There’s an interesting thread on the Colt forum, regarding whether the Python is all it’s cracked up to be. I don’t own a Python, but admire them greatly. I was surprised in reading the thread, that several responders were quick to point out that their favorite S&W’s stacked up at least good, if not better than Pythons that they own. While I’ve seen many Pythons over the years and have shot a few, I put myself the the category of having a hard time believing that the Python either looks better or shoots better than my 1979 M57. So, what’s your opinion? How does a Python rank with your favorite S&W?

I never owned a really High End Revolver, and am currently Shopping for one. I really have my Heart set on a S&W 27-2 6", but have been thinking that a 6" Original Python might also be nice.
I have always preferred the Mechanics of the S&W, over the Colt.
So I'm looking Locally for one. Don't want to take a chance on Mail Order used ones.

Problem is cost.

A good python these days is going to cost you about what a decent Registered Magnum will. There's absolutely no comparison between the two.

Stack it up to a much cheaper 27 with some fine rosewood stocks? The choice is an absolute no brainer.

I don't like ventilated ribs, even on shotguns.

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"Don't Give Up the Ship"

I wanted a Python so badly when Starskey & Hutch was on.. but my dad wouldn't buy me one... had to suffer with shooting his 66 4 inch... I did get to shoot a few Pythons growing up and I ended up here... Smith & Wesson for the win...

Your perception of Python vs. S&W mechanics is spot on. Pythons are excellent revolvers. I wish they all had finishes like Pythons, but Pythons fall just a bit short in mechanical comparison. Pythons are noticeably scarce as hard used competition guns or conversions for competition. I sold mine years ago for the cost of two nice M-27's or four M-28's and don't regret it.

I always though the Python looked funny, really all Colt revolvers except the SAA. I’m also not a big fan of the V spring. I have always felt Smith was a better gun, and have always been delighted my preference is the less expensive option. Aside from revolvers, that’s typically not the case.

Too me , Pythons are bought when you have all the S&Ws you are interested in and maybe some back ups.
Maybe you are a little bored with S&W and need some variety ???
Yeah,,,, Pythons are good for that.

I’ve seen the term “Registered Magnum” before, but don’t know what this is. Please explain.

Off and on over the decades I've
owned Pythons, some notably from
their heyday of the 1960s. And
I shot them extensively, mostly
in double action.

But the S&W be it K, L or N frame
is superior in double action. And
I'll go so far as to say in single
action as well.

No denying the Python is a gorgeous
revolver with a fit and finish often
superior to the S&W. But those
features don't outweigh the virtues
of the S&Ws as shooting irons.

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Ubi Est Mea

From an armorer's and a shooter's perspective, I'll have to agree in terms of the superiority of the S&W action design.

The Python is a beauty no doubt, until you remove the sideplate to attempt a repair. The original design of this Colt model is much more difficult to disassemble and re-assemble, and to repair in my opinion.....more difficult by far than any model S&W.

Another interesting thing to note is that Colt never offered an armorer's school as far as I know. Not sure how or if they trained people on specific gunsmithing techniques in terms of repair of these revolvers.

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Ret. LE, FA Instr, S&W Armorer

Have to agree with all the above posters. I own 2 Pythons from the 60's era and one Pre M27 from 1957 and the fit and finish on both revolvers is superb. Undoubtedly the S&W is a much stronger gun and the action is much, much, better, in double action.
As far as accuracy goes, I have shot both my Pythons and both will shoot very well if I do my part.
Sadly, I have never fired my S&W. It is a 6"er and in very good condition, but I have not gotten around to shooting it, but I would be willing to bet the S&W will be more accurate.
I have had the Pythons so long, I paid $125 for one and $800 for the other. Everyone should own at least one Python. Both mine are 6"ers. Big Larry

Bryan, you can start with this thread: What Is A Registered Magnum

If you really want to get into the information available here on the Forum, go to this thread and scroll down to “Pre-War .357 Magnum”: Notable Thread Index

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Terry Lester

Well, being long in the tooth I was around 40 to 50 years ago.

Python bug had bit many at that time, but so had a Smith 29.

At that time, to get your hands on a new 29 was more $$$
than a Python.

Considered both, the 29 was a no-brainer, shot the bejezzus
out of it, and never regretted passing on a Python.

6 1/2 in. 29-2

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Bought my first Python in 1980 and still have it (see below) and since then bought a number of others and traded or sold all of them except this one. This one belonged to a Seattle policeman and has perhaps the best DA trigger of any gun I've owned; one of the reasons I've kept it. The others went when I felt their value exceeded their utility (usually in trading for S&Ws or other toys). The last one, a bright stainless six inch (not pictured), was traded for a five inch pre-27, an 8 3/8 27-2 and a 4 inch 25-5 refinished in hard chrome. I really don't miss the Pythons, probably will never buy another. Anybody here who wouldn't have made that trade?

Jeff
SWCA #1457

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I think two of the best revolvers I have is a 2.5 inch Colt Python in high polished stainless (ultimate) with Sambar Stags, and a 3.5 inch blue pre-27 Smith&Wesson with Rosewood ''Coke grips" both with vintage hand carved holsters. Two of the best of the gun makers art, and I love em both........................................M*

I have two 6" Pythons I've owned for a long time. I've fired both extensively but mostly with cast .38 Special loads. I shoot Bullseye style and can't recall ever shooting the Pythons double-action. As for Colt shooting guns, I prefer a couple of 6" .357 models I've also had a long time; they're not muzzle heavy like Pythons and are just as accurate.

Comparing Pythons to S&W 27s or others S&Ws is tough - they're all good guns. I question the alleged fragility of Colts. I haven't seen it, but others claim to have experienced it.

I couldn't imagine buying an older Python these days simply because of the prices. If you want an accurate revolver, you can do at least as well as a Python for a lot less money.

I realize some like to buy guns and put them in a safe for someone else to fight over or sell some day - a sad choice I've never understood, but it's their money and their gun so I suppose it's none of my business.

STILL waiting for my 6" SS Python to arrive. But when it does I have a bunch of M27's , M28's, M19s, GP100's, Security Sixes, Dan Wessons M15's , Taurus' and Rossi's to test it against.

I just wish I had more ammo. A box of .38 sp and a box of .357 mag doesn't seem like it will be enough.....

I also have a Colt Trooper Mk V on the way. Colt against Colt will be interesting.

I can't wait to see who'll be "King of the Hill" when all the gun-smoke clears.

I have always wanted a Python, but the prices and the commentary from my departed gunsmith always brought me back to reality.

However, back in October, when I participated in the Adaptive Defensive Shooting Summit at the Sig Academy, there was a Colt representative in the Demo bay with a "4"" Python, a new King Cobra, a Gold Cup and a Combat Elite 1911. It was the first time in my 63 years that I ever fired a Python. Shooting it single action was a pure dream, almost as good as my K38s. Shooting it double action, it was almost as slick as my new 686-6 3". Then, I was told that Colt has plans to reintroduce a blued Python. I might just have to get one, inspite of what Bill (my gunsmith) would warn about Colt trigger jobs!

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Judge control not gun control!

My 58 year old 29-1 has tighter cylinder lockup than my brand new Colt Python. They just don't make them like they used to.

Maybe I can explain.......Back in the 70s and 80s I bought two pythons, one 6in blue and one 6in stainless. blue one I gave $389.00 the stainless I gave $759.00 two years ago sold em both, blue one sold for $2,500.00 and the stainless one sold for $3,000.00 both new in the box unfired......thats the reason...................................M*

This debate flares up every so often and more S&W owners so more guys swear this or that model of S&W is superior to the Python. To prove how much brand loyalty affects thinking I have seen folks argue that the Model 28 and Model 686 were better than the Python. That is nothing short of insane.

The only S&W that can even compete with a Python (not including the new issue Python as I have no experience) is the 27. I have multiple examples of both 27s and Pythons and in my opinion the Python has the finest fit and finish of any production revolver ever made. The RM may edge it, but the RM was a semi custom revolver.

Two of my Pythons.




I shoot them better than I do any S&W except a 25-2 I sold because I hated the clips.

6" group

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No life story has happy end.

Pythons are pretty, but the grip ia all wrong for Me. I've had early and middle Pythons and diamond backs. The grip is tough to hold so the front sight is there. No longer have any, just Smiths.

I traded a Ruger Blackhawk for a used Python in about 1972. I enjoyed the Python but traded it for a better Colt: a Gold Cup.

The Python is the most beautiful revolver I’ve ever owned (including a bunch of Smiths) but wasn’t a noticeably better or worse shooter than the Smiths.

The Gold Cup, on the other hand, was a better shooter than either the Smiths or the Python. It also had the superior Colt blue as did the Python.

I have been shooting pistol matches since 1979 to the present time, all with revolvers. I have owned 4 Colt Pythons when the were current production in the 80s. They are the best looking revolver ever made, to my eyes. They did not hold up to firing a lot of rounds, 30,000 to 50,000 a year. The actions stack up as you pull the trigger, similar to a coil spring revo. If you tune the action, it can be better, but not nearly as good as a tuned K,L, or N S&W. I had a Trooper I didn't like at all.

Since the mid 80s, I have shot all S&W revos with good success. All the Colts are long gone now, but I still enjoy looking at them. My 686 PPC gun probably has close to 200,000 rounds through it (2nd barrel) and is doing fine. It will outlast me. I have several 686s in various configurations, plus others. They all have very good triggers except for the carry guns which remain stock. Some of them are cut for moon clips, the best and fastest way to recharge a revolver.

Bottom line, I will take a Smith over a Colt every time, because of the much better DA trigger pull, especially since you can get 2 to 4 S&Ws for the price of one Colt. Not even the Manhurin, Korth, Janz, or any other revo can have the DA trigger of a tuned Smith & Wesson.

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protocalldesign.com

I still have my 1978 6" Royal Blue Python, in the original box and unfired. Right now it is going to stay that way. I do love my 6.5" model 27 also from the 70s.

Hard to compare the finish on the original Royal Blue Pythons to anything else, but they go out of time with hard use.

Bob

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Sag Harbor & Manhattan, N.Y.

This





vs this





Tough decision

Get both of them!

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protocalldesign.com

Its all about the cost.

If a Python and a 586 cost the same, very few people would pick the 586.

I have two Pythons and 20 or 30 Smiths, because I run across sub-$500 Smiths all the time and I can usually swing it. Not so with a Python.

Is a new Python worth twice what you’d pay for a similar 586? Or is an older one worth 3 - 4 times? To me, yup. I recognize its not rational.

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“What you got, ain’t new.”

I owned a Python for a short while. Make no mistake, it is a fine revolver. It's looks cannot be denied, nor can it's accuracy. Two reasons, one real, one more theoretical, made me trade it off. Most important, it just was not comfortable in my hands. Grips wrong, balance wrong. Yet, other people loved it, so it was not the gun but me. Second, the S&W action is more durable than the Python's under heavy usage. I doubt I'd ever have shot it enough for that to be a factor, but...

Of course, if I were a collector and not a shooter, I'd probably still have it.

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Pisgah

Bob... Do you remember what you payed for the python in 1978?....................................M*

I had three pythons about 20 years ago.
The triggers were better than any S&W I have ever had.
But I just couldn't stand the shape of the grips and sold them.

Should have tried a set of Hogue grips like I did on my 4'' python made a world of difference.........................M*

As I've stated here before. I've owned a Python for 40 years. Bought NIB from Colt's custom shop in 1980 for $480.00. I haven't shot it in a couple of years. It went out of time twice and I had to peen(lengthen) the top leg of the hand both times to get it back right. Had to replace the V-spring because it started snapping. Haven't shot it in years. Much prefering my more reliable Smith's. Only reason it's still here it was gift from my wife for building her a house.

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S&W Accumulator

I've never owned a Python, never wanted too. I never could get use too the way the trigger stacks up shooting double action.

I really don't like the cylinder release on Colts. I prefer the S&W release that relaeases by pushing and not pulling like the Colts. The grip on the Python doesn't fit my paw and looks funny.

Esthetically I don't like full lug barrels Smith & Wesson or Colt. Between the full lug barrel and the shape of the grip the Python just isn't balanced to my eye. The lines don't flow well. The Python just isn't pleasing to look at. Of course different strokes for different folks.

Now to the Python finish. It is shinny, deep and bright. Big but here. But I've never liked how the Python was polished. by that I mean they used a soft buffing wheel. Surfaces that should be flat are often aren't. Edges that should be sharp can be rounded. Some of the later Pythons often look like a bad bubba over buffed blue job. Of course those are just how they look to my eye. Look at a Model 19, 27 or 29 and the surface on the frame and side plate are dead flat. It is the difference between using a firm and hard buffing wheel (wood I suspect at Smith & Wesson) and a soft felt wheel.

Oh, and gosh darn, the cylinders on Pythons rotate the wrong direction.

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Bill Bates

Over the years I've owned four Pythons and umpteen M-27, 28, 586, 686, 19, 66 revolvers. The single most accurate .38/357 revolver that I have ever owned was a six inch Python. Firing from a rest, one particular lot of Rem. .38 Special ammo produced consistent 1 inch six shot groups. At one time I had a sheet w/ six bullseyes that I shot six shots each. Everyone at the range signed it. Wish I could find it.

The next most accurate revolver was any of the 585/686 revolvers ... all w/ six inch barrels, fired with good quality .38 Special ammo firing from a solid rest. Just not hard to keep these revolvers at or under 1.5 inches. If I were 23 years old, I think I could take my current 686 and fire from a rest to produce groups that would be very likely as good as I did that day with the Python. The other three Pythons shot 1.5 inches or so at the same distance.

I've had better results from the L-frame revolvers than the N-frame revolvers. It must have something to do with the lugged barrel. I have a 625-2 in .45 ACP that has a lugged barrel. It is the single most accurate N-frame revolver I've ever fired. It is simply outstanding in every respect.

The new Pythons have certainly gotten my attention. However, if by some trading/etc., I were able to come up with one, I would not expect it be more accurate than the 686 that I already own. I think the DA and SA of the 686 would be superior. JMHO. Sincerely. bruce.

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<><

One thing with the new Python........ALL the "innards" are different from the old one. Possibly making it a better gun.

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S&W Accumulator

Well folks,everybody's anecdote is valid and insightful because it reflects the variables of "individual differences".
My anecdote is as follows. I bought my Python new from the factory ( not custom shop) in 1983. Price was around $550 for this blue 6 incher. This was my first revolver.
Although I was not versed on the S&W revolvers , I had compatible thoughts about the Dan Wesson revolver pack. More bang for the buck rather than shooter expertise consideration.
One point. The Python is built on the medium I frame and the S&W L frame seems to be dimensionally similar as opposed to the K and N frames.
In 1983 the 586 retailed for $270.
I have physically compared both Python and Smith K frame target stocks and they appear dimensionally similar with the Smith's having a longer flared butt end.
About one year ago I was lucky to buy a like new in box 1984 no dash 586, 6 inch w partridge front sight.
I do not shoot competition and only shoot revolvers single action free standing. 12 and 25 yards outdoors.
I shot for recreation..
Since new the Python has had about 2000 rounds of 158 g S&W Nyclad put through it compared to freshly about 500 rounds of factory 158g .38 so for the 586. The Python single action comes in an average of six electronic measurements to 1 lb 15 oz. The 586 under same conditions comes in at 3 lb 8.8 oz. The blue finish of the Colt is at least a step and a half superior to the 586. The 586 btw has a very nice blue finish. Accuracy comparisons at 12 yards free hand gave the edge to the Colt. Includes precision. But that of course is an anecdotal sampling.
So the point is to share these two comparable frame size revolvers that are unaltered as they came from factory. The side plates never removed.
Now my 66_1 is a smaller K frame and I bought it well used. The five pull single action is at 2lb 5 oz. My very well used prewar Colt OMT,medium frame, 6 pull average is 3lb 12 oz. These latter two dissimilar revolvers have no records of what if any action work received other than being well used shooters.
I personally concur based on reading that the Smith action of the 586 is probably more robust for severe double action usage. Another variable is ammo.
I never shoot .357 mag. Only factory 158g .38
All manufacturers during all periods of production turn out 'lemons' for one reason or another.
In 1984 was the Python worth the extra average $200? Generally,I would opine yes on extra workmanship merits.
I paid $850 last year for the 586.
Which is better? Irrelevant to me personally because I appreciate the privilege of owning and enjoying both.
BTW at 12 yards I can split a playing card by one or two fewer shots with the Python compared to the 586 on average.

I have a number of S&W revolvers in various flavors, and two Pythons. I like them both for different reasons.

The fit and finish on the Pythons is terrific, and the Royal Blue color is beautiful...but it's that buttery-smooth action that really gets me...it's so easy to shoot well, and it's very accurate.

Having said that, I am amazed at what Pythons are selling for these days...I really can't see them being worth the money they're bringing...JMO...

I do own both but can't decide which I like best

I’ll stick with my 686 Stocking Dealers Special. If I didn’t have that it would be a 686 Silhouette with the adjustable front sight.

Saved me a lot of typing,

Colt use to have a number of official Service Centers scattered around the country with specially trained local gunsmiths... was one here in the Burg for decades....Pittsburgh Handgun Headquarters...... the gunsmith passed late 1990s IIRC ......the shop closed a few years later.

Give me S&W's double action any day of the week!! I don't shoot bullseye (single action) .....last time I shot single action was deer hunting in the 80s for the first shot.........

Python Vs. Your Favorite S&W

The title, coupled with the fact that this is the S&W Forum, is obviously expecting answers to be going in one direction. I have owned and handled more Colts and S&W revolvers than most people and found more serious flaws in S&W revolvers, especially from the 1980s and 1990s, than among Colt Pythons and Rugers, such as barrel being over torqued, timing, yoke fit etc.

When you look at higher level competitions of past years, the Colt Python and S&W 14 had both been present at the big matches. That counts more than how many S&W's or lnib Colt Pythons slumber in the back of somebody's safe, or the general consensus of a forum dedicated to one brand.

My Python that I bought pre-owned in 1985 has been shot a lot and did not go out of time and is as accurate as my S&W 14-2. The Python was gifted to my son, the 14-2 is being shot rarely since both do not compare to a 1969 Korth or Mulhouse MR73.

To make things even more disturbing to all blindfolded fan boys of Colt, S&W, and Korths alike ( and it had surprised me and shaken my beliefs ), I had recently imported a Taurus 83 that was import-marked by Hämmerli in Tiengen that can just be described as smooth. The only revolver of recent manufacture that I can compare to it in smoothness and fit is a 4 inch Chapuis Arms Manurhin MR73.

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FFL08

Back in the 60's I bought my first 357, a 6 inch Python. We shot it regularly...mostly plinking at random targets at all sorts of ranges. Our group's shooting was invariable slow fire, off hand. In 1968 I stumbled across a K-38 and started shooting it too. It became clear, after a while, that no matter the load, I was more accurate with the Smith. After a lot of thought I concluded that the hammer fall on the K-38 was quicker so it shot closer to where I was aiming when the trigger released. Owning other Pythons over the years did nothing to change that conclusion.

Ed

I met a new member of our local gun club last week, he was shooting several handguns, one of which was a “new” python.

He shot my pre-27 while I shot his python.

I’m not selling my pre-27 or my 27-2; but I am now looking for a new python.

nope....

I hate all snakes , except Pliskin

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For some reason I really dislike Hogue grips.

Have no interest in Pythons really. Not to say I would not snag one if it was really lowballed in price. The only Colt revolvers I have are a .357 3rd gen SAA and a .38 Officers Target. Not a fan of the Colt revolver DA trigger pull.

Early on I bought a Colt New Service 45 ACP. I disassembled it several times to study it. The little leaf springs and the interactions of the parts convinced me that S&W had the superior design. I will not deny that Colts had a great blue job and looked good. I am sure they can be very accurate. If I found one reasonable I might buy it just to have some variety, but would never sell any of my better S&Ws to get one. I have a hard time believing Pythons are worth the price tag at this point.

While I really like the aesthetics of a classic Python you just cannot beat a Model 19/66.

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Old Cop
LEO (Ret.)