S&W Model 27 versus Colt Python

Which one do you like best and why?

Lincoln vs Cadillac...
Cadillac vs Lincoln...

" What do you wanna' drive today???"

.357 Magnum ( Pre-27)



Python 2 1/2"


Then they Multiply...





Two of these are Diamondback's..

I gave this a fair amount of thought, and have to say that I like my Pythons a bit better than my 27 (or other N frame .357s I have owned over the years. This is reflected in the number of each ncurrently in my collection - 3 Pythons (2.5" Nickel, 4" Blue, 6" Factory-Tuned Stainless) vs. 1 Mod 27 (8 3/8" Nickel). I like the action of the Python a bit better than the 27 (although all are excellent), and the Pythons are, generally, a bit more accurate than any of my N-Frame .357s have been, and I've owned a bunch more Pythons and N-Frame .357s over the years, of varying barrel lengths. I like the balance of the Python a bit more than a similar barrel length 27, as well. Top off those factors with Colt's beautiful Royal Blue finish, which is, IMHO, superior to even older 27 bluing, and the scale is tipped, for me, in favor of the Python. That being said, none of my Pythons or my 27 will be leaving my possession - all are wonderful guns that are a joy to shoot! Frankly, it comes down to personal preference.

One other thing - many will bemoan the Python's supposedly "delicate" action. Not true, in my experience. My Dad's 4" Blue Python was in the family since around 1960 (I believe it was a first year 4" gun), and was the first centerfire handgun I shot (handgun training was with Dad's 1954/55 K-22, so I have a long history with both Pythons and S&W) until it, along with a lot of other guns, was stolen a few years ago. It was carried and fired a lot (daily, back in the '60s) over the years, and never did go out of time even a bit, keeping the "bank vault" lockup all that time. Oh yeah, almost all of the shooting was with full power .357 magnums, with .38 Specials having been used very little in that gun. My 2.5" Python (built in 1965) was also carried and fired a lot over the years, and started showing some of the very early signs of a timing problem last year. I sent it to Colt, and they went through the gun and brought the action back to new specs for a very nominal charge (less than $90, including shipping), and it is now as good as, or better than, new. Not bad, one repair over 45 years of constant use. They also replaced the sights (per my request, but at no charge) with new sights (RR front, White Outline Rear), as the original matte nickel sights were too darn hard to see any more (getting old). Yes, repairs to Colt DA revolvers require either a smith very experienced in them or a trip to the factory, IMHO, but S&Ws need occasional repair, also - it is, usually, a bit easier to do for most gunsmiths. S&Ws also go out of time occasionally (we did a lot of S&W timing repairs when I owned my gun shop), as well as developing end shake and other malfunctions. All are mechanical devices, and will require maintenance over time.

Again, it comes down to personal preference. I think the best solution to the quandary is to have both, Pythons and 27s. Colt's premier handgun, and S&W's top-of-the-line .357. Can't go wrong with that - truly the best of both worlds!

Mod. 27 vs. Python? A no-brainer for me. I'll take a S&W over the Python every time if we're talking about a shooting gun.

The pony people made a sweet-looking snake, but the N-frame Smith fits me like no Colt ever will. No Python will ever replace my 5" Model 27.

ditrina said:

Lincoln vs Cadillac...
Cadillac vs Lincoln...

" What do you wanna' drive today???"




Python 2 1/2"

Then they Multiply...

Click to expand...

WOW. that takes my breath away.

any chance you might post a few more shots of the Colt?

I've owned both, carried both, and shot both. Then I sold the Python. Don't get me wrong, it was a great gun, but at the end of the day it lacked the stamina of the Model 27.

From a purely investment standpoint the pricey Python is probably a better buy/investment. But if you are going shoot your gun, you stand a better chance of finding a local 'smith to work on your 27 than finding someone to work on the Python.

Python. I've owned a Python and a 28 in the past and I truly miss the Python. To me, the N Frame is too big for the .357, the Python is just right.

Each is the top of its respective line. S&W shooters favor the 27. Colt shooters favor the Python. I own both and like both just fine. I have more 27s than Pythons but if the Colts weren't so damned expensive I would have a couple more of them.

As nice as the 27 is the Python clearly outshines it in fit and finish. The Python was largely hand fitted and polished as opposed to the mostly assembly line production of the 27. The bad part is when you want to swap parts. In my experience two N frames will trade hammers and triggers about 95% of the time with no fitting required. Forget it with a Python. Hell, the stocks were individually sanded to each gun's frame meaning the wood will seldom swap between guns. Installing replacement stocks on a Colt can be a real adventure.

Love the 27:






Love the Python:

I shot competitively back in the day. My Python is a tack driver. My problem with it is that the DA pull is progressive. My Model 28 has the smoothest, lightest DA I have on any gun. The Python's SA breaks like glass and is a dream. The SA on the 28 is good, but feels like junk compared to the Python. Recoil on the 28 is lighter (particularly with heavier loads) due to the heavier weight. I have more confidence with heavy loads in the 28 -- I mean, just look at that cylinder!

So basically, it is a toss up. Both are fantastic guns, both have drawbacks. I vacillated between the two guns when I was competing, but the Python had the edge by a little since we generally used wadcutters -- plus I shot my first perfect score with the Python, so I have kind of a soft spot for it. But I carried the 28 on more by a wide margin.

Always loved the Pythons, always hated the fact that the ejector rod is too short to push the shells out, all pythons are gone, Have a 627, 27 and 28! Guess I have to go with the 27!

Python squeezes past the 27

GyMac said:

To me, the N Frame is too big for the .357, the Python is just right.

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That hits the nail on the head for an all-around gun.

Python is tops for fit and finish, accuracy, size efficiency, and that cool, sexy collector pride and joy.

N Frame Smiths are good for .44 mag use, hunting, truck guns, range use, or for gorilla-sized shooters who just want more metal.

While I don't own a Model 27, just a lowly RM, shooting it is probably close enough to count as Model 27 experience. I also own a 1967 4" Python. Both are extremely smooth, in both double and single action. I have fired both from a rest, and the Python bests the RM in accuracy, at least on that one occasion. But the RM's double action is easier to control, and feels like the cylinder is rolling on ball bearings once it gets moving, whereas you all know the Python's pull gets heavier towards the end (stacks). I love both, but the RM's massive size and weight instills confidence when shooting Magnum loads. It seems both are increasing in value faster than the stock market.

Jared

I recognize the grips on that Python snubbie

ditrina said:

Lincoln vs Cadillac...
Cadillac vs Lincoln...

" What do you wanna' drive today???"

.357 Magnum ( Pre-27)

Python 2 1/2"

Then they Multiply...

Two of these are Diamondback's..

Click to expand...

While I don't want to seem like I'm...

...on the fence, it's a very tough decision.

Both have very strong points, and few weaknesses. I like my Python because there's just nothing like the way it locks up. It also has a superior finish. The Model 27 epitomizes the large frame high power revolver.

They're really two different concepts. I'm glad I don't have to make a choice.

About 5 months ago I was contemplating my first purchase of a quality revolver.

Factoring in the price, the Model 27 was definately the way to go.

I got a 3.5" Model 27-2 instead of the Python, and I liked it so much I went and bought a 5 inch 1955 .357 Magnum.

I cannot imagine a better revolver than the 5 incher.

My $0.05's worth. I have both. A 6" python from the custom shop in 1980 and lots of Smiths. My Python went of time and I had to peen the legs on the 2 stepped hand to bring it back in time. Twice I've had to replace the V-shaped main spring due to getting light primer hits(miss fires). Its a beautiful gun, abeit a bit delicate if you shoot it alot.
Never had those problems with any of my .357 Smiths. My vote goes to Smith & Wessons 27's/28's.

I was a devoted Python fan, then I picked up a 6" 27. I was amazed at how well I shot with it. Before I knew it, I had a couple more 27's. I like them both.

Geez, I hope you asked this same question over on the Colt Forum, fair play and all. I wonder how many over there would pick the Smith over the Colt??

There is an alternative however, the SMOLT or as some would call it the SMYTHON. I guess it depends on where your loyalties lie...........

As for me, I love my Python, but I gotta tell you, the Smith action is just so much more workable..........smooth. The Python action is juicy, whereas the Smith action is crisp. Sorry, best analogy I could come up with on short notice!

I sold my Python not because it was not a great gun but because it was not comfortable in my hand (long trigger reach for me with factory grips) and if it ever needed any work...well...good luck. It had a butter smooth action and Pythons are beautiful revolvers but Smiths fit my hand better, can be serviced and I can have two great Smiths or one great Python. Also my Python was a safe queen and I didn't want a gun I couldn't shoot at least now and then without hurting it's value.

Mike, that gun wasn't right for some reason. I have Troopers from the 1960s and Target Models going back to 1909 (all with the exact same action as the Python) that have shot countless rounds without a hiccup.