I have been thinking about this a while now. What do you all think about selling a Python to go towards a Freedom Arms revolver? I am thinking about one of their field grade jobs to use for hunting. My Python is a 4" SS from the early 90s. I don't use it at all and I bought it based on all of the history and love surrounding the Colt Offering. It is a great piece, but something inside of me is saying take the money and run. All opinions would be greatly appreciated. Philoe
Thinking about selling a Python...
- Thread starter philoe
- Start date
- Status
ColtPythonElite
Member
- Joined
- Jan 8, 2011
- Messages
- 10,477
Lots of guys will say "I would never sell a Python"...Not me. Sure, I love them, but know you can' take the money/items with you. If the gun no longer turns you on and you are certain you won't have seller's remorse. Let it go and use the $$ to fund what you want.
bikemutt
Member
Maybe this will help: I inherited a tie tack, made of gold and some other fancy stuff, that has sat for 20 years in a little box, in a drawer. I have fond memories of my uncle who's immediate family decided I should have the tie tack when he passed.
But when a local gold dealer offered me $600 for it, I sold it. No regrets.
I don't own a tie, never will. Now, when I shoot the King Cobra uncle Joe's tie tack bought me, I smile up, he smiles back.
Past emotional attachments are invaluable, using them to build future pleasures is priceless.
But when a local gold dealer offered me $600 for it, I sold it. No regrets.
I don't own a tie, never will. Now, when I shoot the King Cobra uncle Joe's tie tack bought me, I smile up, he smiles back.
Past emotional attachments are invaluable, using them to build future pleasures is priceless.
Coal Dragger
member
Well I have never owned a Python, but I do now own a Freedom Arms Model 83 Premier Grade in .454 Casull with a 6" bbl. So far I really like the Freedom, although I am not so enthusiastic right now about full blast 240gr loads since they are not much fun to shoot. No way to get around that, other than to reload to levels of power that I find more well balanced from a control, accuracy, and power standpoint. Fortunately this is pretty easy since the revolver is extremely accurate when I can do my part, and the inherent strength of the gun makes loads from mild to violent safe... if not much fun on the upper end. Then again as long as you hold on tight, and under no circumstances relax your grip, wrists, or elbows; even full power loads are no problem to hunt with.
Lock up is extremely tight on mine, with virtually no play discernible when the bolt is engaged in the cylinder notch and the hand is up. Fit and finish are also top notch. The trigger is crisp, but I will be getting a factory trigger job/over travel stop done when I get a .45ACP cylinder made for it. Overall I am quite happy with the FA, and the Premier Grade finish is easy to touch up with a Scotchbrite red abrasive pad so if you get a scratch in the finish you can simply buff it out by applying light pressure and following the "grain". Kind of nice to be able to keep it looking new even after riding around in a holster and otherwise getting used in the field.
Lock up is extremely tight on mine, with virtually no play discernible when the bolt is engaged in the cylinder notch and the hand is up. Fit and finish are also top notch. The trigger is crisp, but I will be getting a factory trigger job/over travel stop done when I get a .45ACP cylinder made for it. Overall I am quite happy with the FA, and the Premier Grade finish is easy to touch up with a Scotchbrite red abrasive pad so if you get a scratch in the finish you can simply buff it out by applying light pressure and following the "grain". Kind of nice to be able to keep it looking new even after riding around in a holster and otherwise getting used in the field.
Last edited:
22-rimfire
Member
I have bought and sold Pythons. I like them. But when I was looking for a handgun that I could easily sell and re-invest the money into revolvers I like better... I sold it. I almost never shot the Python. No regrets. I like the 6" NIB Colt Diamondback 38spl better anyway.
I really appreciate the responses. Bikemutts - thanks for the personal story, I am sure you and yours will enjoy that KC. CoalDragger-appreciate the insight- not many folks have the FAs, and that is what I was hopin for. Collectibility wise going forward, will FAs have a following, or will the SA platform limit their base of interest?
Zaydok Allen
Member
- Joined
- Feb 12, 2011
- Messages
- 13,274
I don't think you need to worry about SA going out of style anytime soon man. Anyone who loves revolvers would love to have a FA, even if they aren't that into SA shooting. I personally love DA/SA revolvers, but I have a hankerin to buy a SA. If I could afford it, you better believe it would be a FA. AAAAAAhhhhhhhh.......... Some day.
I think the price is the only thing that really limits the sales of FA. Lots of people just can't afford one, myself included. I really can't argue with them though when I look at the product.
Of course that being said, I love 4" SS Pythons, and want one more than a FA, so it's all a matter of interest and preference. If you don't shoot the Python, and you have no intention of passing it on, does it really mean that much to you then?
I think the price is the only thing that really limits the sales of FA. Lots of people just can't afford one, myself included. I really can't argue with them though when I look at the product.
Of course that being said, I love 4" SS Pythons, and want one more than a FA, so it's all a matter of interest and preference. If you don't shoot the Python, and you have no intention of passing it on, does it really mean that much to you then?
Coal Dragger
member
They seem to retain their value quite well for a gun that is still in production, but I don't think they are of the same investment quality as a Colt Python. More people know the Colt name, and that will always be an advantage where average collectors are concerned. It will be easier to sell a Colt Python for what you want out of it than it will be a Freedom Arms gun.
From a use standpoint I think the Freedom Arms will handily beat the Colt from an overall accuracy, versatility, and durability standpoint. This is not to disparage the Python which is a fine revolver, and all the ones I have handled have been very nice. I would love to own one someday, but I am a shooter first and a collector a very distant second. I buy guns based on what they can do, and how well they function, so for me a Freedom Arms is more desirable for a hunting/field gun. That said, both the FA and the Python in my estimation fall under the category of functional art rendered in metal.
Now I do have a few complaints about the Freedom Arms, as no gun is perfect. First of all the stock sights on the Premier grade are not click adjustable for windage, and the elevation adjustments are fairly coarse. While the sights are extremely solid, and should hold up to extremely hard use they are not exactly target sights. In order to make a windage adjustment one has to loosen the set screw on the sight blade and then make the adjustment desired with a screw driver. There are no clicks, and you simply screw in the direction you want to go, and hope it is the right amount. Then you tighten the set screw back down. You will need three different screw drivers to make sight adjustments, since the elevation screw, windage set screw, and windage adjustment screw are all different sizes. Once you get sighted in the setup is super rock solid, but it might take awhile longer to accomplish than you are used to.
I would also prefer the Ruger style cylinder pin release over the FA style that requires yet another screw driver to back out the set screw, then again this is a very secure arrangement. I suppose if I had my druthers I would also really prefer a transfer bar safety to be incorporated into the Model 83 like it has been into the Model 97. Maybe someday Freedom Arms will make this upgrade, and retrofit existing guns. This is not a deal breaker for me, and the hammer safety notch with the sliding safety bar is very solid. In order to make it work you have to have a holster with a safety strap so the hammer can't be pulled back inadvertently. Best practice is to carry over an empty chamber.
From a use standpoint I think the Freedom Arms will handily beat the Colt from an overall accuracy, versatility, and durability standpoint. This is not to disparage the Python which is a fine revolver, and all the ones I have handled have been very nice. I would love to own one someday, but I am a shooter first and a collector a very distant second. I buy guns based on what they can do, and how well they function, so for me a Freedom Arms is more desirable for a hunting/field gun. That said, both the FA and the Python in my estimation fall under the category of functional art rendered in metal.
Now I do have a few complaints about the Freedom Arms, as no gun is perfect. First of all the stock sights on the Premier grade are not click adjustable for windage, and the elevation adjustments are fairly coarse. While the sights are extremely solid, and should hold up to extremely hard use they are not exactly target sights. In order to make a windage adjustment one has to loosen the set screw on the sight blade and then make the adjustment desired with a screw driver. There are no clicks, and you simply screw in the direction you want to go, and hope it is the right amount. Then you tighten the set screw back down. You will need three different screw drivers to make sight adjustments, since the elevation screw, windage set screw, and windage adjustment screw are all different sizes. Once you get sighted in the setup is super rock solid, but it might take awhile longer to accomplish than you are used to.
I would also prefer the Ruger style cylinder pin release over the FA style that requires yet another screw driver to back out the set screw, then again this is a very secure arrangement. I suppose if I had my druthers I would also really prefer a transfer bar safety to be incorporated into the Model 83 like it has been into the Model 97. Maybe someday Freedom Arms will make this upgrade, and retrofit existing guns. This is not a deal breaker for me, and the hammer safety notch with the sliding safety bar is very solid. In order to make it work you have to have a holster with a safety strap so the hammer can't be pulled back inadvertently. Best practice is to carry over an empty chamber.
bergmen
Member.
As much as I respect the Python, I wouldn't trade my Model 83 in 454 Casull for one:
And I agree with Coal Dragger except I love the full house loads with the 240 grain XTP-MAG under 35 grains of W296.
If you get an opportunity, I would recommend shooting one first to see if it is what you want and need in a SA revolver. If I couldn't afford an FA, I would be very happy with my Ruger Bisley in .45 Colt:
Hand loaded with 250 grain XTP's under 25 grains of W296, it is a serious hunting handgun.
Dan
And I agree with Coal Dragger except I love the full house loads with the 240 grain XTP-MAG under 35 grains of W296.
If you get an opportunity, I would recommend shooting one first to see if it is what you want and need in a SA revolver. If I couldn't afford an FA, I would be very happy with my Ruger Bisley in .45 Colt:
Hand loaded with 250 grain XTP's under 25 grains of W296, it is a serious hunting handgun.
Dan
Coal Dragger
member
I just need to practice more with the full blast stuff, I don't know if the 7.5" bbl would make any difference for me or not. The FA was a gift, so I can't trade it off on a different one, but I suppose I could get a longer barrel installed... that way it is the same revolver just with a new barrel.
I have more interest in heavier bullets at around 1300-1400 feet per second, so a longer barrel is probably not that important since 6" is plenty of bore area to get a good burn on the powder.
I have more interest in heavier bullets at around 1300-1400 feet per second, so a longer barrel is probably not that important since 6" is plenty of bore area to get a good burn on the powder.
OldCavSoldier
Member
You got that right, brother!!
Another way to look at this is how the people who left you these memories would want you to enjoy them. That deceased Uncle would want you to enjoy his gift any way that made you happy. Every time that gun goes boom, you'll be remembering him. Enjoy.
On the other hand, I try to sell only what is replaceable if I regain an interest. A python is certainly replaceable, but at what cost? If you sell, which is fine, get the price you want. No less.
On the other hand, I try to sell only what is replaceable if I regain an interest. A python is certainly replaceable, but at what cost? If you sell, which is fine, get the price you want. No less.
JohnBT
Member
"I don't own a tie, never will"
I hear tie tacks make good pieced earrings.
Pythons are great, I love all of mine, especially the one that was my father's favorite, but they're just guns.
I hear tie tacks make good pieced earrings.
Pythons are great, I love all of mine, especially the one that was my father's favorite, but they're just guns.
jpdavis423
Member
Had both - still have the Python. The FA was too heavy and I never really have liked single actions.
Jeff
Jeff
bikemutt
Member
Ironically I had a guy offer to trade me a NIB Kimber Ultra Carry Pro for my Python today.
I have to say it's one nice Kimber, and I really want it, but not my Python, just won't do it.
I have to say it's one nice Kimber, and I really want it, but not my Python, just won't do it.
Sales Price?
I really appreciate all the input. I am unsure on what I am going to buy, but I have made my mind up that I am going to sell it. As much as I understand the "never sell a gun" point of view, the idea of enjoying the firearms that you have and using them often is where I'm at. Gunbroker has completed sales anywhere from $1100 ton north of $2000. What is a 4" stainless in 90+ condition with box and booklet going forapproximately?
I really appreciate all the input. I am unsure on what I am going to buy, but I have made my mind up that I am going to sell it. As much as I understand the "never sell a gun" point of view, the idea of enjoying the firearms that you have and using them often is where I'm at. Gunbroker has completed sales anywhere from $1100 ton north of $2000. What is a 4" stainless in 90+ condition with box and booklet going forapproximately?
CraigC
Sixgun Nut
Take the money and run! I know lots of folks say to never sell a gun and I reckon your take on the subject depends solely on your personal perspective, like anything else. Tastes and preferences change and evolve. What seemed like the be all, end all at one point in time can eventually become something that gathers dust. Don't be afraid to part with guns, just be sure to give yourself enough time to make the right decision.
Much wisdom in that statement!
Armored farmer
Member
My Python is not worth much as far as Pythons go, because it has been re-finished and tuned. It is a real shooter, and I'm not afraid to carry it. If it were a 'safe queen', I would be glad to trade it for a shooter.
IMHO, the real value of a gun is in the shooting part, not the collecting part.
IMHO, the real value of a gun is in the shooting part, not the collecting part.
Arkansas Paul
Member
Whatever snaps your cap brother. Personally, I agree with you. If I had a choice, I'd take the FA ten times out of ten.
LGS has nickel one with box with long barrel (10"?) with tag of $3000. While I do not see anything special about them I would keep it if I already owned one.
The FA with Magna ported barrel and electo-optical sight is excellent hunting gun. It would be far more useful then a .357 Colt.
The FA with Magna ported barrel and electo-optical sight is excellent hunting gun. It would be far more useful then a .357 Colt.
ColtPythonElite
Member
- Joined
- Jan 8, 2011
- Messages
- 10,477
A lot of that depends on how much above 90% the gun is. There is a huge difference in the going rate of a 91% gun and a 99% gun. Your box and paperwork are bonus. Is it a cardboard box or the later blue box? If it is blue, does it still have the barcode on the end?
A NIB unfired SS is a $2000 gun. A shooter with the box, is not IMO. I'd probably give close to $1500 for a nice boxed shooter, though.
A NIB unfired SS is a $2000 gun. A shooter with the box, is not IMO. I'd probably give close to $1500 for a nice boxed shooter, though.
oasis618
Member
How much?I'll sell my Sister if the money is right....
- Status
