Comparable S&W frame to a Colt Python Stainless 2020 .357

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Glenn54

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I live way out in the sticks and don't get to town very often or I'd go put a Colt Python in my hand. Can someone tell me what size S&W frame compares to the Colt Python Stainless 2020 .357? Thanks.
 
1911haulic said:
My S&W 686 is very much like my 2020 Python.
Click to expand...

Great. I also have a 686 so that helps a lot. Do you like one revolver over the other?
 
Yes…the S&W L-frame is the closest match to the Python frame. The speedloaders…while not identical…will work in either.

Which one is preferable comes down to personal likes.
 
Last edited:
The Python and L frame are close enough in size as to use the same holsters.
 
Glenn54 said:
Great. I also have a 686 so that helps a lot. Do you like one revolver over the other?
Click to expand...

40+ years ago I had a two 686s, a 681 and a Python.

I currently have a 686 Plus that was 2018 production and it has been dependable. Recently I got a Kimber two inch snubby that has been fantastic. Now I would like a three inch 357 Kimber for a truly modern revolver.
 
Glenn54 said:
Great. I also have a 686 so that helps a lot. Do you like one revolver over the other?
Click to expand...


I like them both, most of my time is devoted to the 1911 platform.
 
The most fun, accurate S&W revolver I own. 686 w/6" barrel. I've handled a few Pythons at LGS and prefer the balance and action of the 686. Pythons do have a very nice S/S finish.

cRaQz7ll.jpg
 
Here's a 1972 Python next to a a 1982 586. They are comparable in size.
 

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2020 Python and 2006, 686-6. Brothers from different mothers.

image_50398977.JPG


I think I like the Python a little better, but it's close. REAL close. I think it really comes down to which I last shot.
 
Glenn54 said:
........Do you like one revolver over the other?
Click to expand...

Never owned a python, but I did own a king cobra for a few years. Never could get used to the cylinder release halving to be moved to the rear on the colt, vs pushed forward on the smith. Forward just feels more intuitive to me. I traded it for a 686 and couldn’t be happier!

Lou
 
Glenn54 said:
I live way out in the sticks and don't get to town very often or I'd go put a Colt Python in my hand. Can someone tell me what size S&W frame compares to the Colt Python Stainless 2020 .357? Thanks.
Click to expand...

L Frame.....
 
Definitely prefer the 686 to the Python. Every new Python I have seen has a terrible SA trigger pull. I haven’t seen any S&W’s with that problem.

Dan
 
SnidelyWhiplash said:
Yes…the S&W L-frame is the closest match to the Python frame. The speedloaders…while not identical…will work in either.

Which one is preferable comes down to personal likes.
Click to expand...
IIRC, Safariland speedloaders for the Colt E & I frames will work in the L frame. The reverse will NOT work. i would assume that HKS will work in both, but I have not tried them.
 
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