on the grip just north of the Medallion.

The Barrel markings are crisp and clean reading without issue “PYTHON TARGET” “.38 SPECIAL CTG” Framed in stars. The ribbed barrel’s top edges are sharp throughout, in addition to the underlug showing no noticeable blemishes. The opposing side of the barrel can be seen in the gallery, and it also clearly reads “COLT’S PT.FA.MFG.CO.HARTFORD, CONN.U.S.A“ 

The muzzle end of the Barrel shows sharp edges, and no noticeable blemishes are noted, the same can be noted for the ramped front sight, the rivets are all sharp and the leading edges show no nicks or holster-type wear. The bore still shows excellent condition, with strong rifling and a bright display. 

The serial matches the box and throughout the firearm, on both the frame and the swinging arm. The Cylinder is in great condition only a faint drag line can be spotted.

The opposing side of the revolver shows clean throughout the finish with no blemishes to note. The screw heads through the frame and grip show sharp edges and no tool marks. 

The back strap and rear sight show very clean, without any marks to note. The hammer’s finish is clean and polished, and the knurling is sharp. Follow the gun down to the back strap again, zero notable marks, and the factory walnut grips also sharp checkering along with a tight-looking fit.