Posted: 10/22/2006 5:47:59 AM EDT
| I'm looking to invest in a Python in the near future, but have a few questions. I've read the older 60-70's series are the most valuable/dependable versions. What versions seem to hold the highest value, long term ?? Older 4" or 6" blued, or satin nickel, or bright nickel plated, stainless steel ?? Anything I should be on the lookout for ?? |
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"dependable"? are you planning on shooting this "investment"? You are ONLY looking at Pythons? How about a Colt SAA? If you have access to a news stand or somewhere they sell magazines (perodicals) the "gun digest" (formerly Gun List) has a good article on collecting. When it comes to collecting, you need to do some research just like you started. Youve just scratched the surface too. I collect 22LRs and was in the beginning of collecting the Colt SA 22s. When i was buying them, i could get them for ~100+ and then Wilkersons book came out. Prices jumped to ~300~500 and now they are 600~1200 for NIB conditions. this was within 2~5 years the prices have soared. If you like the Pytons and are just going to collect them, i would suggest finding some good reference material and look at the variations made or at least listed. Not that you will find the rare ones, but you will have an idea on what was made and any changes so you can ID them easier also what was included and how it was boxed. check out the CCA. Colt Collectors Association. they have their meetings all around the country and you can pick their collective brains. BTW. Just because it isnt listed somewhere doesnt mean it wasnt made too. Did you know that there were Pythons with 3" bbs? those are rare too. Personally, i would stay away from "commeratives" unless they are somewhat personal to you. i feel they dont sell as easy as plain firearms. The older versions maybe more valuable due to the craftsmanship. all of the python were hand fitted. If you ever see a python in Colt Royal Blue, you will never forget and wish all blueing was of that quality. one last note. for "ivestement" purposes, i would stick to "NIB" or "LNIB" condition will ALL of the accessories at that time. you could always add some "shooters" too. if you keep them in good condition, they will still be valuable. |
| Thanks for the info 22LR... actually today at a local Gunshow I found a PERFECT NIB with Manual and box, '78 Vintage, 6" Royal Blued Python. It is unfired and doesn't have the first flaw in it's finish, anywhere! My Dad had one identical to it, when I was a kid and I'd always wanted to buy one too. I got it for $1100 out the door, which I think is a pretty good deal after some of the HIGH prices I see at EE, Gunsamerica.com, and Gunbroker.com selling pistols exactly like this for $1500. I'm also looking for a real clean low mile 4" Stainless or Nickel Python as a fun shooter. |
I believe there wasn't all that many 22LR Diamondbacks made. The Diamondback revovlers look exactly likely a smaller Python. I have a 6" blued Diamondbacks in 22LR and 38spl, good guns. I also have a nickeled 8" Python chambered in 38spl. Colt made in the mid-80s, they are not especially rare, but is interesting. |
I think the 22 DBs are more collectable, this is a my observation since i collect 22s and ive noticed over the last several years, they are harder to find especially the short barrels and more so for the Nickel finish. i believe the 38s will not be far behind if not already so. i dont know of any online source for colt pistol info. Wilkerson was doing some research on DA revolvers before he passed away and i asked his widow if anyone has p/u where he left off and the reply was no. I think it would be a hoot to do the research, but im not independantly rich to spend the time there in the archives. I think if you get any books on guns/collecting, you will get some basic info. Its like the Colt SAs in 22. most of the common types were the ~6" bbls, and the shorter or longer barrels were less common. but there are always exceptions. |
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"Is there a good place online to do some Colt pistol research ??" The Colt Forum has some people who collect Diamondbacks and other Colt's and are quite knowledgeable. www.coltforum.com/forums/ubbthreads.php It's a more technical site without the huge General Discussion area, and the usual "Gee, What's the best gun to buy" stuff. The discussion tends toward more technical information about collector's questions, and mechanical issues on Colt firearms. |
 or go to this link and see dozens of sweet Pythons Pythons |
 They aren't cheap by any means but they can still be had for a price... (link) Colt 3" Python |