Challenge The Legends! SW vs. Colt
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SnidelyWhiplash
Member
Really apples and oranges. The Python and 686 are closer in frame size than a 66 and Cobra…mid-frame and small frame respectively.
For pure performance little choose from. For concealability it’s the Cobra all the way but it’s strictly .38 Special where the others are .357 capable. But a .357 round is pretty much wasted in a snubby…too much blast and flash with little velocity gain.
When I was a LEO and at the time restricted to revolvers I owned a Colt Cobra and a Python snubby and a 66 snubby. I carried the Cobra off-duty far more often than anything else.
For pure performance little choose from. For concealability it’s the Cobra all the way but it’s strictly .38 Special where the others are .357 capable. But a .357 round is pretty much wasted in a snubby…too much blast and flash with little velocity gain.
When I was a LEO and at the time restricted to revolvers I owned a Colt Cobra and a Python snubby and a 66 snubby. I carried the Cobra off-duty far more often than anything else.
Nice and effective answer Snidely, thank you..
Yes, the question shall be separately asked either “686 or Phyton” or “66 or Cobra” in terms of their sizes and concealability. As an another form “66, 686 or Phyton” considering their fire power.
If you opt for one from your inventory (Phyton, Cobra and 66), which one would be the number-one while you would abandon others? The question is about your preferences with soul & heart
SnidelyWhiplash
Member
My heart tells me the Python. For pure practicality the Cobra…but the best compromise is the 66…magnum capable…accurate enough…almost as easy to carry as any.
Given the options, I'd go with the Cobra. I have two, a 2-inch and a 3-inch. Both make fine, practical carry guns.
I don't really consider myself to be qualified to answer this question. I was not old enough to own the mentioned revolvers in their heyday. I will give my opinion because I do own all of the above. I have Pythons in 2 1/2", 3", 4" x 2, and a 6". My snubs and one of the 4-inch guns are in very high condition and haven't been shot by me. The other 4" and 6" Pythons are high grade shooters that I have used numerous times. I have never owned any vintage Cobras, but I did buy a modern Cobra that I was impressed with. I also have few Detectives that are nice for carry or range work, but there is nothing remarkable enough about them. My preference in guns does go to Smith & Wesson for several reasons. One I have never felt a discernable difference in the actions of any of my Colts. I've heard many times over the years that Colts are supposed to be so much smoother. That just hasn't been my experience. The Pythons are very handsome with the vented rib and royal blue finish for sure. I would argue that a high condition pre 27 3 1/2" looks as good if not better. Now let's talk accuracy. Whatever the reason is. I just plain shoot my S&W revolvers with more consistency and accuracy. I have a 66-1 2 1/2, 66-2 3", 13-2 3", 19-3 2 1/2", 65-3 3", 686-3 2 1/2" to name some standouts, that all are more enjoyable than my Colts, and I shoot them better even with the shorter sight radius. Although these models are not mentioned above. I have a 19-2 4" and a 586-3 4" that have really smooth actions that result in my best accuracy hands down. One other worth mentioning is a 60-4 3'' since Cobras are in the conversation. That J-frame is a tack driver. The Colts just don't measure up. Smith & Wesson of old just had so many great models to choose from in many decades, when we are talking double action revolvers.
HOUSTON RICK
Member
S&W's you buy to shoot. Colts you buy to collect so that your wife can afford the pool boy after you pass on - even if she does not have a pool.
My choice would be either the Python or the model 66.
In a Highway Patrol roll, where it is often required to fire through a barrier like a car door or windshield, even only a few hundred FPS increase in velocity is welcome
And yes, I have had to shoot through a windshield in order to save life. I am very happy that I was not carrying 38 Special
In a Highway Patrol roll, where it is often required to fire through a barrier like a car door or windshield, even only a few hundred FPS increase in velocity is welcome
And yes, I have had to shoot through a windshield in order to save life. I am very happy that I was not carrying 38 Special
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They are ALL great guns!!! If you are talking vintage, the Smith's are probably a bit stronger and more robust. The vintage Smiths are mechanically better over the vintage Colts, IMHO. If more modern, (like the ones with the hole in them) I'd go for the Colts. The NEW crop of Colt revolvers are far superior to the new crop of S&W's - IMHO. Just being honest.
SnidelyWhiplash
Member
That 66 will serve you for the rest of your life and beyond. So will a Python. If you decide to go with a Python you will have no problem finding a new home for the 66.
If you decide to buy a Python...don't make your mind up about the 66 until you've used the Python...you might just decide you want both.
If you decide to buy a Python...don't make your mind up about the 66 until you've used the Python...you might just decide you want both.
My choice would be either the Python or the model 66.
In a Highway Patrol roll, where it is often required to fire through a barrier like a car door or windshield, even only a few hundred FPS increase in velocity is welcome
And yes, I have had to shoot through a windshield in order to save life. I am very happy that I was not carrying 38 Special
That's the reason NC State Highway Patrol used (used?) .357 Sig. Beretta 8357, Sig P229 and P226, and M&P .357 Sig for short time.
Colt Python is a very cool duty weapon.
jcs266
Member
I like both. The original Colt Python was the ROLLS ROYCE of revolvers that's for sure. I know for me the 686 has always been a huge favorite all my life. I carry a 3" 686-6 quite regularly and have a 4" that get's some holster time too.
The Colt Cobra? Yes another beauty. To me it's what you like or what you have all are great revolvers.
The Colt Cobra? Yes another beauty. To me it's what you like or what you have all are great revolvers.
SGT ROCK 11B
Member
Colt Detective Special a true snubnose revolver.
SnidelyWhiplash
Member
The Detective Special was the quintessential tv and movie cop and PI gun for many years.
hkcavalier
US Veteran
I like them all. There's little question that you get better value from older S&Ws than older Colts. Newer guns, can't really say. My newest S&W was made in 2016 and my newest Colt is one of the Pythons I bought in 2022.
You get a lot more variety with S&W too. Colt seems to stay close to .22, .38, .357, and .44 with the DA guns made since WWII. Sure, there have been some outliers like the .45 Colt Anacondas. It's why it's a huge deal when they announce anything different, and when S&W, Ruger, Taurus, etc do it barely makes the gun news.
You get a lot more variety with S&W too. Colt seems to stay close to .22, .38, .357, and .44 with the DA guns made since WWII. Sure, there have been some outliers like the .45 Colt Anacondas. It's why it's a huge deal when they announce anything different, and when S&W, Ruger, Taurus, etc do it barely makes the gun news.
Thanks for all invaluable info. I decided to hold my SW 66 as a personal heritage. Maybe i can own a new Phyton for fun.
Happy to be in this community with helpful buddies and with the people having same passion.. You are all great guys!
Happy to be in this community with helpful buddies and with the people having same passion.. You are all great guys!
.38SuperMan
Member
I have all three that you mention and really enjoy snub nose revolvers. The Python is my favorite overall but is the least concealable. I rate it at the top of concealment isn’t an issue and rank it tops on fit, finish, great out of the box trigger and fits my hands just right. I find the weight to be a plus too for recoil absorption.
I really like my 66-2 2.5” and feel it’s a great all around compromise in size and weight. It a touch smaller than the Python and has enough mass to absorb recoil well.
I have a new generation Cobra too and carry it if I’m wanting 6 shots in a concealable size gun. Typically I carry 38’s in my revolvers even if 357 so the size is a plus here. Fit and finish are excellent and the action is smooth like the Python. No complaints at all with my Cobra.
If you want a Cobra sized Colt in 357 look at the King Cobra. It’s essentially the same size as the Cobra but 357 plus it comes in a 2” & 3” versions. I own the 3” and wouldn’t trade it. The 3” barrel remains concealable plus gives added sight radius and more weight up front to help recoil.
Don’t overlook the Classic Detective Special and the Snub nose Smith M10. I have both and never would hesitate to carry either. Plus it’s fun shooting these old classics.
I really like my 66-2 2.5” and feel it’s a great all around compromise in size and weight. It a touch smaller than the Python and has enough mass to absorb recoil well.
I have a new generation Cobra too and carry it if I’m wanting 6 shots in a concealable size gun. Typically I carry 38’s in my revolvers even if 357 so the size is a plus here. Fit and finish are excellent and the action is smooth like the Python. No complaints at all with my Cobra.
If you want a Cobra sized Colt in 357 look at the King Cobra. It’s essentially the same size as the Cobra but 357 plus it comes in a 2” & 3” versions. I own the 3” and wouldn’t trade it. The 3” barrel remains concealable plus gives added sight radius and more weight up front to help recoil.
Don’t overlook the Classic Detective Special and the Snub nose Smith M10. I have both and never would hesitate to carry either. Plus it’s fun shooting these old classics.
Mine is my 64-2 2 inch bbl. This thread once again reminds me of desired revolvers that I have never owned. Two of my most desired revolvers would be a Smith & Wesson 66 pre-lock 2 1/2 inch bbl and a Python in 6 inch bbl. At the age of 79 I am yet to own either. I have had opportunities to own both at reasonable prices but just never pulled the trigger.
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