The old and the new.

[J-Rat]

I bought the python in 1980. Cost $422.95. I really like the gun, But I wanted a gun that I could wear in a holster and not ruin the finish.
I picked up the 686 last week and took it out shooting on Monday. I'm really glad I bought the smith. It shoots real good and it's just what I was looking for.
I might put some rosewood grips on it.
Thanks for looking.
J-Rat

[03clyde]

I like both!! I have a 681 - similar to your 686 but w/fixed sights. Amazing appreciation on the Colt from your purchase price until today's numbers.

[Ashlander]

The 686 is a great gun. Check both the Hogue and the Ahrends grips. They make some fine ones.

[chief38]

In 1983 I walked into a LGS to buy a 6" Python. When I looked at it and saw the sticker price of $467.00 I balked like a school girl! The Shop owner (Louie Greenblatt for you old NYers) didn't want me walking out empty handed so he quickly pulled out a beautiful Blued Smith M586 6" and told me the price was almost $200 bucks less.

Now while the Python is one of the best looking Revolvers ever made I truly truly still feel that the Smith is a much better, stronger and more ergonomic gun. I have shot mine so many times I can state without question it has had at least 15,000 - 20,000 rounds through it with not one hic-cup. I doubt I could say the same had I bought and shot the Python like that.

Now don't get me wrong - I still have a hankering for a Python (never did get one) but IMHO the Smith M586 blows the Python away in every aspect except sexiness.

[HarrishMasher]

Originally Posted by chief38

In 1983 I walked into a LGS to buy a 6" Python. When I looked at it and saw the sticker price of $467.00 I balked like a school girl! The Shop owner (Louie Greenblatt for you old NYers) didn't want me walking out empty handed so he quickly pulled out a beautiful Blued Smith M586 6" and told me the price was almost $200 bucks less.

Now while the Python is one of the best looking Revolvers ever made I truly truly still feel that the Smith is a much better, stronger and more ergonomic gun. I have shot mine so many times I can state without question it has had at least 15,000 - 20,000 rounds through it with not one hic-cup. I doubt I could say the same had I bought and shot the Python like that.

Now don't get me wrong - I still have a hankering for a Python (never did get one) but IMHO the Smith M586 blows the Python away in every aspect except sexiness.

The Python blows it away in one more respect, PRICE!