Interesting comparison between Pythons and a Model 19 Smith

[Model19man]

Compared: Vintage Python vs 2020 Python (warning: long and long-winded!) | 1911Forum

This is a good read. The S&W Model 19 (I think it is a Model 19-4 but it could be a 19-3) is towards the end when he is actually comparing the old Python to a new Python. And of course the S&W blows both away when it comes time to shoot. Probably about $400 cheaper than a new Python and maybe $1700 cheaper than the old one.

 

[Grayfox]

I don't own a 2020 Python, but I do have two older ones. A 1978 4" and a 1973 6". Both are outstanding guns.
However, the comparison with the S&W I believe varies with the guns tested. I understand that you're probably bias due to this being the S&W Forum and your screen name.
Some years ago I did a side by side comparison between a 6" S&W 19-4 and (not a Python) 6" Colt Trooper MK III. Both shot rested from the bench at 25 yards with both .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammo. It wasn't even close. The Trooper won hands down.
I also know that my Pythons will out shoot that Trooper.
Obviously in the posted story the S&W beat the Colts. My point is don't take that as an absolute. Every gun is different. The older S&Ws are fine guns, just don't assume that they'll always out shoot a Colt.
BTW: I have since sold the 19-4. I still own the Trooper.

 

[Rudi]

And how good can a shooter shoot them?

 

[schutz5]

Grayfox very wise!

 

[tops]

M19 out shooting an old model Python? Reminds me of a saying: "A blind hog can find an acorn once in awhile." Larry

 

[BLACKHAWKNJ]

I would compare a Python/Trooper to an S&W L-frame since that frame was designed to compete with the somewhat larger Colt frame.

 

[quikdraw67]

I would compare a Python/Trooper to an S&W L-frame since that frame was designed to compete with the somewhat larger Colt frame.

Beat me to it!

I'd say a 686 would be a better one to compare than a 19.

The Trooper will have a finer finish and fancier grips.

But the 686 will have a better trigger pull/action and I think has a better grip profile.

JMHO YMMV

 

[Model19man]

I think he compared to a Model 19 because his Python was made in a time when the Model 19 and Model 27 were the only comparable S&W products available. The model 586 / 686 etc did not come out until nearly ten years later when most folks were considering converting to an auto loader.

The Model 27 I think is more comparable to the Python.

 

[Rodan]

Pretty good write up. I have gone into the LGS at least twice with the intent to walk out with a new Python, and just can't do it. That QR code... the squared off trigger face. And it just doesn't have the 'X' factor of an original Python.

Besides, aside from the 19s and 27 I own, I already have the best of both worlds...

 

[PALADIN85020]

Whereas I have always found the S&W brand of revolvers as a group to be superior in every way up until the recent "get 'em out the door" era, I do treasure my one and only 1981 Python as near the pinnacle of perfection. The care evidenced in its construction and fitting is extraordinarily superb, and its action is buttery smooth. thanks to exceptional hand-honing. It's also real eye candy, and the accuracy is amazing.

I'm just giving credit where credit is due. In my opinion, the new Pythons do not measure up to the old standards.

John

 

[Grayfox]

I dearly love my older Pythons. I've been tempted by the 2020 versions, but just can't see spending the money. As good as the new ones are, they just ain't the real thing.

And as much as I love the Model 19, this 1973 Trooper MK III shot rings around my old 6" 19-4.

This may be the S&W Forum, but you can't deny that Colt makes good guns.

 

[Protocall_Design]

The main reason a Colt will shoot better groups with target ammo is the rifling twist. Pythons are 1 in 14, S&W is 1 in 18-3/4, essentially 1 in 19. The S&W twist is too slow to stabilize a slower target load.

That's why all the PPC revos had a custom barrel of 1 in 10 to 1 in 14. A few had 1 in 16. The 1 in 14 is the slowest twist that works well. Once you get over 900 FPS, the groups on a factory S&W barrel will start to tighten up. The faster you go, the tighter they get.

 

[WardenRoss]

Interesting video

[ame]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cbVl3cDMTY[/ame]

 

[tops]

I bought a Python new in 1965 and it went out the door with me every morning for 40 some years. I gave it to my son because I thought it would mean more to him if I gave it to him instead of him inheriting it.
I found a new in the box 27-2 and thought it would be ok for an old man. It's ok. A good gun and does everything I need it to do but it is not in the same class as the Python. Larry

 

[A10]

Of the older guns, IMO Python for the safe queen 19 for daily carry. If they were new guns, I'd take the Python over the new 19s regardless.

 

[PaulDoc]

I like them both.

 

[Swiftflyer]

I have never owned or even fired a Python of either era but do have other Smiths & Colts and My Trooper MK 111 is hands down the most accurate revolver I have ever owned.

 

[SnidelyWhiplash]

Every gun is different...every shooter is different. Even with a great shooter...changing the stocks can change how any particular gun shoots in his hands. The feel of the different actions matters...some prefer the Smith...some prefer the Colt action. We all have different preferences and abilities.

We can make generalities about the two makes...but either can likely shoot better than most of us can hold them.

 

[moonsterman]

Of the smiths Ive shot as well as colts in 357 and my hand loads , my GP100 our shoots them all. Not saying its a better gun and I am a very poor shot so maybe just me?

 

[Eddietruett]

This is the easiest way to solve the problem. Best of both worlds.
This gun will shoot wadcutters tighter than anything else I own except for my Model 52 and the DA is smoother than my 74 Python.