[Ghostrider_23]

Is the Colt Python all that it's cracked up to be???

I have always wanted one but the price of them are very very high.

I have a Ruger GP 100 SS 4" 357, btu I have been thinking about selling it and buying a Python.

How are the Pythons as far as accuracy goes??
Do they break often????

I guess my main question is would you save up the money to get a Python or just keep the GP 100???

[Walkalong]

I wish I knew someone who has one. I would love to try one, but don't want to spend 1K just to try one out. I guess it would hold its value, but that's a lot of cash. :(

I have a GP-100 as well. It is a great shooting gun. I doubt the Python shoots twice as good, but you never know. Plus, well heck, it's a Python.

I am interested in the answers myself.

[HankB]

Pythons have a reputation for very good accuracy.

I've never been particularly impressed with their trigger pulls.

Note that very few revolver competitors use Pythons . . . no matter how much $$$ they sink into their PPC or other competition guns, their choice for the base gun is almost invariably an S&W.

The GP100 is a sturdy gun, nothing wrong with it, but if I had a GP100 and wanted to upgrade, I'd look for an S&W 686 . . . specifically, a gently-used one in good shape without the lock, MIM internals, or frame-mounted firing pin that S&W is currently manufacturing. A trip to a good revolversmith or some polishing of the internals myself would follow. (Jerry Miculek's DVD called Trigger Job is a great "how to" guide.)

[PO2Hammer]

I bought one of the 'new Pythons' in 2001.

The stainless was very well done, far above average for a US made revolver. The trigger was sublime, just as crisp and light as you would want. Accuracy was better than I could test even with a red dot mounted with a B-Square mount.

Pythons use a tapered bore, gradually squeezing the bullet tighter as it passes down the bore. Twist is 1 in 14 inches which favors the heaviest bullets and the .38 spl. target HBWC loads.

The rap on Pythons is that the accuracy and timing degrade over time because the hand pushes on the cylinder star during firing. That is great for accuracy, but over time the hand gets peened a little and stops pushing on the star. Accuracy and timing fall off, and the gun needs a 'smith who knows how to tune Pythons, and there are few of them around anymore.

[CatsEye]

They Python is a very good firearm and great to shoot. IMO it is superior to the GP100. If you just want a Python to have one, I doubt you will be disappointed. If you are just looking for a great shooting revolver then I agree with Hank, check out the 686.

[Seafarer12]

Your going to get all the Python fanatics out on this one.

[H2O MAN]

:D
Colt PYTHON .357
This one has never been fired, but I did fired many rounds from one just like it found it to be very accurate and solid.

http://www.athenswater.com/images/PYTHON-1_small.jpg (http://www.athenswater.com/images/PYTHON-1.jpg)

Note : the one I fired had Hogue grips. Also, I really don't care for the way revolvers fit my hand.
Full size Glock pistols fit my hands much better, but shooting the PYTHON with Hogue grips was a pleasure.

[hoghunting]

I have also heard about how fragile the Pythons are, and I completely disagree. I bought my 1st Python in 1976 - had to get my father to buy it as I was not old enough. That pistol has more than 20,000 rounds through it over the last 30 years. Probably 1/4 of that was 357 rounds and the rest were 38 special loads. The pistol is still as accurate and as tight when I bought it. I've never had a problem with it.

[2nd 41]

I bought a 6" satin stainless in the early 80's for about $600. Sold it a few years ago. This is the only handgun I regret selling. It shot & looked as good as it could get. I fired 14 gr of 2400 powder reloads. I'd buy another one if I had the $$$. Have you seen the prices of GOOD condition Pythons. OUCH.
Hey...buy it if you can. The only problem you will have is putting it away and not using it.

[MM]

H2O,
You mean it wasn't even test fired by Colt? That IS a rare Python!
MM

[Mac45]

Does it have to be "One or the other"?
I'd keep the GP and save a little longer for the Python.

I have one of each and would hate to get rid of either.

[gruesomenewsom]

i got a gp100 6" stainless and im picking up my first python on thursday. my gp's not going anywhere. the python has a 6" barrel as well so when ppl ask me why im keeping both (being that i would now have 2 da .357's with 6" barrels), i simply tell them "it depends on whether im having a nickel plated day or a stainless steel kind of day."

[JohnBT]

"You mean it wasn't even test fired by Colt?"

Geez. That's an old joke.

I love my Python, but I didn't sell my Ruger Police Service-Six .357.

[MM]

Didn't realize it was a joke. Rumour is that some get through, probably an urban legend. Once heard that in the
OLD days, factory test firing was random
MM

[Starter52]

The Python is a great gun. I own two of them. But for the money a S&W Model 27 is just as good, IMO.

For Python-mania your best bet is to find a revolver called the "Colt .357" They were made in the 1950's and were outstanding guns, "Python-like" in every way except the vent rib and exterior polish.

You can still find Colt .357 revolvers for $500. Early ones were equal to any Python ever made. Another good gun is the 1950's-60's Trooper (not the MKIII). It's not as polished as the Colt .357 but still a good revolver.

[CaptMac]

I have a couple one bought new in 1976 and one bought new in 1963, the eariler one has a smoother double action trigger pull, the single action pull from either is crisp. The double action trigger of Smith & Wesson's I find smoother because of the springs. I like Colts and S&W's and own several of both when I started out in law enforcement in 1974 they were the only two respected games in town.

[mtmuley]

I have a Colt 357. 4" with target grips and hammer. It has a very smooth action and seems to shoot well. I didn't know anything about it until I found THR. I actually have cleaned it up and used it since I learned more about it here. I think I'll use it for my concealed weapons permit class training. mtmuley

[Katty]

Do a Google search.
You will find it is the best production revolver ever made. And the most liked.
Period.

[H2O MAN]

JohnBT "You mean it wasn't even test fired by Colt?"

Geez. That's an old joke.

Yep ~

[Hawk]

Is the Colt Python all that it's cracked up to be???

Due to the unrealistic hosanas sung in its name it's not too difficult to set yourself up for disappointment.

They're OK, perhaps a bit better than OK but angels don't sing when the trigger is pulled. They won't cause you to want to toss your 686s into the recycler. Keep the expectations realistic and all should be well.

Don't buy a "fixer-upper". It's hard to find someone to work on them.

[Black Knight]

They are like any other revolver, some like them some don't. I have two and love them. They are more accurate than I'll ever be. While I love them and intend on keeping them if I had to carry a revolver on the job I would probably carry my S&W 686. Nothing wrong with the Python its just that they are so expensive to repair or replace. As far as breaking I have had only two repairs since 1979 on only one of them. I buldged the barrel and replaced it then the hand wore down causing a timing problem. That was replaced and no problems since. Some of the 70's era parts were not as well hardened as they should have been. That was corrected in the early 80's. BTW I do carry my 4" Python concealed quite often now a days even though I have several others I could use. The Python was my first handgun so they hold a special place in my heart.

[Titan6]

So I go to the gun shop and as a first timer in this gun shop I ask for all the typical guns that I am in automatic buy mode for with full approval from the wife.

Me: "Do you have any Colt Pythons"

Him: "Yes, but they are not for sale"

Me: "Umm what are they for if not sale? This is a gun shop right?"

Him: "The owner dosen't sell them they are just for looking at"

Me: "Looking at? Does anyone ever shoot them?"

Him: "Not anymore, they are too valuable to shoot"

Me: "uh, I shoot mine all the time"

Him: ....

Me: "Okay, weelll do you know where he got them from?"

Him: "I can ask"

Owner: *Brings out a large tray of various Pythons in different barrel lengths and finshes* "is this what you are looking for?"

Me: "Yes"

Him: "...they not for sale. I just buy them..." *Begins to show off toys* ".... I'd sell some of them but people don't bring them in as often as they used to. People just want to hold on to them..."

Me: :D

I have not been able to find one in good shape for less than $1200 in a year. Maybe on an internet gun site before shipping and transfer fees.....

[JohnBT]

"but angels don't sing when the trigger is pulled"

Dude, take off your ear muffs. :neener:

[Hawk]

Dude, take off your ear muffs.

I thought I heard angels once when I was dry firing but it turned out to be Coco Lee. Or something. Subsequent attempts just produced a "click".

;)

[10X]

A Python is a superior quality revolver.
A Python will appreciate in value more than almost any other revolver.

The Python accuracy standard is to be one-third more accurate than standard revolvers. That is something I read years ago.
Average Python to average S&W I would say that is about right.

That said, I find the older P&R S&Ws fit my hand better and I like an S&W action better.

I have owned several Pythons and sold them.

[Virginian]

The Colt Python, besides just being a quality revolver in the most popular caliber, set styling standards for decades to come. If you can look at a Smith 686, or a Ruger GP-100, or a current underlugged Taurus and not see that, you have a problem.
Since it's demise by Colt, it has achieved cult status, very similar to the 2nd Generation SAAs. It's like art. When the artest dies it increases in value.
There is nothing wrong with a Python, or a Smith, or a Ruger, or (possibly) a Taurus. Depending on your personal priorities, you can justify any of them to yourself. No one else matters, 'cause it's your money. Whatever you have, enjoy it.

P.S. - All you tapered barrel 'theorists' are invited to slug the barrel. I have. And won $20 in the process.

[10X]

What asking prices are you seeing in your locations:

4" and 6" blue are $1,000-$1,250 in Colorado, depending upon condition, factory box & papers, etc.

I haven't seen and 2 1/2" or 3" recently.

I just found this on gunbroker, this seems way too high.
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=95023107

[JohnBT]

"P.S. - All you tapered barrel 'theorists' are invited to slug the barrel."

It's only .001"

www.grantcunningham.com/acc-rifle.html

- by Massad Ayoob

"In the late 1970s, I did a three part series on the Python for American Handgunner magazine that involved days at the factory debriefing the engineers. They told me that Python bores were tapered by .001" toward the muzzle, to drive the bullet deeper into the rifling. This is, if you think about it, quite a feat of engineering. It may be one reason why for so many years, people who preferred other revolvers paid gunsmiths to install Python barrels on them, creating a "Smolt" when the tube was joined to an S&W and a "Cougar' when mated to a Ruger."

[GUNKWAZY]

It's only .001"


.001 is a very good crush when forcing 2 metals together.
Did you ever stuff a .376 O.D. solid bearing into a hard steel or stainless steel .375 I.D. diam bore ?
It's gonna take a lot of force to push that through.

Jeff (GUNKWAZY)

[Seafarer12]

I just found this on gunbroker, this seems way too high.
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/Vie...?Item=95023107
I know what you mean, For that price it shouldnt have chipped grips or scratches.

[SaxonPig]

They are very nice. They are very pricey. You have to decide if they are worth it. I like mine and shoot them a lot.

http://www.fototime.com/CD60409C0D38CBB/standard.jpg

[Ash]

"Another good gun is the 1950's-60's Trooper (not the MKIII)."

The Trooper Mk III is an excellent revolver. The lock-work is virtually the same as the Anaconda and King Cobra (based on the Mk V). They lock differently than the Python, if that is what you want or refer to. But, they are excellent none-the-less.

Ash

[cherryriver]

I just put over 900 rounds through my beat-up four-inch Python in the last four days, including a 100-round IDPA match in which I finished 13th of 49, even despite SOing a 13-man squad, too.
If it had some sort of problem, I guess I would have noticed.
Note about the .357 Model and Trooper: I'm a big fan, and have some. But the funny thing is, once the timer goes off, with the Python, the holes in the targets are more likely to be alphas or zeros and they appear more quickly. Can't explain it, but there it is.
Now, pardon me while I get to processing all this dang empty brass...
Bill

[JohnBT]

".001 is a very good crush when forcing 2 metals together.
Did you ever stuff a .376 O.D. solid bearing into a hard steel or stainless steel .375 I.D. diam bore ?
It's gonna take a lot of force to push that through."

No I haven't. But was he slugging barrels with ball bearings or soft lead slugs to win that $20? If the barrel is smooth enough soft lead might just slide on through. If I think of it Saturday I'll see what the hall of fame rimfire shooting gunsmith at the range says.

John

[GUNKWAZY]

But was he slugging barrels with ball bearings

Ahhh dear John and dear friend of the Hall of Famer rimfire Gunsmith world champion, I'm hoping you're just bustin my stones here, but report back asap as we're sure going to be holding on tightly to see what is said about a gun that was made for 50 years and that is world renown & known to be very accurate for some reason or another.:D

Jeff (GUNKWAZY)

[Confederate]

The Python is a wonderfully beautiful gun that really isn't all it's cracked up to be. I mean, it was, but not now.

What I mean is that the Python was, for it's time, arguably worth the premium price they commanded. Their rich blue finishes were legendary and the guns were accurate. But when Smith introduced its 686, they pulled out all stops to try to make them the equal of the Python accuracy-wise. In fact, the early 686s were some of the finest guns Smith ever produced. Whether they've been able to keep up with that pace throughout the years I don't know, but I do know that the early 686s (the ones with the stamped side plates) were outstanding.

Another aggravation about the Python was the tiny pawl that rotated the cylinder. It quickly wore down and required precise fitting to replace, so the things would go out of time fairly quickly. (In fact, some Python shooters had their ratchets and their pawls hard chromed so they wouldn't wear, and some even hard chromed their bores once they were nice and smooth, so they wouldn't wear). Meanwhile, Ruger owners were just ordering pawls and installing them themselves, with minimal fitting.

I'd be tempted to get a Python if I could get a blued one is primo condition, but then I wouldn't shoot it; I'd just put it in the safe. And I wouldn't fool with a stainless Python, as the rich bluing was part of the draw. I'd rather get a 686, any 686, than a stainless Python.

One more thing. Pythons have horrible grips. Wide at the bottom, where the human hand is smallest, and narrow at the top, where the hand is more broad. It was the handgun version of Earth Shoes. (Anyone here remember Earth Shoes? Lots of sole in the front where the foot had to work, and narrow in the back, where the body regained its equilibrium. They thought it was the way to go until people began having foot and back problems!)

Anyway, that's my take. Other opinions may vary.

[dicky r]

Accurate, definite "cool" factor and unlimited sex appeal. Angels DO sing when you pull the trigger. What's not to love ?

[Confederate]

"...They told me that Python bores were tapered by .001" toward the muzzle, to drive the bullet deeper into the rifling. This is, if you think about it, quite a feat of engineering. It may be one reason why for so many years, people who preferred other revolvers paid gunsmiths to install Python barrels on them, creating a 'Smolt' when the tube was joined to an S&W and a 'Cougar' when mated to a Ruger." —Massad Ayoob
As much as I respect and admire Ayoob, he is, every now and again, a tad enthusiastic about products he admires. Even if he's correct about Colt's "push" technology, I still can't help but recall the early days of the Smith & Wesson 686 (referenced above). I don't ever recall seeing anyone replacing a 686 barrel with a Colt, though I can't say it never happened. It's just that gun testers of all stripes anxiously tested the 686 against the Python because of the obvious similarity in barrel style (full underlug). All over the country people were reported that the new Smith revolver was giving Colt Pythons a serious run for their money. In fact, most people couldn't really tell the difference. Whether Smith was employing the same technology or just watching their heretofore sloppy tolerances, I honestly don't know, but competition shooters began buying 686s like crazy.

Some folks said the Colts and Smiths were better because they were forged. Some said the Pythons were better because their bores were laser guided, and exactly centered. Most of the Smolts and Cougars were altered because of the twist rate, not the .001 taper, though who knows, maybe that was a factor. The only precise way to measure accuracy is by securing the guns in a rest and trying to eliminate all human elements, but then each gun could, and often did, exhibit its own personality, meaning that each gun was different to one extent or the other.

I had friends who bought Pythons, and some bought and sold several before they found the "one" they liked. But the same is true for other makes. They'd go into a store with their feeler gages and calipers and bother the owners to distraction trying to find the best specimen; and the only reason they got away with it was because they knew the proprietors.

[welldoya]

I had Python fever, I had always wanted one. After I got it I was a little disappointed. I shot it a few times and sold it. But that's just me.
I've seen several nice ones for less than $900. I paid $500 for mine last year.
Usually the big $ ones are NIB and collectors are buying them to look at, not to shoot. Then there's the rare versions (3" nickel, etc) that are bringing thousands of $. But there again, that's for the deep pocket collectors.
Heck, try one. If you buy it right, you most likely won't lose any money when you sell it.

[bayouboy]

Hearsay and rumour doesn't get it. Try one and you will love it.

[Ash]

The early days of the S&W 686 were the early 80's, which were several decades after the introduction of the Python in the 1950's.

Ash

[cherryriver]

I'm inclined to agree with most of Confederate's assessment of the Smith-Python thing.
It would be harder to come up with an endorsement of the Python better than Smith having to pull out all the stops to match up. The 686 is indeed superb. I had a chance to get some good use of a friend's heavily-modified four-incher and it was really good. For me, the 586 would be better still, as I do tend to prefer blue. Sadly, I hesitated on a (also modified) six-incher last fall and it was gone when I went back for it. No doubt I was going to like it and shoot it plenty.
It's also a testament to a 19th-century design that it's still such a hot topic long after its departure, and still the model the remaining high-end DA sixgun maker is seeking to equal.
My Python is a mid-'70s one, and was heavily used before I got it for not too much money. I've been almost merciless, as pointed out in my previous post. I am pretty sure the gun hasn't seen any maintenance beyond cleaning. I estimate its round count to be upwards of 15,000, likely closer to 20,000. The hand is unmodified and original, and there's nothing amiss in the timing. Even today, it does not spit and has almost no gap flash, something I've never been able to say about any of the Smiths I've had. A contemporary Model 19 that I had and loved, with no more hard use than my Python, was a forest-fire menace.
This, and the other Pythons I've had, were nothing like that. My conclusion, based on my own experience over three-plus decades, is that the hand wear issue is of little practical significance. I understand others have had wear troubles, but I can't help but wonder, given the number of folks like myself with no noticeable hand wear issues, that something else, possibly even misuse, could be a factor. Closing a cylinder on a cocked gun, hand exposed, is one possiblity and might be considered a weakness of the design.
During the active life of the Colt D-E/I frames, the hand repair/replacement thing was simply considered maintenance. When there were plenty of Colt-skilled smiths about to do the work, it wasn't a big deal. Besides, not really all that many shooters pounded so many rounds through a single gun way back when. Nowadays, with the diminishing of the Colt legacy, it has become somewhat more of a deal. Time passes and things change.
Since none of the many D-E/Is I have show any signs whatsoever of needing hand work, I tend to ignore it. When the time comes, I'll send the thing back to Colt, where their shop continues to do excellent DA work at very reasonable rates.
The other issue for many is the different DA actions between the two makes. I hold that the Smith style, which I think of as a breaking neck break, is better for bullseye-type shooting such as PPC and NRA Action Pistol. The stage-and-break is suited for such work and frankly, during the longer shots of the PPC course I sometimes wish my Colt could turn into a Smith.
On the other hand, once accustomed to it, the Colt "stack" works better for fast stuff. For me, at least, during the fastest shooting such as USPSA and IDPA, a proper sweep of the Colt DA lets me shoot faster with equal or better accuracy, as the stack (slight in a proper action) tends to minimize the impact of the trigger and finger at the end of the firing stroke and helps keep the sights aligned.
I've tested myself against the timer enough to be satisfied with that description.
What the Python had best of all was handling and balance. While I never considered myself a "Python person", I've come to realize that when it comes to leaving holes in the center of action-shooting silhouettes, the Python nearly always gives me the best overall results.
I will agree that the Colt E/I handle shape isn't the best, especially for people with none-too-large hands. But equipped with Hogue finger-groove stocks, especially the Monogrip, the disadvantage disappears. I prefer the V-frame Colt ergos best of all, followed by the Smith K, but a rubbered-up Python is so little less good it really doesn't matter.
But I guess I just plain like my gun.
Bill

[Guillermo]

I have a Python and love it. Great gun.

My daughter has been shooting since age 6 and when she turns 15 later this year it is time for her to have a revolver. It will not be a Colt.

As much as I love my Python, her first revolver is going to be a 686.

Is the Python better? Well maybe but not twice as good. I bought her a 7 shot stainless 686, did a trigger job, bought her 2 holsters and still saved 500 dollars.

Out of the box the Smith is 90% as good as the Colt and after a little work is just as good.

The Ruger is a great revolver too, albeit a bit heavy.

Don't you love that we have so many great choices?

[JohnBT]

"Ahhh dear John and dear friend of the Hall of Famer rimfire Gunsmith world champion, I'm hoping you're just bustin my stones here, but report back asap as we're sure going to be holding on tightly to see what is said about a gun that was made for 50 years and that is world renown & known to be very accurate for some reason or another."

You've lost me. I replied to a post about slugging a Python barrel. You posted something about ball bearings. Barrels are slugged with soft lead - I've done it to .22s with pulled bullets looking for bulges and tight spots. (Bill Calfee has written a number of interesting articles in Precision Shooting on slugging barrels to identify where to cut the blank, etc.)

I replied that I'd ask a local gunsmith about the difficulty of slugging a barrel with a .001" taper. IOW, would I even notice that .001". Now, you've posted something that's so far out there I don't know what you're talking about. Go back and reread the thread would you. You're lost.

John the Python owner

[SaxonPig]

I always heard that Colts will outshoot Smiths due to the tigher bores. I have tested my Colts against My S&Ws in side-by-side comparisons and in most cases the Colts shot better.

This is a group from my 6" Python using full-power Magnum ammo (125 JHP@1600 FPS).

http://www.fototime.com/AB7CECF844113D3/standard.jpg

Same ammo through a 1938 Registered Magnum. Good group but the Colt shoots better.

http://www.fototime.com/6E233DC6AF3FD86/standard.jpg

This 1950 Model 44 Special is no slouch. But the Python still shoots better.

http://www.fototime.com/D387EEBEAC7FF03/standard.jpg

[cherryriver]

Dang, SaxonPig, you went ahead and posted that picture of that Registered Magnum, and now I've broken out in a sweat, just like I said.
My keyboard's mad at you.
At least the .44 was "just" a 1950 and not a Triple Lock.
Bill

[CCW1911]

Bought my first Python used in 1969 it was made in 1964, I sure wish I had it now. The issue with wear mostly comes from fast double action shooting, the second hand design puts a lot of force on the hand when rotating the cylinder fast against the clyinder stop. I wore out a couple of hands this way. Shot mostly single action or at a more sane double action pace the hand will last a long time.

Accuracy was excellent especially with 148 hollowbase wadcutters over 2.7 of bullseye. The barrel quality on the older guns at least, is as good as it gets on a revolver. My stock Python would shoot as good off the rest as any custom barreled revolver I built. Never tried to test whether the barrel is tapered or not, but an airgage should prove it or not.

Besides the price difference the S&W is more popular in PPC competition because the Colts action is smooth but it tends to stack and the Smith doesn't. Well, unless you had Moran do your Python action. You will see all kinds of DVDs and books on how to tune your Smith action on the kitchen table but not for the Python. That's because the Python action is much much less forgiving to a small mistake and hard to fix if you mess up.

The coolest conversion I did was to put a Python barrel on a Trooper Mk3. Unless you know Colts pretty well you couldn't tell it wasn't a true Python. Couldn't think of a good name for it but my friends were impressed that I could afford 2 Pythons.;) Ross

[SaxonPig]

cherryriver- We can do a TL if you like.

http://www.fototime.com/2DC8D67A12DA938/standard.jpg

[Firepower!]

I rather buy King Cobra. Not fond of the python, although good for collection purpose if you want to have the complete snake series.

[cherryriver]

SaxonPig-
Drool, drip, sob, and ow.

[Peter M. Eick]

Well, since Saxon did it, so will I....

http://pages.sbcglobal.net/eickpm/python_tb.jpg

50 rounds, 15 yrds, Trailboss with a 158 Lasercast offhand.

http://pages.sbcglobal.net/eickpm/python_2400.jpg

50 rounds, 15 yrds, Hot load of 2400 with a 158 Lasercast offhand.

In general I would say the python is an accurate gun.

http://pages.sbcglobal.net/eickpm/single_action.jpg

50 rounds, 15 yrds, Hot load of 2400 with a 158 Lasercast offhand in a 1939 Registered Magnum.

http://pages.sbcglobal.net/eickpm/reg_target.jpg

50 rounds, 15 yrds, Hot load of 2400 with a 158 Lasercast offhand with a 1939 Registered Magnum.

Some days I just don't shoot the Registered as well. Consistency is critical with the magna grips of the registered, while with the Python it is easier to look good.

As much as I think my Python is a good shooter, the Registered Magnum is still more accurate.

[10X]

Half the accuracy battle is how the gun fits in your hand, how it balances and how good the trigger is.

[Stevel]

If you have the money shop for a fair price and buy one. If it's as great as you think it will b then you have a great gun. If not you have answered the question (is it that great?) and you can sell it for at least as much as you paid.

Mine is ok. It shoots well (1.25" at 50 yards), but so what? My GP will shoot probably 2.5" at that distance. Good enough and I don't worry about carrying or scratching the GP.

[10-Ring]

I had given up my dream to own one until I ran across one last year...it's a circa 1969 blue Python that shoots sweeter than anything (and I mean anything) else out there.
http://i145.photobucket.com/albums/r208/10-Ring/P1020622.jpg

[Confederate]

Are the stainless Pythons getting the same premiums that the blued ones are getting? I love the Python's looks and particularly its wide, oval hammer.

As an investment, guns are really pretty good in that most people can sell the things for what they paid for it, or more. All in all, if I could only have one .357 for the rest of me life, I'd have to opt for the 686. If I could only have one .357 and I'd be out in the wilderness living in primitive conditions, I'd take a Ruger.

[Baba Louie]

Went into The Gun Store here in Las Vegas last weekend. Place was packed with tourists lined up 2 deep at the counter, as usual. Most of them doing the rent and shoot one of TGS's automatic weapons. Saw 3 or 4 of the locals buying new M&P's, SA Croats and a Glock or two

When I could finally get up to the counter I looked at a couple of long guns, then spotted what looked to be a 6" blued Python in the glass display case with a price tag of $499. It HAD to be an Armscor for that price, I thought.

But I could read the word Python on the tube.

As I handed back the M1A Scout Squad I was thinking about, I asked about the "Python" by saying, "What's wrong with the Python?" He replied, "It had a little wear on it, some of the bluing was rubbed off at the usual places for a carry gun, other than that, it locked up tight, no upper strap cut cause the previous owner had shot .38's, cylinder chambers needed a good cleaning due to the crud build up and that it was a steal. It's been here for 2 weeks now."

So I looked it over. An E18XXX serial (IIRC that's about 1970-71ish mfg date), muzzle wear from holstering, also front edge of triggerguard and front of frame and cylinder worn bright... nice character. Locked up tight, no end shake at all, real tight cylinder/barrel gap. Pachmayer rubber. White paint on front sight and rear. Someone had really shot this thing and carried it... a lot.

I looked up at the sales staff and he was grinning. He said, "You buy it and you save me $500. No need to worry about wearing it, you can see it's a shooter, not a safe queen. You want it?"

[JohnBT]

So, did you buy it? :confused:

[Baba Louie]

So, did you buy it? Well... Duh!
http://i171.photobucket.com/albums/u308/Babalou55/Python005-1.jpg
I asked them to leave their hang tag on it, just because I wanted a few photos to remind me of the single time in my entire life I found a deal worthy of campfire discussion.
I will admit, I've never gotten used to Colt's trigger tho when compared to my 586. Dry fired it a hundred times or so DA and found once again on the slow squeeze at the end of the stack I get too much barrel tip movement.
Will take it out this weekend after I give it a good scrub, along with the 586 (also a 6") and see what's what and if it was worth all the pain of me whipping my wallet out.
It's not all shiny and pretty tho, like those expensive ones everyone shows, is it? No box or papers. Just a revolver with a prancing pony.

Now if I could only find a SAA for the same price. :rolleyes:

[gruesomenewsom]

It's not all shiny and pretty tho, like those expensive ones everyone shows, is it? No box or papers. Just a revolver with a prancing pony.


I just picked up my first python last week. 6" nickel plated. It had holster wear and a few knicks on the left side of the barrel from wearing. The "3" on the .357 was starting to wear off. But it still had all the nickel on it and was a real eye catcher. the star on the cylinder looks like it had seen better days but the timing still seemed ok when i checked it with a flashlight and the cylinder seemed to lock up nice and tight. with the original box and papers i got it for $850 which I thought was reasonable. I'll work on getting some pics up.

[JohnBT]

"Well... Duh! "

So, did ya beat 'em down any on the price? :eek:

[Ash]

I like Pythons, but live that plane-jane life of a Trooper owner. Granted, I would have paid $500 for a blued Python, but I am plenty happy with my 357 Trooper Mk III's. Folks are sure to disagree, but that's fine by me.



Ash

[cherryriver]

BabaLouie-
I'm usually sort of wordy, but I don't have any for the agony the tale of your $500 Python is causing me.
Plus, I've been looking for a six-inch shooter for USPSA use at a decent price.
Just: Ow.
Meanwhile, I do have to throw out a couple of points about your trigger action comment.
Yes, the Colt's is different. Speaking as someone who shoots Colt E/Is every week and Smiths not nearly so often, I actually have a bit of trouble with the Smith break. Not because it's bad, but because it's different. The Colt requires (and rewards) a sweep all the way through. If you pause, you'll get the problem you describe.
On the other hand, once you get the hang of it, it gives less of a jar to the gun when it hits the end of travel, as you might have if you're shooting faster.
My take on it is: the Smith's is better for target shooting, with the slow, staging type pull, and the Colt's is better for speed shooting, where the stack works to help keep the sights aligned by slowing the trigger crash at the end of the stroke.
As I've said elsewhere, on the long shots of the PPC course I sometimes wish my Colt would turn into a Smith. But in something like IDPA or USPSA, I'll get better hits with the Colt when I'm going as fast as I can.
A bit of practice will get things clearer.
Meanwhile, adjusting the Colt DA pull is actually simple, and if you botch it, it's still easy to fix. I'd suggest the Kuhnhausen Colt D-E/I revolvers book if you're curious. But, if you want to do your own wrenching, the Colt mechanism will make you pay for any (other) mistake you make.
A clubmate copper buddy got a nice old Detective Special and set to slicking it up a bit, sans book. He was fortunate to find a replacement set of action parts on an auction site, so that he can undo what he did.
I'd say, if you need six .36 cal hits as fast as possible, the Python's the solution. You'll see.
Bill

[Baba Louie]

Bill (cherryriver)
Thanks for the advice. I did do some more dryfiring last night and allowed myself to get frustrated, trying to s l o w l y find the "break" and that was maddening I tell ya.

With my M14 and M15 and 586 I've got it down pretty well for slow, aimed, accurate and steady sight picture/release with hardly any front end wiggle.
Now you're saying I've got to learn something new???

sigh

OK. Old dog, New tricks time. (learning is fun... learning is fun...)

Will give it a hundred goes doing a clean sweep tonight, hoping that does the trick or begins to click internally in me feeble brain.

All of my Springfield crew were jealous at first (new kid in town syndrome I think) but I KNOW they were s******ing as the evenings frustration wore on. We ARE talking about 35 years of S&W/Finger/Brain/Eye coordination here ya know.

But everyone swears by the snake, so I figure I can learn some new nuances.

I still pinch myself but I've taken the Minnie Pearl tag off.

Thanks again for the good words and the sympathey for my agony. I feel your pain. :D

[cherryriver]

You know, Louie, the heartbreak of frustration is a horrifying thing. Let me help... here's my FFL's address...

[Grayrock]

What year did Colt stop production of the Python?

[Hawk]

I believe 1999 was the last year as standard production. It wheezed and stumbled along as a custom shop offering through around 2003.

No scratchings on the coffin lid since then, afaik.

[strat81]

Just when I thought I was over my desire for a Colt, this thread appears.

I swear, Colts are like crack and this forum is the bad friend saying, "C'mon, one hit won't hurt."

[welldoya]

One thing that I have noticed about Pythons. There is a lot more talk about wanting one than actual buyers.
I had a 95% 4" (circa 1982) for sale last year. I started at $900. No takers. Dropped it to $850. No takers. $800. No takers.
I had it for sale on two or three forums for a month. Oh, I got a lot of comments "What a great deal, wish I had the money." "That's a steal, wish I hadn't just bought a (fill in the blank)".
Walked around with it at a gunshow. Must've shown it to 20 people. Their eyes would light up when they saw you had a Python and they were hoping you were stupid. When I said $800, they acted like they had been snakebit.
Finally sold it for $750 and $35 worth of trinkets and beads.
So, when I read all the hype and how a beater is worth $1,000, I know better. I've been there.

[Ash]

And my Troopers cost less than $400...

Ash

[Ghost Tracker]

A great-shape, royal-blued Python is an object of pride for the owner & lust for the observer. Much like a well-presented Classic Car, a walnut & velvet cased Souza Grade Ithaca, or Angelina Jolie in evening wear. It causes a hushed reverence & (in some extreme instances) shortness of breath. Beautiful design, beautiful execution...stunning, to those who appreciate the undeniable lines of elegance.

But day-in-day-out, IMHO Colt's premier DA Revolver (like those examples above) is just too high-strung for heavy, practical use compared to the available (S&W, Ruger) alternatives. A Derby-winning Thoroughbred is a pure work of art but, as a mount for a tough trail ride, give me a good (maybe ugly) Quarter Horse.

[Ash]

Like I said, my Troopers set me back less than $400, or about the price of my Ruger Service Six...

Ash

[bayouboy]

Oh, no! Someone needs to tell my old beat up 1975 Python it's not a Smith and Wesson. I ran 300 rounds thru it yesterday (all double action) without a hiccup. Round count, since I've had it, is well over 3000. Pretty good for a gun that's not fit for day in and day out carry.

http://i124.photobucket.com/albums/p9/rpweimer/guns464.jpg

[Ghost Tracker]

Noboby said the Python wasn't fit for everyday carry. It just doesn't fit...me!

[Gladius]

I'm a Smith man, born & bred (no, really). Still.... I always wanted one... and I'm not disappointed....

[gruesomenewsom]

i took my python out today for the first time along with my gp100 to compare. the sights needed adjustment but the accuracy was there! the ruger i think was more accurate but i think thats mostly because i like the ruger match sights better. still one helluva gun. Not disappointed at all.

[Huddog]

I am traditionally a dyed in the wool S&W man but have always wanted a Python. I can't explain it. I would buy one tomorrow if I could get a great deal but I won't spend what they are asking for them currently. In my opinion Pythons have become collector items. I would be afraid to hurt the value one by firing it and can you imagine if you used it for self defense and it went in to a Police evidence room for two years or more until trial???? I guess I'll just buy another Smith.

[cherryriver]

Dang, Bayouboy, we're on the same page again.
I just got back from pounding another 300 rounds through my four-inch Python, "practicing" for another hundred-round IDPA match tomorrow morning. This only a week or two since a three range trips in four days string of nearly a thousand slugs through the selfsame barrel.
On top of the other thousands of rounds that came before, it's a wonder this high-strung wretch even shoots anymore.
Can I mention again that 13th overall out of 49 total shooters finish I nailed with this thing a couple of Sundays ago at my club's March IDPA shootin' match?
Or did I mention it already? Sorry.
With this gun, I have to strictly ration the amount of .38/.357 that goes into the range bag every weekend or I'll be so broke I won't be able to afford primers.
Oops, gotta go hit the sack to get up at 4am to hit the road to deliver another few hundred thermally reconfigured wheelweights (and a few Berry's).
Bill

[bayouboy]

Some folks will never understand. Maybe that's not a bad thing!

[Grayrock]

You always kick yourself for the one that got away. Passed on a nickel 8" model couple of years ago. It was a shooter in about 85-90%. Asking $800 for it. I might have been able to talk him down a little- but by the time I decided I needed it (a couple of weeks later) it was gone.:banghead:

For a hunting handgun would an 8" or 6" be better? Are there scope mounts for the Python? How do they attach?

[Gaiudo]

Hey Folks,

My great grandfather owned Rajo's Guns out in Evansville before he died, and one of the gifts he passed on to my dad was a beautiful 4'' Python, serial number 86xxx E. Last year Dad passed it on to me as a first "inheritance" gun, a wedding present. I've still got the original box, as well as the box of shells Rajo sent with it, six empties included, and that's been the extent of its use. Anyone care to enlighten me on the date this fine beauty was birthed? I believe its 1977, but have never confirmed that date.

[LKB3rd]

http://proofhouse.com/colt/index.html
serial numbers by date

[Ash]

The 8's are for hunting, but to me they are just too darn long. 6" would be my preference. Yes, scopes can be mounted on them as I have seen scoped Troopers and the top strap of the Trooper is the same as the Python. As to how it is done, I could not say.

As to the website link above, it is a very helpful site, but it doesn't have serial numbers on the Python or Trooper Mk III's past 1978 or so.

Ash

[Gordon]

I have a 6" Python Hunter. It came in a Haliburton aluminum case with a 2x Leupold scope clamped onto the vent rib with what I believe are "sterile" B-Square mounts. Mine is now in the climate controlled 'investment' safe, even though I've shot a cpuple boxes thru it.;)

[easyrider6042004@yahoo.ca]

I guess my main question is would you save up the money to get a Python or just keep the GP 100???

Had a Python 4" about 17 yrs ago. Never fired it because I found the operation of the cylinder release weird and unnatural. Still regret having sold it. In the world of .357 magnum revolvers, one has to have at least one each of all the big three: Python, 686 and GP100. They are all beautiful in their own way. Who do you choose? Miss New Hampshire, Miss Connecticut or Miss Massacussetts?

[Ralphie Parker]

I own a 6" blue built in 1961. Nicest gun I've ever owned. I'm not parting with it...ever.

[Blacksmoke]

IMHO, the best DA six gun ever made.

Worth every penny.

Royal Blue is my favorite color and wish I could paint my truck to look so good.

Trigger pull is like skating on glass. Well, assuming I could skate on glass I might remark it was like a Colt Python's trigger pull!!

#2 Trooper, first model ,357 magnum

#3 New Service Target

then comes S&W

then comes Taurus

then comes Ruger.

Why is Ruger last? It is only becuase of their blueing which sucks. If they would do a better job they would be a contender for #1. Well, they need to improve the Redhawk's trigger pull anda few other things.

[SaxonPig]

I had a 4" nickel Python I got at a local show for $500 about 4 years ago. It took a while for the signs to develop, but I realized it had been refinished. Nicely done, but a couple spots of corrosion began showing through. I sold it for $450 to friend and I went shopping for another. Paid $600 for a blued 4" gun but I wish I had one in nickel.

The early Troopers share the Python action but aren't as deluxe. Great shooters. I bought this one showing a LOT of holster wear at a local show for $210.


http://www.fototime.com/209BC5332C6C30A/standard.jpg

[OneFastBird95]

I was wondering if anyone had basic info on this style of Python? Is this the "Elite" version and what years were they made and how much do they go for?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v246/wickedhuge24/colt_python_elite.jpg

[dfariswheel]

Three identifying features of the Elite are the barrel marking as "Python Elite", the single pin front sight, and the last type laminated grips.

Other than those, the Elite is exactly the same gun as the Python.

The Elite was introduced in 1997 and ended with the end of Python production in 2003.

[OneFastBird95]

Thanks for the heads up on the elite! What type of price range are these running used?