I currently own 15 pythons and have fired about 5 of them but only shoot 1 of them regularly. I also own 4 686's. I am more of a collector than a shooter but I do shoot and I like revolvers. I think the python is a prettier gun and while Smith can do a nice job of bluing, the royal blue finish or a bright stainless finish on a python is a thing of beauty. Now when it comes to shooting I prefer the dbl action of the Smith and the Single action of the Colt but shooting both ways I would say I prefer the Smith a little bit more. I am pretty accurate with both. I don't like shooting full power 357 magnum when punching paper so I dont really worry about wearing out my guns.