Thinking of picking up the big snake.

[Clifford]

I've allways wanted a Colt DS and a Python but I've never run across any at my local gun shops. The other day I stop by one of em' and an employee (who knows I've been looking for a Colt revo) tells me he may have somthing I want to see.

He pulls out of a display case a stainless 6" barreled Colt Anaconda. I looked it over and other than a faint ring on the cylinder and a ratty looking set of pacmyers it look great.

I don't own a .44 thou I load for and shoot my father in-laws blackhawk regularly. So even thou I wanted a 38/357 I could justify a .44. My question to all is how do the Anacondas stack up to the pythons in longevity? It'll see around only 1000-2500 mid level (240's at 1000-1100 FPS) per year and I don't want to have it re-worked more than once every 5 years. Also the shop is asking $999 for the gun. Should I buy it at that price or pass?

The same shop also has a S&W 547 4" 9MM revolver that has got my attention!

 

[FTSESQ]

While the Anaconda's are great guns... $999 may be a little steep depending on its condition. The Anacondas use a completely different lockwork than the Python, and the comparison is not apples to apples.

**** NOTE... This is not to say that the Python is delicate. It is not. This is an internet myth perpetuated by ignorant fools. They are one of the strongest systems around. Mine are DOB Swiss time piece accurate in terms of timing and in over 10 years of regular shooting only one required minor tuning. Because of their design, they may require a little more TLC, but that doesn't make then delicate. Just because something requires more maintenance doesn't mean that it is weak. A Ferrari requires more maintenance than a F150, but the trade off is obvious. If you want to read more, please look here:

http://www.grantcunningham.com/blog_files/colt_python_delicate.html

legendary revolver-smith Grant Cunningham talks about this in detail... But this is a question about the ANACONDA.... So iI will digress. The Anaconda is a fantastic gun. Accurate as all heck, rock solid and reliable, and able to digest even the stoutest loads. The different lockwork however means that the trigger will not be as silky smooth as the Pythons. If the gun is in good condition, and you can afford it, I would buy it. They are no longer made, but will serve you well for many years to come. Oh... and they are prettier than any other 44Mag made.

 

[Clifford]

Thanks for the link, Mr Cunningham gives a good explaination of the reasons pythons are saddled with the finicky label.

My father shot competitively in the late 70's thru the early 90's and used Colt pythons for most of those years. He had mentioned that he would have the Colts "tuned" every 15-20k rounds. But he still prefers them over most Smith's.

 

[Buck Snort]

When I read the title I thought for SURE this thread was going to get locked!!!

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

The Anaconda is styled to look like a Python, but uses the King Cobra - itself a descendant of the Trooper MKIII - style lockwork with a coil mainspring, not the Python action. This in no way diminishes its usefulness. The price being asked for this one, with "ratty looking" non-original grips, is pretty high, IMO.

 

[FTSESQ]

He had mentioned that he would have the Colts "tuned" every 15-20k rounds. But he still prefers them over most Smith's.

Exactly. 15-20k rounds is probably 10 time the amount of rounds that your average revolver will see in its owner's life time. This is another example of how robust Colts are. If he had them tuned every 15-20K, than its proof that a well maintained Colt will go the distance, and IMHO, do it smoother and classier that all the rest.

 

[TechBrute]

I've got one, 6" barrel, factory ports. It's enjoyable to shoot, and definitely an attention getter.

 

[snooperman]

The price seems a little high to me...

however, they are a very strong gun and will last a long time. If you want one , take a little more time in your search as you should be able to beat that price. The idea that the Python is weaker than other 357 magnums is the result of people who do not know much about them or have not shot them for any length of time. I have been shooting them since 1962 and have not ever had a problem with any that I have. Good luck to you and good shooting too.

 

[snooperman]

FTSESQ , thanks for the article you posted from Grant Cunningham..

a person who really knows his stuff. At age 70 my eyesight is not as good as it once was and had to use a magnifying glass but enjoyed the article very much. I also share your sentiments about the Colt revolvers as they are my favorite handguns. After reading all the nonsense about Colts , on this web site, it is refreshing to get it straight from the people who know. Thanks again.

 

[TechBrute]

It's always the people that agree with you that "know their stuff."

 

[Fremmer]

Nothing against the Anaconda, but if you're willing to spend a thousand on that, then you might as well pay some more to get the Python. Jmho.

A Python is a much nicer gun than the Anaconda, but that's jmho, and I have seen some nice Anacondas, too.

 

[CWO USN]

You stated, "a ratty looking set of pacmyers." Actually Colt outfitted the Anaconda's with a neoprene synthetic rubber finger-grooved combat-style grips with nickel colored 'Rampant Colt' medalion.

As another missive pointed out, comparing Anacondas or other big bore Colt revolvers to their flagship (at the time) Python is like comparing Rolex is to Timex. Different quality, feel, performance, etc.

I've seen some offered for sale in of both the 6" and 8" bbl lately. Private seller asking anywhere between $780 to $1000.

 

[captain awesome]

I have one and love it. it is extremely accurate, I can nail gallon water jugs at 100 yards easily with Nothing but the stock iron sights. I have had absolutely no problems with it. that being said, mine is in perfect condition save the cylinder turn line, and I paid less than that. talk him down a bit and you wont regret it.

 

[Confederate]

The Anaconda is no Python, but in my view it's overpriced and a bit heavy. The gun is accurate, but no more so than the Ruger Redhawk or the S&W 629. It will cost you more, however, and you'll be paying a lot for the name. In short, the gun is stronger than the Smith, but it's still got a side plate -- so given the price I'd go with the Ruger. If I was going to hunt or use it in the field, I'd choose the lighter 629.

The Anaconda didn't get great reviews, because the price was first rate and the accuracy and action wasn't, I don't really recommend it.

 

[Clifford]

Fremmer, I would love to get a Python. Problem is I haven't found one locally, I will NOT purchase a weapon without looking it over first. I know many on-line suppliers have return policys, but I prefer to buy locally.

Thanks for all the input everyone!!!