Calling all Colt collectors... Which Colt Trooper Mk. III to get?

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Which one of these two practically identically Mk. III is the better buy? The 4" is $50 more expensive and looks like the grips are not as nice as the 6".....???


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I've had three Troopers over the years. I'd get the six inch; it will hold it's value better because it is more rare. The Trooper MK III series are beautiful looking pieces of craftsmanship but are not as good for actual shooting as a comparable Ruger or S&W IMO.
 
Stocks aside, I'd go for the 4" version. I like the balance a bit better. If I were only using the revolver for target work, I'd opt for the 6" model

MHO YMMV
 
The 4" Trooper looks to be in a little better condition and has less of a cylinder turn line. Also, the 4" is a more popular and handier barrel length. I have a mint 6" pre MK III Trooper .357 which has original Colt target stocks with a similar finish to the grips on the 6" Trooper MK III pictured above. So, there may not be anything wrong with those stocks in terms of wear-only their appearance due to the way Colt had finished them at the factory.
 
I'm going to go with the 4" revolver. It will be handier to use, draw from holster, carrying in holster, sitting while wearing holster. I have a 6" Python, love the way it shoots so accurately, but those 2" of being longer.... this is why my opinion. I did have a 4" Python some years back, I kicked myself every time I open the gun safe and its not there, GRRRRRRRR ! You choose your poison, MHO.
 
I have a 4" Trooper Mark III, It is a police trade in, doesn't look as good as yours but it is the easiest to shoot 357 of about a half dozen 4" that I own. The MK III series are built heavier than any other 357 on the market including the GP 100. Just check the weight of each, the MK III is heavier and stronger.
 
Off topic question.... comparing similar condition guns with same barrel length and blued, is a Trooper MK III more desirable or about the same as a SW 19-3?
 
I'd vote for the 6" unless you're looking for a holster gun. And even then if you're going to use it when hunting the 6" barrel gets more performance out of the .357 magnum. Also I just like the look of the 6" version.

As far as value when compared to a S&W Model 19-3. It depends on who the buyer is. Right now I'm on a Colt kick. In the past 18 months I've purchased five revolvers and two of them have been Colts. I'm now looking for a nice Official Police. I'd be willing to pay a little extra for a nice Trooper or Trooper Mk III.

I should add that the Mk III line was a very strong design even if it didn't have the slick single action trigger of the older design.
 
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I would purchase the 4" myself. Technically, the 4" should be more common than the 6", but I see far more 6" Trooper Mark III's for sale. That makes me question the traditional reasoning that they made more 4" models than 6". I have a 6" in 357 and it is my go to range shooter.
 
I would opt for the 4" model. I just think it balances better for me than the 6" barrel.
 
Get which ever one you like the best. Either is a fine choice.
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Agreed.

I have a 4" Model 19 that is simply superb, but I also have a 4", as well as a 6", Trooper Mk III. The Mk III's are one of the strongest .357's out there, while the S&W is a bit more "refined".

Really depends on what you are going to use it for, and which you like better.

But to the original question, it's a toss up. I like my 6" Mk III with the full grip, but the 4" Mk III with the grip "missing" a bit up front. I like the full grip on the 4" as well, but not the other on the 6". Not as much leverage for the longer barrel.

Pick the one that feels best to you.

Caveat: I do not collect guns, I shoot guns, so my advise may be moot.
 

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  • Blue 4 & 6 Inch Trooper Mk III Pic 1.JPG
    Blue 4 & 6 Inch Trooper Mk III Pic 1.JPG
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The ejector rod on mine was loose when I bought the gun. I have to watch it when I put lots of ammo through it, because it will come loose again and get in the way when closing the cylinder. Wonder if its just something that happens with these particular Colt revolvers.
Click to expand...

clean the threads and a small drop of lock-tite on the threads and i bet it stays tight....
 
4" is just about perfect for all around use .357Mag. I would consider that more desirable length then 6".
 
Assuming both are mechanically sound, I'm partial towards the 6" model. Both my Trooper-Based Colts are 6", and the length seems to suit them perfectly.

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