What's up with the Pythons

BCDWYO · #51 02-27-2014, 06:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Donn

I've always been partial to S&W, but the Python's one of those I wish I'd made a move on when they were in production, when prices on new and used were in the realm of reality. Aside from the $$$, a Python would have to be a safe queen. Parts are getting hard to find, as well as guys who know how to work on them. Pythons were hand fitted, as close to custom as any production gun could be, (another reason Colt quit making them). You don't take Wedgewood china and Lennox crystal when you go camping. For the same reason, much as I'd like to, a Python would be my last choice for EDC. I'd even think twice about too many range trips. Too much to risk.

This was the exact reason I sold my Python when prices started to climb. I was just afraid to shoot it much and didn't know anyone who worked on them, so it was a safe queen. I honestly always preferred good S&W triggers anyway.

As to the wild rumors about one or two guys buying up "ALL" the pythons...I have a hard time swallowing that one. Pythons are out of production and scarce, but are still a LOT of them in existance...by no means are they rare enough for one or a few people to gobble them all up.

george minze · #52 02-27-2014, 07:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cocked & Locked

This thread needs to have at least one picture in it.

Or two I suppose...

That finish say's it all.......

ben_g1 · #53 02-27-2014, 08:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jimmyj

WELL !
Colt Pythons, and other Colt Revolvers are "High Price" plus Smith and Wesson Revolver are also climbing higher and higher in price

You sure got that right! I was watching three guns close to home (Iowa) on GB today. All three from same person and all three nice S&W 27-2 3 1/2" barrels in presentation cases. Two of the auctions ended at $1425. & $1757. The last one ends in 16 hr. and is up to $1075. Look out Pythons, there's a new sheriff in town

.

DR505 · #54 02-27-2014, 08:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rwsmith

I'll bet that in twenty years the 686 will be as much in demand as the Python is now.

To tell the truth, I never thought Pythons were so good looking. I'd like to see how they look without the ventilated rib.

Yes, I think they look silly, with that big bridge-looking vent rib over the little .357" hole in the muzzle. I've never been impressed with the Python. I've shot them and prefer the action of a good S&W.

koz5614 · #55 02-27-2014, 10:48 PM

I grew up in a S&W family, but I own one Colt revolver

I bought this Austin Behlert tuned Python in 2007 for $600. I wanted one because my dad had a four inch Python in the early 80s, and because of the movie "Electra Glide in Blue". I'm glad I bought it when I did; the prices have climbed to a point where "average" guys like me just can't afford one. The value of my revolver may have doubled, but my salary hasn't. Although it's a beautiful revolver, I'd put the fit & finish of my 27-2 up against my Python any day.

Ben_hutcherson · #56 02-28-2014, 12:13 AM

I like Colts, and in fact have three Colt double action revolvers in my collection. I also have an Official Police on lay-a-way at a local shop.

I've never shot a Python, but the to honest they've never really appealed to me. I'm just as happy with my Trooper 357 as I would be with a Python. I realize that the Trooper probably isn't as nicely hand-fitted as a Python(although it's very nice in and of itself) but I prefer it appearance wise to a Python and it cost me a third of what a similar condition Python would have.

We have discussions in watch collecting circles all the time about why relatively common pieces command high prices, while much rarer ones bring much lower prices. At the end of the day, even though Pythons are relatively common, there are a lot of folks out there looking for them and obviously able and willing to pay the prices they are bringing. I certainly don't fault anyone for paying the current going prices to buy a gun that they like. I'm just not going to be one of the people paying those prices.

oberon · #57 02-28-2014, 12:47 AM

Python is the absolute pinnacle of production double action revolvers. There are some customs that are as good and better for even more money. Mine was literally shoved into my hands for $435 OTD many years ago.
Now, you must understand, I am a S&W man. To me, the S&Ws are the real deal workhorse of service revolvers. Old ones & not so old ones. No doubt about it. Style, durability, reliable performance.

So why are there more Colts in my pile than anything else?
Well... some of 'em are 1903 & 1908 model Ms and Ns, and most of the rest are DAs that will never be made again. Lots of nostalgia & mystique in 'em. So there is a noticeable presence of 'em in my safe.
Most of my stuff is of the 'used' and 'well used', or 'beat-up' variety.
I ain't afraid to get into 'em and tinker 'em up and make 'em run decent. I do like the Colt lockwork & trigger, though.
By way of comparison, the S&Ws don't need tinkerin'. They just run the same year in & year out. Good guns, indeed.

Beemerguy53 · #58 02-28-2014, 01:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dennis The B

First, Colt stopped making them ca. 2007. With stopping production, comes scarcity in the market. The Python action was hand fitted; like no other revolver. The Python has a finish (Royal Blue, nickel) which was far better than any other Colt, and to some, superior to other manufacturers. That mystique remains, and it drives up the cost of the remaining market. What could be purchased for as little as $400 new, now commands prices in excess of $2000, and the price is not going down. One only has to decide when, or if, to jump into the fray.

The Colt action was unique. It continually "stacked" until the sear released. The S&W, on the other hand, stacked up to a certain point, and then used the same amount of pull to release the sear. Folks generally line up on one side, or the other.

The barrel on the Python has a tapered bore, which greatly added to accuracy. That's why the Smolt conversion (Python barrel, K frame) was a popular conversion. You just never see a S&W barrel, and a Colt frame. The Python is also larger than the S&W K frame (and the attendant problems with light .357 bullets), smaller than the N frames. That was a selling point.

The Python was a status symbol especially for some police officers. Carrying one denoted an elite status, if you will.

No one person can possible corner the market on used Pythons. There are thousands out there, and some folks won't sell their guns at any price. That's the way markets operate.

There are also niche markets within the general market. 2.5" and 3" models bring a real premium, because they're scarce within the family. The most common barrel length, 4" does bring the least money (relatively). There is a lot of fakery out there,too. Just look at the number of fake boxes, documentation, "California Combat" models, etc., that are for sale. Folks will pay a premium for the accoutrements.

I own three, and they're great revolvers.

You make excellent points, especially about the value of Pythons. Production has stopped, demand is still strong and growing, so prices will continue to rise.

I love my S&W revolvers...but I also love my two Pythons. Shooting them is a wonderful experience: They have the best trigger imaginable, and they are far more accurate than I am. It's never been a mystery to me why Pythons are so sought-after...

perrazi · #59 02-28-2014, 01:58 AM

this has been posted before, but due to the python discussion, could stand posting again.

rrob692326 · #60 10-03-2014, 02:07 AM

Own both a python and a 686 both with 6 inch barrels and I have to say the python has a better double action and the smith has a better single action. I don't shoot the python anymore since I had colt restore it. It is just a safe queen now like so many others. I will say I shot better with the smith. I paid 150 for it in the early eighties and it was in perfect condition.
Aloha
RR

ironhead7544 · #61 10-03-2014, 09:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 357-RevolverGuy

This is true. Considering that The Walking Dead is one of the top watched shows right now, it's main character (Rick Grimes) is responsible for a lot of the current demand in the Colt Python. I say it's both good and bad. Good that younger guys are getting interested in revolvers but bad that prices are going up.

Maybe this season Rick's Python locks up and he goes for a 686. Then I can sell mine for triple what I paid

You can also get his holster for only $200.00 or so.

BearBio · #62 10-03-2014, 09:13 AM

I have had both (and an Anaconda).

Yes, the Python is better. Is it THAT much better?.......Personal decision. I sold the S & W and the Anaconda but I will always have a Python. Are Pythons worth what they are asking for them??? Probably not!

S. Hammer · #63 10-03-2014, 10:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dennis The B

The Python was a status symbol especially for some police officers. Carrying one denoted an elite status, if you will.

Worked for me.

Saigon1965 · #64 10-03-2014, 11:45 AM

I enjoy being the current guardian of these -

PA Guns & Ammo · #65 10-03-2014, 06:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by koz5614

I grew up in a S&W family, but I own one Colt revolver

I bought this Austin Behlert tuned Python in 2007 for $600. I wanted one because my dad had a four inch Python in the early 80s, and because of the movie "Electra Glide in Blue". I'm glad I bought it when I did; the prices have climbed to a point where "average" guys like me just can't afford one. The value of my revolver may have doubled, but my salary hasn't. Although it's a beautiful revolver, I'd put the fit & finish of my 27-2 up against my Python any day.

I went on YouTube to check out that movie you mentioned. Looks pretty good. A lot of old cars, bikes, guns and probably other things I cannot mention. After watching the trailer, I have to see the movie. Thanks for mentioning it. ~James

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Q-hSSks9fU

gmiller0737 · #66 10-03-2014, 06:42 PM

I have Both a 686-M1 2 1/2" & A Stainless Python 4" As Far as Smoothness the Python wins hands down The Python is the more accurate of the 2 however some of that is likely due to the longer barrel length,I plan on keeping both but if 1 had to go it would Not be the Python!

BigBill · #67 10-04-2014, 09:57 PM

I didn't know my early pythons cylinder didn't loc up till the trigger was pulled. I got rid of a very accurate 357 magnum.
Stupid, ignorant me. I regret getting rid of my two colt 1911's too.
I should of had them repaired. I admit I made mistakes.

I just found an awesome series 80 colt 1911 in nickel. I bit the bullet and purchased it. Nobody, nobody does nickel like s&w and colt so far anyhoo. I just seen a nickel 6" python my buddy has.
We need to agree on a price. I do regret losing my python.

I think about the high priced python in one hand equals three s&w revolvers???

model70hunter · #68 10-04-2014, 11:44 PM

Amazing how some old threads resurface, just like the Walking Dead.
I remember how Bill Jordan put a Colt Python BBL on a SW and out shot one of his friends.

I have also read Colt used choke boring and the Python BBL decreased in diameter towards the muzzle which gave increased accuracy.

I sold my SAA's, 3-5-7 and extra Pythons keeping one 6" Blue Python.

I like both S&W and Colts. But I can still afford the occasional S&W.

A few years ago when Pythons were bringing a thousand bucks folks thought they were too high. Now many S&W's bring 1K and a Python will bring 2K and up. The difference I see is, folks who thought a 1K Python was too high are now buying S&W's for a grand.

Andyd · #69 10-05-2014, 12:24 AM

Whether someone is preferring a S&W action and grip over a Colt is mostly personal. There can be little doubt, though, that the earlier Colt Python is better finished and has had the action tuned better than any S&W 686 that I have owned or shot. I bought my Python pre-owned back in 1985 when it was almost twice as expensive as a comparable S&W M27, the gap has not widened very much.

As to the statement of the Colt Python being the pinnacle of revolver production, I am glad to have a wider experience that allows me to disagree.

The Korth has a set of five rollers that can be changed for a very exact stacking, the MR73 is also a little bit more advanced than the Colt Python action - and considerably more durable.

thardgrave · #70 10-05-2014, 12:35 AM

I only have two .357 magnums.....a no-dash M27 that I bought in 1964, and a Python that I acquired several years ago. Would I trade my 27 in on a Python? Not a chance....I will never sell or trade that gun.... Do I regret buying the Python? No way.....to me, it is one the most iconic guns ever made....like no other, and beautifully made. You will never get agreement on the relative merits of these two guns, much less convince a group of diehard Smith fans that the Python is in any way better or even equal. To me, I have the best of both worlds, and I am very happy that I do not have to argue over them......

But still my favorite handgun....

model70hunter · #71 10-05-2014, 02:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andyd

Whether someone is preferring a S&W action and grip over a Colt is mostly personal. There can be little doubt, though, that the earlier Colt Python is better finished and has had the action tuned better than any S&W 686 that I have owned or shot. I bought my Python pre-owned back in 1985 when it was almost twice as expensive as a comparable S&W M27, the gap has not widened very much.

As to the statement of the Colt Python being the pinnacle of revolver production, I am glad to have a wider experience that allows me to disagree.

The Korth has a set of five rollers that can be changed for a very exact stacking, the MR73 is also a little bit more advanced than the Colt Python action - and considerably more durable.

Of korth you would say that.

cobretti · #72 10-05-2014, 04:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BigBill

I think about the high priced python in one hand equals three s&w revolvers???

I found two 4" BSS Pythons at a shop and had to real quick sell off my 8 3/8" Model 25 and a Walther PP, both in like new condition, plus $300 to buy the one Python that was luckily still left when I got back there. As I've seen the same gun selling for almost $1000 more, I figure I did pretty good. So as for the 3 to 1 ratio, I can only shoot one at a time...

silentflyer · #73 10-05-2014, 05:59 AM

Supply and demand, Colt stopped production,people want them. Checked the price of say a S&W Model 53 lately?
Pre 1964 Winchester model 70's?
The Pythons/Diamond Backs are fine firearms with a beautiful finish.
Preference? Sort of like Blondes,Brunets and Redheads, to each his own,personally I like them all.....

kbm6893 · #74 10-05-2014, 06:46 AM

I think the Colts are ugly and not just the snakes. Wouldn't own one. If I was given one I'd sell it and buy 2 smiths and keep the change

Andyd · #75 10-05-2014, 10:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kbm6893

I think the Colts are ugly and not just the snakes. Wouldn't own one. If I was given one I'd sell it and buy 2 smiths and keep the change

Well,

I kept the Python and my nine Korths and just bought yet three more S&W revolvers.

The Python is not a classic for its looks. The early ones are just well made and shoot well. I shoot all my guns, even the Korths. If you judge guns by looks and not performance, you are in a different class than I am.

If I want something nice to look at, I have some original paintings.

kbm6893 · #76 10-05-2014, 02:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Andyd

Well,

I kept the Python and my nine Korths and just bought yet three more S&W revolvers.

The Python is not a classic for its looks. The early ones are just well made and shoot well. I shoot all my guns, even the Korths. If you judge guns by looks and not performance, you are in a different class than I am.

If I want something nice to look at, I have some original paintings.

I'm not judging them for their looks. But I DO buy guns for their appearance AND their functionality. If I don't like how a gun looks, I don't buy it.

But let's say I set aside my opinion on the Colts and bought one for the stupid price they are at now. What do they do better than a S&W or a Ruger? They fire a bullet that hits the target. I fired a Python once. Nice, but I couldn't really tell the difference between that and the 66 I was shooting. Sure, it felt different, but not better.

And if they were so great, why did Colt stop making them? S&W, Ruger, Taurus, Rossi, Charter Arms. They ALL make revolvers. So there's a market for them. It's not like Colt is out of business. Just out of the revolver business. Could it be that people realized that triple the asking price for a Python wasn't worth what they got for it?

BigBill · #77 10-05-2014, 07:51 PM

I really want to take a few different brands revolvers in 357 mag and have my own shootout comparing them with my reloads. I knew what my first python did at 100yds. with my Speer 140gr reloads which I still have some left. I figure the contest will be with all of them with 6" barrels probably at 25 yards.

bc1023 · #78 10-05-2014, 09:27 PM

The Python is a great revolver, I own quite a few.

However, the Manurhin MR73 is unquestionably the superior gun, in my opinion. Manufacturing processes were far better and the MR's strength and durability leaves the Python in the dust. It exceeds the refinement of the Python with a strength greater than a Ruger GP100. I think the Manurhin is one of the best revolvers ever produced.

Maximumbob54 · #79 10-06-2014, 09:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jimmyj

WELL !
Colt Pythons, and other Colt Revolvers are "High Price" plus Smith and Wesson Revolver are also climbing higher and higher in price.

**** Has anyone noted the prices on wood revolver grips lately ?? and the grips are just two pieces of carved wood with a screw.

I hear that. And the best part is while they are of decent quality it's not like they are top shelf quality. They have a rather cheap finish that tends to crack and chip free, the fit is hit or miss on many of them but for the oldest that were still hand fitted and numbered to the frames, the checkering sometimes has flaws, and it seems like a lot of the wood doesn't match all that well. It sound like I'm knocking them more than I mean to but it does shock me how some people elevate them. But then I could say the same about Colt wood grips and double so for Python wood grips. I know there is something to be said for the original grips but to pay an absorbent price for grips just because they are from the same era as your gun and they aren’t even fitted to your gun… Just ouch. And just for kicks they used a screw that isn't even easy to find if you lose it.

clang444 · #80 10-06-2014, 11:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gunfish

Colt 357 Model

I've got a Colt 3 5 7 too:

I also had a 4" Python but sold it some years ago. I held onto the 357 because it felt more "Coltish" to me.

Since the Python is quickly becoming unreachable for many people who would at least like to try out this revolver, there are a couple of options that are still relatively affordable. Find a 3 5 7, Officer's Model Match, Trooper (not MK III or V) or even an older Official Police. These guns have the same action and same size frame as the Python.

The Colt E/I frame size was designed to handle the Colt .41 caliber cartridge back when Colt still offered .41 caliber guns. That's why it is beefier than the S&W K frame.

Watchdog · #81 10-06-2014, 11:31 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bbates123

...are the Pythons really that much better than the 586/686 to merit what they're going for?

In my opinion...no. Like quite a few Smith & Wesson revolvers, the Python is no longer just a revolver...it has become a Cult Gun. Ditto for the Anaconda, but to a lesser extent. I know people who have Pythons. Only one of them actually shoots the thing.

Quote:

Originally Posted by bbates123

To me the only thing Python has going for it that the Smith doesn't is it looks slightly cooler with that ventilated rib.

Personally, I'm not real sure about that. Plus, I've always wondered about the purpose of a vent rib on a revolver. I suppose it might come in handy for mounting a scope with a clamp-on type of mount instead of drilling/tapping the frame, but other than that, I simply don't get it.

LimaCharlie · #82 10-06-2014, 12:39 PM

Love my Colts including the Python.

clang444 · #83 10-07-2014, 10:39 AM

Just thought I'd add a picture of some alternatives to the Python that I mentioned previously in this thread:

Officers Model Match in 38 Special, OMM in .22, the 3 5 7, Trooper in .22

The actions are very similar to the Pythons I've owned and shot. Accuracy is better than I am, but that isn't saying much (heck I can't even shoot a clear picture). Prices on these are starting to inch up too, so now's the time to buy one if you are interested.

I've also owned a couple of Official Police revolvers in .38 Special. Sometimes you can still find ones with holster wear and tight actions for very reasonable prices. I don't own one any more, but have in the past. Same action and similar frame, but fixed sights. Definitely worth having one in your collection if you don't want to spend the money for a Python.

BigBill · #84 10-07-2014, 07:23 PM

I have a tad of extra cash this month even with the oil mans first $500 visit soon. I might squeeze in a python if the price is right I'm haggling right now. I messed up big-time selling my first one.

Spartan 2 · #85 10-07-2014, 07:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by zirrow

The gun is featured prominently on a very popular TV show about zombies. Since it's cool to be prepared for the zombie apocalypse, demand has gone up, with the supply being fixed. It doesn't help that they went for a premium even before Rick Grimes started toting one around.

TV & Movies seem to have that effect. When the first Dirty Harry movie came out I wanted one of those 29s. Talked to one of the lgs and they said it would be quite a wait for one. Placed the order and a little over a year later I had it.

Saigon1965 · #86 10-08-2014, 09:35 PM

All beautiful pieces Gentlemen -

I have this old and nasty looking Peacekeeper -

Don't let the ugliness fool you though - I enjoy the action - It is quite smooth - Extremely accurate as well -

Oh and I don't care if I put a scratch on her!

steamloco76 · #87 10-09-2014, 09:18 AM

I owned a Royal Blue 8 inch Python for about five years. Purchased NIB for $400 and sold in 1993, after adding Hogue wood grips for $975. Just saw the same gun bid up to $2,150 and going on GB. People are nuts.
My Python was beautifully finished and felt like the action had roller bearings when you cocked it, however the S&W and Ruger I also owned at the time were every bit as accurate. Also, the short cylinder in the Python made bullets over 158 grains tough to use.
I have a Python substitute now, a 1950's manufacture Colt Official Police. Has a good deal of carry wear but she locks like a bank vault and shoots like a dream. Paid under $300 for it too.

S. Hammer · #88 10-09-2014, 10:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Saigon1965

All beautiful pieces Gentlemen -

I have this old and nasty looking Peacekeeper -

Don't let the ugliness fool you though - I enjoy the action - It is quite smooth - Extremely accurate as well -

Oh and I don't care if I put a scratch on her!

I used to have a 6" Peacekeeper. One of the most accurate revolvers I ever owned. Cost me a whopping $280 new in the box back in the '80's.

MarkAlt · #89 10-09-2014, 10:57 AM

I've only bought 3 Colt revolvers; 2 Pythons and a re-issue Detective Special, all from the early 90's...

[Sorry about the cam-phone photos]

There is a certain mystique with the Python that even Smith hasn't been able to duplicate. Just glad I grabbed a few. I shoot almost everything else, but they deserve to stay safe queens.