I haven't handled a new Python. I have shot an old one quite a bit. When the 586 came out I thought it felt like a barrel heavy Python wanna be. Those days most of my shooting was single action so I can't comment on the DA pulls on either. The Python I shot had the snot shot out of it by a lot of people with no ill effects. The same time frame (late '70's) I got tp shoot a 5" 27 with factory grips. If I was given a choice for free, I'd take the Python. An L frame without the full lug I could get interested in. A 3.5" 27 with the right grips is on my list. The only 6" gun I have ever liked in any caliber was the Python. YMMV