Colt old Python vs Python Elite vs current model?

[kip]

I owned an 80's Python which I shot alot. Regret selling it. Are the current model or Python elite as good as the old ones?

 

[03hemi]

No, they're better.
The fit is more precise due to CNC machining.
The metal is 30% stronger due to the advancements in metallurgy.
They eliminated a few parts that were deemed unnecessary.

 

[first-model]

I owned an 80's Python which I shot alot. Regret selling it. Are the current model or Python elite as good as the old ones?

Depends on what you mean by "as good."

Do the new Pythons get the same amount of hand fitting as the old school Pythons? No.

Do the new Pythons work well? Yes. I own both (a 1970 Python and a new Python with a 4" barrel), and I actually prefer the new one to the old one.

Are the old Pythons as easy to work on as the new ones? No. There are very few gunsmiths left that really know what they're doing with an old Python. The new Python benefits from a plentiful parts supply, and you can always send it back to Colt to make it right.

Do the new Pythons have the collectors appeal that the old ones do? No. The new ones are essentially mass-produced guns. Colt does a nice job of them, but the number of new Pythons will only keep going up for a while, while the number of old Pythons will only keep dropping.

So, if you're looking for a collector / investment grade gun, I'd look for an old Python. If you're looking for something to take out to the range and enjoy, then I'd look for a new Python.

Mike

 

[Lowa]

New pythons have inferior triggers because they are fitted cnc parts. Get a trigger job and it's a better gun that will last longer.

 

[stansdds]

Depends on what you mean by "as good."

Do the new Pythons get the same amount of hand fitting as the old school Pythons? No.

Do the new Pythons work well? Yes. I own both (a 1970 Python and a new Python with a 4" barrel), and I actually prefer the new one to the old one.

Are the old Pythons as easy to work on as the new ones? No. There are very few gunsmiths left that really know what they're doing with an old Python. The new Python benefits from a plentiful parts supply, and you can always send it back to Colt to make it right.

Do the new Pythons have the collectors appeal that the old ones do? No. The new ones are essentially mass-produced guns. Colt does a nice job of them, but the number of new Pythons will only keep going up for a while, while the number of old Pythons will only keep dropping.

So, if you're looking for a collector / investment grade gun, I'd look for an old Python. If you're looking for something to take out to the range and enjoy, then I'd look for a new Python.

Mike

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
This!


As for Python, vs Python Elite, vs new Python, the original Python was a factory produced revolver that received more attention to fitting, polishing, and final finish, but it was still a standard factory item. The Python Elite was produced in Colt's custom shop as special order and limited production runs from 1999 to 2005, but other than barrel markings, are the same as the older Pythons. The new Python features a different lock work which is much sturdier than the original and should withstand many thousands of rounds of full power 357 Magnum ammo.

 

[schutz5]

Python elite is a custom shop produced Python and also considered "vintage" now! Hey,if you can get your hands on one of those for a reasonable price,go for it! Same for earlier ones.
Sounds like you shot your previously owned one alot,so you know what to expect.
The new production model is not bad and you can score a 3 inch model!
So,yeah,it depends on what your need is for and how many other revolvers you have in rotation.