27-2 vs. Python for range duty

N frames

Steve here... I've got 2 N frames and two Pythons... the wheel guns only get light loaded cast boolits...
Love the Python thread on S&W forum!!!:)
This one tho...is unfired
Python_1975-1.jpg
 
I got the 3.5, and I know I will enjoy it. I am not, however, used to a blade rear sight on a revolver. It will be a bit of an adjustment. Looks like I will need to practice quite a bit. Darn.:D
 
I don't own a 27 yet but I do have, and very much enjoy, it's less glamorous brother, the Model 28 - Great gun! I do own some Colts, including an older Python and a .22 Diamondback, both in excellent shape and both purchased more as investments, and as you said, they've gotten "pricey" -I'd add ridiculously so. If I wanted a range gun, I'd go with the Smith, a 27 if you need the beauty factor, a 28 if you just want tough functional utility. No doubt the Colts are beautiful and have precision watch like actions, but I just don't think they're as strong as the Smith and Wessons.

Why are the Colts so pricey? I've really never understood. I saw a NIB 2.5 Python last night mfg. 1971. They had this thing priced at $1975.00, good deal from what I've been noticing. What did these guns sell for new? If anyone is interested in this gun just PM me and I'll hook you up, I wouldn't pay that much. I once bought a Mustang Plus II for $825 and chocked for a week. I still have the gun and prefer my 4516 over the Colt any day. Sorry for changing topics. Go with the model 27. One other thing, that Colt doesn't look any nicer than my 10-5 2".
 
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Colts are pricey because they go to the extra expense of engraving a horse on the side of them. And, alotta folks like the Colt mystique. The Colonel is a big hero to alot of us. Colt also put a lot of effort into the fit and finish, and the Pythons are one shiney piece of kit. That being said, I'll take the Smith any day.
 
You can look into the bluing on a vintage Python and see forever.
The triggers are different on Python than Smiths. It's just what you get use to.
Pythons are wonderful guns, but I just got use to S&W's and don't see the need to change this late in the game.
 
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I have a 6-inch Model 27-2 and a 6-inch Python and shoot both. Personally I think the Python is more durable than its internet reputation allows. Just keep it clean and lubricated and it will treat you right. I never shoot anything but full power .357 Magnum handloads in my Python. We'll see how long it'll last. Since I currently only shoot a few hundred rounds per year through it I suspect it will outlast me.

I am no fan of the Colt DA trigger in any of their models, Python included. In my view the Colt double action is horrible even though my Python has a nice double action (for a Colt). My Python is fine for single action shooting when great accuracy is desired. It is gratifying when used in this manner.

The fit and finish on the Python is truly nice, almost too nice in my view. It is so polished that it has a bit of a "melt" look about it. A pre-war Colt has a more attractive finish, especially the ones built in the first 10-15 years of the 20th century. The vent rib is superfluous, looking a bit like tail fins on late 50s cars but many like the feature. I could do without it. Don't care for the underlugged barrel, at least on the 6-inch models because I don't like the front heavy balance. I also don't care for the L-Frame Smith & Wessons for the same reason, too front heavy to suit.

The Models 27 and 28 are pretty bulletproof in my estimation. I've owned several and have had the current one for nearly 30 years now. It has seen some heavy handloads and a dab of silhouette competition in its time and has given perfect satisfaction. The Model 27 is the better looking revolver of the two. It is better balanced and it soaks up recoil from heavy loads well. The accuracy capabilities of my Model 27 is fully equal to my Python but this may reflect my shooting abilities.

I like both revolvers but the Models 27 and 28 represent the finest .357 Magnum revolvers in my view.

I can't imagine retiring either revolver in favor of shooting a Ruger GP 100. Life is just to short to have to endure that.
 
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I actually prefer the Python’s DA trigger pull to post war Smiths. The old long action DA trigger pull on pre war S&Ws is another favorite. I’ve always enjoyed staging the DA pull to just before the hammer drops – like a 2 stage trigger, Kind of a lazy man’s way of shooting single action without having to thumb the hammer back for every shot. Many frown on this technique, though I have no problems or hesitation when alternately using a steady DA follow thru as with a post war Smith.

For thumb cocked single action shooting, nothing bests a good S&W.
 
I'd like to have a Python. I've got a Model 28 S&W now that I haven't had the time to take to the range yet.

Then I'd like to have the time and the money to take both to the range and try to wear them out before I die.

Frankly I doubt I'd hurt either one of them.
 
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