Python Trifecta

posted on May 24, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
legends-in-arms.jpg
Michael Ives

This feature appears in the June ’16 issue of NRA America’s 1st Freedom, one of the official journals of the National Rifle Association. 

Recent arms industry fervor has centered on Colt’s line of “snake guns,” and the Colt Python .357 is one of the more eagerly sought-after revolver models.  

In the NRA National Firearms Museum galleries now there is an incredible trio of single-digit Pythons for visitors to behold. Serial numbers 2, 3 and 5 are currently part of the “Artistry in Arms” case. Number 2 was received in the original factory box from benefactor John Ying; number 3 was donated by Mark Caldwell; and Python number 5 is presently on loan from Caldwell. Each of these 6-inch barreled, blued-finish revolvers is in nearly new condition and they represent excellent examples of the earliest production run for the Colt Python. 

The NRA National Firearms Museum at NRA Headquarters in Fairfax, Va.; the NRA National Sporting Arms Museum at Bass Pro Shops in Springfield, Mo.; and the Frank Brownell Museum of the Southwest at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, N.M.; each have fine selections of historic arms on display. Admission to each is free, and donations are gratefully accepted. For more information, visit nramuseum.com, phone (703) 267-1600 or email [email protected].

Latest

The Armed Citizen
The Armed Citizen

The Armed Citizen® February 18, 2026

A man in his 70s was in his home in Jacksonville, Fla., shortly after lunchtime on Nov. 18, 2025, when an intruder broke in through a back window and demanded his keys and valuables.

The “L” in NRA-ILA Refers to Legislation, But Litigation is also Critically Important

Latest legislative news from inside the NRA Institute for Legislative Action

Video Interview: Buck Sexton Calls Gun Control a “Manufactured Delusion”

Buck Sexton, the radio host and author, has a new book out titled Manufacturing Delusion—How the Left Uses Brainwashing, Indoctrination, And Propaganda Against You. As Sexton is an ardent Second Amendment advocate and an NRA-certified firearms instructor, we decided to ask him if gun control is a manufactured delusion.

President’s Column | NRA 2.0 Transformations

As reported on Oct. 31, 2025, the NRA announced a major internal reorganization to modernize and increase efficiencies. This reorganization marked the first step in our effort to modernize and improve operations.

Standing Guard | The NRA Stands And Fights For Freedom

Every company, great or small, needs a realignment now and then. But, when a company has been around for nearly 155 glorious years, straightening the course can take a full reformation.

DOJ Civil Rights Division’s New Second Amendment Section Hits the Ground Running

Just over a year ago, a hostile federal executive branch had gun owners under siege on all fronts.

Interests



Get the best of America's 1st Freedom delivered to your inbox.