Collectable Smith or Colt python.

[codyb65]

My father-in-law just shot my 686-6 yesterday and he wants now to purchase a revolver after having a plethora of semi pistols in his collection. Now, he wants a python because of they are more sot after for collecting. I personaly am a Smith thru and thru, and want him to be a Smith man as well. What model or style can I show him that would change his mind?

Keep in mind:
medium to large frame
6" barrel
357 or 44 mag
Does not have to be new...

Thanks you all

 

[P95loser]

Model 27 would be a good choice if he likes blued. Pinned and recessed, great fit and finish, and n frame. Keep in mind the python is a very well made handgun and the full underlug/vented rib is an attractive look that I don't think smith ever made. I would love to own one. Either way they don't make either of them any more (well Smith makes the classic but its not the same) and both are sure to continue to appreciate in value.

 

[ci11]

A 629-4 6.5" non-MIM, pre-lock Classic DX with its factory test target showing <1.5" groups at 50 yards - if accuracy impresses him...

 

[GM4spd]

Buy the Python---even though he will pay MORE,it will be
WORTH more then he paid for it later on. The S&W will
not appreciate anywhere near the same rate.Python looks
a heck of a lot better,also. Pete

 

[steamloco76]

The Colt Python, while a fine example of the firearms manufacturer's art at its highest degree, is seriously over valued. The average Python sells for over $1,200 and NIB examples can hit $1,600 or more. The Python is also slightly more likely to develop timing issues with use which wasn't a big deal when there were lots of good Colt gunsmiths. Today it is hard find to someone who truly understands the finer details of Colt's hand fitted lockwork.

I humbly recommend the large N frame S&W platform. The Model 27 .357 Magnum is S&W's flagship revolver. Its checkered topstrap and back sight are found on no other model. The 6 inch guns can be found in 95% plus condition for under $800, many times $650 or so and they have been steadily appreciating in value. The Model 29 in 44 Magnum is another fine choice, but the 27 makes a much better range/multi purpose gun due to the availability of inexpensive .38 Special ammunition.

Also consider finding an original S&W model 586, the blued counterpart to your 686. They were last manufactured in 1999 (reintroduced this year in the Classic line -not really the same as a vintage example). The 586 is the epitome of the .357 Magnum revolver. Beautifully finished, supremely accurate and designed for a lifetime of full power magnum ammo, the 586 is just coming into the collectible status it deserves. I have a 586-4 six inch and it is one fine revolver.

 

[mkk41]

Hmmm , .357 Mag revolver? Colt or Smith?

Why not both?

BTW, I would love to find a 586 in the condition shown above. Didn't they make some with 5in barrels?

 

[66Park]

My first handgun was a six inch Python. It was a fantastic gun. The direct competitor at the time from Smith and Wesson was the Model 27. I chose the Python because at the time I liked the looks better, and I liked the really smooth action that it had. Later, I bought some Smiths and found I preferred the more crisp action of the Smiths. I do think Pythons are fine guns, but the last one I encountered had an asking price of $2,200 for a blued six inch. I think that is way overpriced for what you actually get. There seems to be a feeding frenzy with Pythons right now. That won't necessarily last. I did read an interesting thread about the Python on the Colt forum. Many there, and keep in mind this is the Colt forum, were of the opinion that the Python was way overpriced for what it is, was not as accurate as they had hoped, and that the Model 27 was a more accurate, overall better gun.

 

[CWH44300]

I'm certainly not rich but I can buy any gun that I want, you couldn't give me a colt double action revolver, well maybe if I could use it for trading purposes

 

[youngda9]

He should get the colt since that's what HE wants. Smiths can be found anywhere.

 

[arjay]

I remember thinking high quality handguns were a little over priced 40 years ago,but I've never seen the prices go down.Bought a mint condition,4 inch,2nd generation python 5 years ago for $1000 and was sure I over paid,a few months later I passed on it's nickel twin anib for $950.I regret that miss.

 

[66Park]

I remember thinking high quality handguns were a little over priced 40 years ago,but I've never seen the prices go down.Bought a mint condition,4 inch,2nd generation python 5 years ago for $1000 and was sure I over paid,a few months later I passed on it's nickel twin anib for $950.I regret that miss.

Well, you may certainly be right. Pythons may continue to become more and more expensive. I sure regret trading mine in. I think I got $400 for it. That was almost thirty years ago, though. Still, the feeding frenzy on Pythons does remind me a bit of the stock market, and, as we all know, there are bubbles that burst.

 

[PA Guns & Ammo]

Whichever one he picks, he will be getting a fine revolver. The Colt is a bit beefier and will is worth more but if he is not looking for resale value, go with the Smith. Absolutely LOVE my 586 and my 629!

James

 

[silentflyer]

If it's accuracy he is after, don't overlook the 15-2 and 744's Dan Wesson's built in Monson Mass. or the new 715's built by CZA.

 

[gumpys]

Anyone that thinks the Colt python is going to keep climbing in value is nuts, those guns are beyond their peak price the last year or two and are way over hyped. You would be 100 tims better investing in a Smith and Wesson 27.

Eric

 

[nipster]

I too would recommend a 27-2

 

[Black Knight]

If he wants a Python find a friend who has one for him to try out. My first handgun is a 6" Colt Python. I also have a 4" Python. I used the 6" Python as my duty gun when I started doing private security. Later I switched to S&W (models 28-2 and 686-1). While I love my Pythons for serious use I would carry one of my S&Ws. Remember that the Python is no longer made and people who can really work on them are few and far between, and possibly expensive.

 

[steamloco76]

If it's accuracy he is after, don't overlook the 15-2 and 744's Dan Wesson's built in Monson Mass. or the new 715's built by CZA.

Yep. The Monson built 15-2 .357's are amoung the most accurate and durable .357's ever. I have a 1983-84 era 8 inch blued Monson Dan Wesson and it is a superb firearm in every respect. Best part, in PA nobody wants them, so I was able to get mine in nearly 98% condition with a scope and mounts for $380. Granted it was drilled and tapped for the mount, but on an 8 inch gun I don't find that to be a problem.

By the way, I owned a new 8 inch royal blue Python from 1989 to 1993. She had the soothest action I ever felt. At the range I always, and I mean always, did better with my 6 inch 27-2 and 6 inch 66-1. I don't have any of those guns anymore and the only one I truly regret selling is the 66-1 6 inch!

 

[steamloco76]

I lucked into that one at a huge gun store! It was wearing ugly factory rubber at the time and was a bit grubby. Some TLC and the 586 is one of the most beautiful guns in my safe. Shoots as good as it looks too. As for availability of the 5 inch barrel, I don't think S&W ever cataloged it, but it could have been available an exclusive distributor's run.

 

[STCM(SW)]

I have a 6" Python that was worked on by Austin Behlert.
He made it better then any Smith I have ever owned in both DA & SA.
An he was an expert on Smith's.
But he has been gone for some time now. Not many around like him for sure.

 

[feralmerril]

Leave him alone and let him buy what turns him on. Both companys made fine guns that will do the job. My dad told me once the world would be in trouble if we all wanted the same woman.