1955 First Generation Grips - Pictures

2367 Views 14 Replies 8 Participants Last post by mikegs430, Dec 7, 2013

mikegs430

Discussion Starter · Nov 29, 2013

5

In an earlier thread I was asked by the Judge to post some more detailed pictures of the grips that are on Python Serial #21. Below are my observations.

1) There is no "fitting ledge" on the grips
2) the medallions sit above to almost flush to the surface of the grips
3) there are no serial numbers written on the inside, just a stamp on each grip. The RH grip has a "J" Impression stamp and the LH grip has "L"(or could be an "I" or "E" ) you be the judge
4) The fitting and mating of the right hand and left hand grip is exceptional
5) Both Left & Right had grips appear to have been crafted form a single wood blank. The grain matches all the way across

I have not cleaned these grips but I think that they would show more of the wood grain if I did. I am frankly afraid of ruining them if I cleaned them. in their current state they look excellent and the gun and the grips have survived remarkably well for being 58 Years old.

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prostrok

· #2 · Nov 29, 2013

Their only original once!

Collects

· #3 · Nov 29, 2013

Mike, those stocks are spectacular!

Thanks for showing.

I clean wood stocks with lukewarm running water, a soft bristle toothbrush, and Murphy's Oil Soap, let dry, then saturate with Pledge Rejuvenating Oil, let dry, then sometime I apply Renaissance Wax, buff, then reinstall the stocks. That said, I have left the older, darker colored Colt full checkered stocks unwashed for the reason Prostrok mentioned. Well, that is what I would have done, had I not lost all of my guns in that terrible boating accident.

d.a.r.y.l

· #4 · Nov 30, 2013

WOWZER.By the way where is the relief for the speed loader?

D*

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mikegs430

Discussion Starter · #5 · Nov 30, 2013

d.a.r.y.l said:
WOWZER.By the way where is the relief for the speed loader?D*

I think I might hold off on that modification....I'm not sure but I think it might diminish their value

Doc44

· #6 · Nov 30, 2013

My interest in the Python has been rekindled and I appreciate posts like this that allow you to learn by seeing early examples of the revolvers and their stocks.

Bill

Reactions: 1

mikegs430

Discussion Starter · #7 · Dec 1, 2013

Doc44 said:
My interest in the Python has been rekindled and I appreciate posts like this that allow you to learn by seeing early examples of the revolvers and their stocks.

Bill

Welcome back. I still wouldn't mind seeing some pictures of that S&W you teased us with in your other post

Doc44

· #8 · Dec 1, 2013 (Edited)

2

The first Combat Magnum completed by S&W on December 15, 1955, K260003. It was kept in the factory collection and sent to Alvin White in 1962 for engraving and gold/silver inlay to be presented to President John F. Kennedy. The side plate features the Great Seal of the United States and the left side of the frame features an anchor since President Kennedy was in the Navy in WW II. The stocks were made by Alvin White and also feature gold S&W monograms, stock screw and escutcheon. President Kennedy never received this "one of a kind" revolver and it was owned by several collectors before I acquired it.

Bill

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mikegs430

Discussion Starter · #9 · Dec 1, 2013

That is simply magnificent! Thank you for sharing this historical firearm with us.

DL1949MF

· #10 · Dec 6, 2013

How long did they put these 1st generation grips on the Python. I think they are one of the best looking grips I've seen.

dfariswheel

· #11 · Dec 6, 2013

Colt used the First Type Target grips from 1953 to about 1960-61.

With Gold medallions they were used on the Python from introduction in 1955 to 1961.
With Silver medallions they were used on the Officer's Model Match, 357 Model, and original Trooper from 1953 to 1961.

mikegs430

Discussion Starter · #12 · Dec 6, 2013

DL1949MF said:
I think they are one of the best looking grips I've seen.

I agree, and in my opinion they feel better than any other grip I have felt on a Python. I haven't shot these and don't plan to, so I can't give you a range report

but I am sure some of the other members can. If you examine them closely you can see why they would have become unaffordable for Colt to continue producing. All follow design changes seemed to have been focused on cost reductions rather that quality style.

dfariswheel

· #13 · Dec 7, 2013

A major reason for the change was because the First Type grips caused problems with loading and especially unloading due to interference with the grips.
As speedloaders came on the market few of them would work at all with the First Type grips.

That, and the cost of all the checkering caused Colt to change to the Second Type Target grips with the "thumb rest", actually a loading clearance, on the left side.
Many people think the Second Type were the most attractive and usable of the Colt Target grips.

saintclair

· #14 · Dec 7, 2013 (Edited)

2

OMG !!! That is one beautiful gun. What must it be worth?

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mikegs430

Discussion Starter · #15 · Dec 7, 2013

dfariswheel said:
Many people think the Second Type were the most attractive and usable of the Colt Target grips.

I do like the 2nd type grips the best when considering usability and feel, but the 1st type, in my opinion feel the best

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