Saving up to buy either a 4 inch Colt Python or a 5 inch S&W Model 27. Neither needs to be pristine...I'm playing the back nine of my life, and no longer am in awe of the perfectly presentable. A little holster wear is fine. Just want a quality .357 for a companion in the woods and occasional winter concealed carry. Side by side where I hail from, the Colt is commanding a steeper price, about $200-$300 more than the Model 27. Opinions? Thanks.

I own both, and I'd say if you've never owned a Python, you should treat yourself.

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Go for the 27.

I have had both the Python has an unbelievable smooth lock work. But I stuck with the 27 its fits my hand better too much flare at the base of the Python grip and well tuned by a competent gunsmith it is as smooth and the action seems faster.

Len

duplicate post?

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Lost it all in a boat accident

My vote; : Model 27 .

Nothing against the Python ,,but the cylinder does turn the wrong way.


Good luck ,,Allen Frame

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The Smith gets my vote. If you are going to shoot it with zippy loads the N frame soaks up the recoil. Also it is the grand-daddy for the .357. I never understood the vent rib on the Python.

I say if you are looking at a Python I would just get a 686.It is aboout the same size as the python. If you are looking for something a little more bulky to help suck up some recoil...Get the 27...

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M.J.Hanna

I though you weren't to use four letter words on the forum . Go with the 27 or a stainless 686 - Drop the c*** Idea.

You are on target there. I have a 6" 686 that is every bit what the Python is. Actually I think it will stay in time longer than the Colt.

I have more Smith's than anything, but I also own Ruger's and Colt's. For daily carry and/or woods use, I'd probably stick with the 27. A 686 was the first centerfire revolver I ever bought, and one of my very favorite guns is a 586 L-comp. But comparing them to the Python is just not fair. Even my PC 586 is not as smooth as a Python.

The Smiths are GREAT guns, and by far my favorite, they don't make a bad one. But the Pythons are in another league. They are more comparable to the Performance Center guns than catalog items.

The telling statement I hear is "with an action job my "insert name here" is just as smooth as a Python." Yeah, but the Python comes that way to begin with. I had a guy that is basically a hunter as opposed to a shooter tell me how good his GP-100 action was. I first handed him a bone-stock Model 19 and he was impressed, then I handed him a bone-stock Python, and he was amazed.

Yep, they are a little more delicate and don't appreciate slamming the cylinder shut, and rapid firing and howitzer loads will cause them to go out of time quicker than a Smith. And they are pricey.

But a Python is a little like a Ferrari. You don't have to run it wide open to appreciate the engineering and artistry.

To end my long-winded ramble, I'd love to find a nice Model 27 myself, the N-frame just feels great to me. And if I happened upon both and had the cash in hand for only one, I'd go with the Model 27.

The Colt DA system just isn't the thing. 27 is the way to go here.

Every old timer should own a Python sometime in his life.

I'm still lookin'

I really appreciate the advice and insight.

I have both. A 5" 27, and a 4" python. To tell the truth I havent shot either in a few years. Both have become safe queens, but thats just because I shoot and carry other stuff. In the past, for me, I claim the colt is more accurate. I have two pythons, the other is a 2 1/2" nickel. It is very accurate too. I mostly carryed a 4" old trooper years ago when I was working and rue the day I sold it! To pack, I would go the less bulky python. On my 4" python, I find the front sight to be a tad too wide in relation to the rear sight blade. I might fix that. Cant see but a hair of light on each side the blade.

One of the most beautiful firearms ever created.

If I was gonna put it up on the mantle and look at it I might go colt, but if I am going to use it and shoot it, I'd go smith everyday.

I hate the shorter cylinder length of the colt, its a handicap to us who pour our bullets.

personally I'd prob go Lframe instead of N but I have hands on the small side of medium.

For pure use and functionality, on the n frame, don't over look a 28 smith.

The colt is a looker but I'd go smith 99.9 times out of a 100!!!

Just my 2 cents, probably worth just what you paid for it. 308

I bought a Colt Python back about 1985 because I was young and wanted a cool looking gun. The Python ended up in the back of my safe and I can't wait for an opportunity to give it to one of my sons.

It is a nice looking gun and it enjoys a huge following but for me the feel of the double action and the long hammer drop are not desirable.

But it sure looks nice, have a look at the picture of mine, enjoy it, feast your eyes on it and if you are a shooter, get the M27, if you are just a collector, it won't matter...

Edited for the notorious double post...

Python or 27 ?

I've got a 4" blued Python and 4", 5", 6" & 8 3/8" blued 27s...

Take a stab at it ...


Oh, because it's been brought up already, I've also got a pair of 686s, a 4" and a 6" and I'd still stick with S&W over Colt, BUT...

It is true though, everyone, at one time at least should own a Python...for the back of the safe (add multiple smiley faces here, not available for edit)...

Although the Python and 27 are great guns, and I would love to own either one of them, are they best choice for your purpose?

If you are looking for a "working" or "field" or "woods" gun maybe a 686 or GP100 is a better choice.

If doubling for concealed carry, maybe a 66.

Which ever you choose, I hope you enjoy it.

H.

Both are great handguns and you will not go wrong with either or both! If you decide to get the Python be sure it is in really good mechanical shape because it is difficult to find somebody who can work on them - or any Colt revolver. If I bought the Colt I would probably return it to the factory just to be sure it was up to spec. I don't know anybody I would trust to work on a Python outside the factory while the Model 29 can be repaired by a lot of good gunsmiths.

I never had the pleasure to shoot a Model 27 but yesterday I had a gunsmith let me put my paws on a 27 & 28...tell you the truth I would rather have the 28. But I have been real lucky over the past two years picking up used guns. All my pistols are snubbies and the first real deal I found was a blue 15-2. After picking that one up I wanted to find another one. Several weeks later at LGS I found not one bargain but two. Seems there was a guy that wanted an AR-15 so bad he went nuts and traded in a Model 66 and a Colt Python. My lovely wife was with me and she saw me light up like a Christmas tree and said get 'em both. So I did. Took them home cleaned up and went to the range...the 66 is the best but the Python is unbelieveable!!!! I like all brands and I have more Smith's than Colt's but the Python is special.

Well I have them both. Love my 3 1/2 inch 27 also have two Model 28's but looking back I should have gotten a Python earlier in my years but alas money becomes the question. Now I have three Python's one 6 inch barrel and a match set called Snake Eyes which someone shot the 2 1/2 bright SS one. I put a set of stag grips on it and I carry it on special occasions on the job. Two weeks ago I had the luck to pickup up three Colt Diamonbacks a 2 1/2inch a 4 incher new in the box and a 6 inch barrel as I was walking out of the shop I seen a 6 inch Diamondback in .22LR in the case. I put that on layaway. The Diamonbacks are down sized Pythons in .38 Special and the rarer .22LR. Fit and finish about the same as the Python. In the double action mode the Smiths win handsdown.

Every revolver man should own a Python. I have a six-inch and the action is super smooth. I traded a 4-inch many years ago and deeply regret it.

I have to admit that the DA action on my Python is the smoothest of any revolver I own.

For a gun that will be shot a lot, I'd get the 27.

I personally would get the Model 27 since I already have 3 Python revolvers. The Python is one of the best creations Colt made. I have a NIB 2.5" Blue, 4" Bright Stainless and a 4" Nickle that are 97-98%. I love those Pythons, but I wouldn't part with my S&W 66, 19, and 637! If I could only have 1 revolver to defend my life with, the Smith & Wesson 66 would get the nod.

Lots of good advice in this thread. My take on this is: I own a 27 and several 686s and if I could find a good Python for reasonable dollars, I would buy it. But in this part of the country a decent Python will set you back atleast a grand. You can still buy a decent 27 and most of a 686,also, for that amount. My first good pistol was a Diamondback. Can't find one of them for less than about 850.00 in this neck of the woods.. If you find a Python it will be a better gun if it was built in the 60s or 70s (most of us agree that the same can be said of Smiths, I guess) as opposed to the later units, which are not as nice, INHO. GB

I've owned both but the Python gets my vote. If you've never owned a Colt you're in for a treat. You'll never find a smoother trigger on any S&W and once you see the double lockup of the Python you'll know why it's accurate.

I look at my Pythons, but I shoot my M27.

Omg

There are just some things in life that you just have to experience for yourself. You will never be satisfied until you do. Having a Python is one of those. If you have a friend that will let you shoot his-then that may work. If not you will have to buy one. I had a four and six inch some years ago. The six inch Python may be the most beautiful pistol ever made by man. I grew up shooting Smiths. And as great as the Colts looked they never "felt right"-know what I mean. I will not knock a Python but the 27 is a thing of joy.

I agree with you completely.

The 6" Stainless Python was my 18th birthday present from my Dad back in 1982. I've put about 600-700 rounds through it since then, most of them when I first got it. I very rarely shoot it anymore, only on sunny Sundays. While it is a pleasure to shoot, I'd really rather shoot my 6" 19-4. IMHO, it shoots just as nice as my Python. The triggers are very similar and the 19 just feels "right" to me.

The 6" Blue Python was made in 1958 and I just bought it last week. It was put on consignment at my local gun range. One of the guys that works there called me to see if I would be interested in it (I get a call when older Smiths and Colts come in ). I wasn't really looking for another 6" Python, but this gun was just too clean and the was too right not to bring it home. I also have two sons, so my other way of justifying the purchase was now they'd both be getting one some day. I haven't shot it, and I probably won't. It's too nice.

I really do enjoy shooting my Smiths and admiring the Pythons.

If you've never shot a model 27, you've never shot a real wheel gun!

I mentioned this in one thread a short time ago. I had a friend who completed the armorer's school from S&W. He was a heck of pistol smith when he took his time. He had a Colt and a 27. I asked him his preference. He was a full time deputy and target shooter.

He said when target shooting he like the Python; when he carried on duty, he wanted the Smith.

I have owned both; shot both. The snake is a thing of beauty as is the 27. If I could only own one, my money would be in the 27. Bob Hughes

I have always lusted after a a 6 inch Colt Pyhton but I just could never pull the trigger to do the deal mostly because of the extremely high cost. Yet, I own 7 S&W 27-2 's in different barrel lengths and finishes so I guess I made my decision by default with no regrets.

The 27-2 is a thing of beauty and my favorite turns out to be the 3.5 inch barrel length.

next favorite is the 4 inch

I like both S&W and Colt, but don't own a M27. I do own an extra 6" barrel for a Python, anybody have a use for it?

How much do you want for the barrel? what shape is it in? What is the finish/what does the front sight look like.
Thank You,
SM1357

Shortly after getting into Smiths, I decided that I wanted a M27.
I ran across a great deal on a nickel 5" 27-2.

Beautiful looking and shooting pistol.
The python never fit my hand right... and the cyl release never felt natural.
I realized that I was a big bore fan... and sold the 27 to someone who would get the enjoyment out of it that it deserved... or keep it clean and pretty.

I would go with the 27 if you are a .357 fan.


Jim

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Big bullets leave big holes

I have owned both , presently I have 27's in 3 1/2, 5 and 6 inch. My Python was a nickle 6 inch. As many have noted both are fine revolvers. I would be proud to own another Colt, but in my humble opinion the 27's are more suited for shooting, especially since you have indicated your intended purpose.

In a pinch, for defensive purposes you will more than likely be shooting double action. A Colt cannot compare to a 27 (or any other S&W, for that matter) without tuning.

Then there's the cost factor, as you noted. I do not believe there is enough difference in quality to justify the added expense. To me the Colt Python is no better, in any way, than the model 27.

I cast my vote for the Model 27.

I will agree with those who say the Python is a great looking revolver and I have seen a few with stunning blue jobs. I can say the same about the 27.

I own both and the Python is in another class, not to say the 27 is not an excellent pistol. The Python has a squeeze bore that starts out larger in internal diammeter and then get smaller towards the muzzle, it also is burnished and thereby hardened by pushing a ball bearing down the barrel. The Python is the only pistol that when the trigger is pulled a hand locks up the cylinder so there is absolutely zero movement. I have never seen a 27,66, 686 that was as accurate as a Python. Then there is just the balance and beauty of the gun. If you are someone who really takes pride in ownership get the Python, if you do not apreciate balance, beauty and a fine piece of machinery get the 27.
Really if you were to shoot both that would answer the question. I think Python prices are starting to climb and are more likely to be a collector.

The guy that introduced me to shooting way back when is a big colt collector. It was years before I tried out a s&w...
While I love looking at that royal blue and the python lore. I prefer the trigger and feel on my smiths. If the python was superior in every category, why would people go to the trouble to make smolts?

I agree with the direction most folks are leaning in this thread, thoward the S&W, but it is really an unfair comparison. To have an apples to apples comparison, you would have to relate the Python to a S&W L frame, maybe the 586. In that case I beileve some additional folks would lean toward the Python.

That's got to be the biggest pile of hogslop I've heard since the last time BO opened his mouth.

Just buy the first good one of either brand that is reasonable and calls you. As said I have both and love em. Neither one over the other will change your lifes destiney. I cant add any more to what was said about both. I will say that I belive if you sandbag or use a ransom rest I belive the python will win. Also popular cocensus says the smith will stay in time longer and a good gunsmith for the colt is harder to find. Most people wont shoot enough to worry about that factor though. I do tend to baby or use less my pythons and carry my workhorse smiths out of protective love I guess. Many years ago I favored the .357 colt trooper as a work gun above all else, AND I owned all else or had them available at work! The trooper had the same guts as the python, less cheaper polish and was lighter because sans rib.
I do agree the smith with service grips fits my hand better, but the cheap rubber colt/packmyer grips are far better feeling than the standard wood ones. I have both for it.

Lot's of good advice has been posted here, already.

I'm both a Colt and S&W owner, and if you can lay Your hands on either of the DA revolvers mentioned, You'll be in good company.

I'd have to give the edge to the Python as far as collector value, and precision action. The S&W model 27 will be a bit more controllable under full recoil.

Go for it, and buy both!

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It is....what it is!

SWID - I am willing to bet you do not own nor have owned a Python. Right?
I do stand corrected that one certainly can have pride of ownership in the 27, it is a beautiful gun just the Python has it beat in all areas except very long term durability. The 27 has a frame made for the 44mag so no surprise here. The only one who should and does work on Pythons is the factory.

I have neither.

I've got three N-frames (more to come I'm sure): a 57 was my first, a 25 followed, lastly a 24. I would love to have a 27, or 28, but none have come along so far. Five K-frames in various calibers, but they don't count in this discourse.

I have two Colts: a .357 Grizzly, and a 4" Anaconda. I do love them both, but they do not get shot very often because their value just keep going up, and up.

Between getting a Python or a 27, I'm sorry, but I would never turn down a Python if I had the opportunity to get one. I know I wouldn't shoot it very much at all, but I think the Python with the Royal Blue finish is the most beautiful handgun ever made. For a combat gun I would rather have the 27, but a Python is a work of art.

S&Ws work great. Colts just look better doing it!

Hi Skeete, don’t bet too much, as Python # V38793 has been living in my safe for about 20 or so years. I bought it from the original owner’s widow. As far as I know it has never been shot (it appears that way) although I would think it has since he probably did. Because of this discussion I now know what that yellowish-green label on the end of the box is for. Thanks folks.

(I’d post a picture on here if I knew how.)

Now as to the desirability of the gun vs. a Smith. This Python is a six inch, and it is way too muzzle heavy for my taste. I have N frame .357s in four, five and six inches. All feel better in my hand. A long time ago some friends and I played a game where we shot at tin cans and the idea was to hit it every time with all six shots. A buddy with a Python I don’t think ever made it to six shots, and I with my 28 (which cost less than half) did. Now was that the guns or the shooters, probably the latter, but my point would be that any accuracy advantage the Colt may have had was negligible. His was the only Python I ever shot and I thought it was muzzle heavy then and I still do and I did not care for the trigger pull in either single or double action. Sort of felt mushy to me as I recall.

A Python may be more accurate from a Ransom rest, but that’s not how I shoot.

The N frame was developed for the .44 special, not magnum.

The term that somebody here used to describe a Python is “over styled,” and I agree. If you like that vent rib then go for it, but maybe you could do it without denigrating the tastes of those of us that don’t care for it.

As to your “fit and finish” statement, as I said, hogwash. I have a 29 I could use (as a mirror) to shave; I have several Smiths that have almost invisible side plate seams. I just don’t know how you could have a better single action trigger pull than a Smith does. Have you ever shot a single action 14? Not to say that some Smiths never came out of the factory looking less than stellar, especially in the late seventies, but that’s not the norm and I own none.

A lot of this is subjective, but I like what I like and it’s perfectly OK with me if others care more for something else, it’s part of what makes life interesting.

As a shooter, I prefer a 4" 586 that has been 'tuned' for competitive shooting. Not that it has any edge over the Python, but it feels a bit heavier. Many of the internal parts of the Python are hand-fit, and do require a Python specialist; if a part breaks, you may not be able to just drop a replacement in. There are not many Python experts, but there are some besides the Colt factory. Frank Glenn of Accuracy Unlimited is a master pistolsmith, and Python expert. A master trigger job by Mr. Glenn on either Python or Smith are amazing.....I know.
Mr. O

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