Should I put factory stock grip back on my Colt Python?

[AirPower]

Got this nice Python, and it looks great, it came with this set of beautiful laminated grips, and also original brownish Colt grips. These are so much better but I'm wondering if it detracts the "original" feeling of the Python. By the way, it's a "V" dated Python, can anyone let me know which year it is from? THanks.

 

[dfariswheel]

A Python somehow just doesn't look "right" unless it has the original Colt Target grips on it.

However, the original grips were designed for single action target shooting and are awful for most shooting.

Many of us keep the original Colt factory grips for looks, but when we actually shoot the gun, something like yours go on.

I got your serial number answer on the other Python post you made.

 

[mistabud]

i shot my python a while back for the first time and i didnt like the stock grips. today i bought a set of houge grips and went to the range. to say that shooting .357 mags out of it with the houge grips is more pleasant would be a undersatement. that being said, the gun was made to shoot and if that means putting aftermarket grips on it then thats what needs to be done. but then again its all a matter of opinion. shoot it as often as possible!

 

[GUNKWAZY]

Hello Airpower.
Nothing beats stock minty factory grips when it comes to the collectability of an original Colt.
As for shooting that Python of yours. It looks to be a set of Badger boot cut grips you have on her currently. Badger makes some wonderful grips and I myself have a few different sets. I find that the boot style like you are showing only allows a 2 finger grip. The pinky on your shooting hands sits only on the bottom. Badger makes a full sized grip that allows the shooter to get a FULL grip. The trouble with the boot grips is that if you shoot some hot loaded 357's through your Python, you may not feel totally in control. If your Python is a shooter for you, and you like the aftermarket look, you may want to purchase a set of full size badger or hogues to wrap that gun with.
Truth is, some of the aftermarket grips like the laminated badger & exotic wood hogues are getting very pricey as of late. You will end up paying in the $60-80 range for a NEW set.
If she's not a shooter, put an original Colt set back on her.
Hope that helps.

Jeff (GUNKWAZY)

 

[Majic]

Just remember to don't ever lose or get rid of the original stocks. If you ever decide to go back to being original sticker shock can be devastating.

 

[Standing Wolf]

I've got a shoe box full of original Colt stocks. They're in plastic bags with notes indicating which Pythons and Diamondbacks I removed them from as soon as I brought them home. They're ugly and completely useless for hanging onto guns, but necessary to keep for resale value.

My newest Python, a lovely 2.5-inch bright-polished stainless model, included monumentally ugly black rubber grips with fake gold Colt medallions. I removed the wretched things before taking off my coat.

 

[GUNKWAZY]

Hey Wolf,
Are you the one that just bought the one on GB ?
Congrats. She looked nice.

Jeff (GUNKWAZY)

 

[6inch]

The V dates are from 1978 into 1980.

1978... V01001 thru V36736

1979... V36737 thru V88373

1980... V88374 thru V99999