might take the plunge

[jbech123]

I do not own a handgun anymore. Had a beretta 92 and a taurus 44 some years back. Mostly been shooting rifles since I sold them. I want a wheelgun, and have a few bucks saved up. I tend to buy things once for functional quality and have no regrets. That said, I think I want a Colt Python. I am not a collector, just want a nice sidearm for carrying in the woods at times but mostly target shooting. Any reason not to get a python? I know I'll have to drop at least $800.

 

[StrawHat]

Buy all you can at $800, around here the go for half again that number. IF you can find one.

Nice guns but I would rather have a S&W. For me, they are easier to work on and since I do most of my own work, easier is better.

 

[revolverforums]

A python for $800 is going to be pretty tough to find. They bring a premium price every place now. In very good condition with a 4" or shorter barrel expect to pay twice that price if not more. You might find a longer barrel one for $1100 or so or a rough one for that price.

There are other really good guns out there, the python just has the name. IMHO from the one I own they are no better in quality then many others. If I wanted a bulletproof shooter that was tough and would hold up to full loads for years and didn't want to break the bank you might consider a Smith and Wesson 28. Best bang for the buck in the revolver world IMHO.

Some of my 28's

But don't get me wrong, my python is a good shooter also but I don't consider them really worth the price they demand right now unless you find a bargain or just have to have a python.

 

[orchidhunter]

It might be hard to find a gunsmith to work on it, but not as hard as finding the parts for it. orchidhunter

 

[easyrider604]

I tend to buy things once for functional quality and have no regrets.

Since you said your buy things for functional quality, I think you are looking for a GP100. For 800 bucks, you can buy two GP100s

 

[Black Knight]

While I have two Pythons I would concur with others and say go with a S&W. Don't get me wrong there is nothing wrong with Pythons, but they are getting hard to find and even harder to find someone to work on them should they break. For your money I would recommend a S&W 586 or 686 depending on whether you want blue or stainless. They have a similar profile with the Python, will fit many of the same holsters, and are easier to find people to work on them. If you choose the S&W try to find one made before the lock. I have carried both (6" Python and 4" 686) as a security officer and both are capable of protecting and defending life but the S&W may have a slightly longer lifespan due to the availabilty of competent smiths who can work on them when a repair is needed.

 

[MMCSRET]

The Colt factory will repair any Python, and from all reports the turn around is good and very fairly priced. Check it out by calling the colt factory during east coast working hours. The won't work on anything as old as all mine which are pre- war, but they are happy to do Pythons.

 

[revolverforums]

MMCSRET I hope your right, they have my python right now to fix some issues with it.

 

[jbech123]

Thanks alot guys, really appreciate the advice. I thought if you had the coin, the python was the obvious choice, but you guys got me thinking. I've got some choices to make, but heck I guess there are worse fates than $1000 burning a hole in your pocket