The 6-inch 3 5 7 model from 1953 shown with a 6-inch Python from 1978.
With side plates removed. Part for part, the same.
For that matter, the I-Frame 3 5 7 and Python are very little different than any of several other Colt revolvers built on the E-Frame since 1907. Top to bottom: Amy Special in .38 Special from 1915, Army Special in .41 Long Colt from 1925, Commando of World War II fame in .38 Special, Official Police in .38 Special from 1953, and a Officer's Model Match in .38 Special from 1957.
The E-Frame Colts all buttoned up.
Hate to say it but the Python really doesn't have anything over several of these older Colts with regards to smoothness of action or trigger quality. The best two are the 1925 Army Special and the 1957 Officer's Model Match. Next comes the 3 5 7 and the worn but fine NYPD Official Police. Then comes the Python.
The Python seen here in the photos is a good garden-variety factory revolver having as good an action as any of several other Pythons that I've seen through the years. Without a "trigger job" though, I'm not really certain at all that the Python is as uniquely fine as it's reputed to be.
Stock detail on the 3 5 7. The 1950s target stocks with the full-coverage checkering were phased out by 1961.
Features unique to this first-year-of-production 3 5 7
The Duo-Tone finish, seen in the cylinder flutes here. Colt discontinued the Duo-Tone finish for all revolvers the next year so only first-year 3 5 7s received the treatment.
The Accro-Sight base, rounded at the front. Only appears on first-year 3 5 7 revolvers. All succeeding years feature a sight base that is squared off in the front. This revolver's serial number is 2851.
First-year 3 5 7 revolvers uniquely sported a polished muzzle.
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