In my distant past I did a fair amount of trigger work on both. The trigger on a Smith was sooo much easier to get really good. The lockwork of the Colt IMO is much more "fragile" than the S&W. I no longer work on either. I have a 29-2 I did a trigger jpb on many years ago(81) and while the trigger is still good someone bobbed the hammer and thinned the trigger. I have a new TT and a new TH that I can put in it...but have just said to heck with it. I have owned many Pythons and of course Smiths and of course a Smolt/Smithon. I still prefer the S&Ws though... And I have enough parts for Colts to build a few Pythons, Dbacks, Vipers, SAAs etc etc...if I had the frames. Gotta sell all that stuff someday., Yep Pythons are pretty...better?...Nah!!
Model 19 vs Python?
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Neversink n Klapperthal
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the Python is Mystical
From a fan of both
The Python was made to be the most accurate, highly polished,sexy, and hand fitted Target DA revolver , circa 1955.
Hence the superb single action trigger. There is stacking in DA
that feels different from Smith.It can be 'action jobbed' out for those who care.
The barrel was treated for accuracy ,"the silver ball".
It always was ,and still is ,expensive, and an aspirational item, like Rolex.
It's competition was the Model 27, not the 19.
My namesake 1968 6" Python is the most accurate of any handgun I own,of any type.
My shooter/carry grade 2.5" Pythons are as accurate as any other 4-5.5" barrel handgun I have.
It's heavier than the 19, and more pleasant with 357. A dream with 38Spl.
Fit and finish noticeably different than the 19, look at the trigger and hammer on Bright nickel units.
The 19 after all is a Service revolver, a value/price ratio design.
Old Colts and Smiths get along in the safe just fine.
The Python was made to be the most accurate, highly polished,sexy, and hand fitted Target DA revolver , circa 1955.
Hence the superb single action trigger. There is stacking in DA
that feels different from Smith.It can be 'action jobbed' out for those who care.
The barrel was treated for accuracy ,"the silver ball".
It always was ,and still is ,expensive, and an aspirational item, like Rolex.
It's competition was the Model 27, not the 19.
My namesake 1968 6" Python is the most accurate of any handgun I own,of any type.
My shooter/carry grade 2.5" Pythons are as accurate as any other 4-5.5" barrel handgun I have.
It's heavier than the 19, and more pleasant with 357. A dream with 38Spl.
Fit and finish noticeably different than the 19, look at the trigger and hammer on Bright nickel units.
The 19 after all is a Service revolver, a value/price ratio design.
Old Colts and Smiths get along in the safe just fine.
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Engine49guy
Member
As others have stated Colt's flagship Python is not a fair comparison to the Model 19 which was really intended to be a lightweight duty weapon.
Some say the Model 27 is the Python's peer but to be a fair you have to compare it to S&W's true .357 flagship... the Registered Magnum.
Both are no more accurate than other far less expensive guns either company has made, but when you buy into the game at this price the Rolex analogy really applies as just like with a Rolex (which in reality is far less accurate than a Seiko Spring drive) you are paying for the name and status applied by collectors willing to pay a premium for that name.
If you want to have a fair comparison to the Model 19 today you would have to offer the shooter their choice ...
You can either have one Colt Python, or three Combat Magnums in any combination of 2.5", 4" or 6" barrel lengths and finished in blue, nickel or SS.
Some say the Model 27 is the Python's peer but to be a fair you have to compare it to S&W's true .357 flagship... the Registered Magnum.
Both are no more accurate than other far less expensive guns either company has made, but when you buy into the game at this price the Rolex analogy really applies as just like with a Rolex (which in reality is far less accurate than a Seiko Spring drive) you are paying for the name and status applied by collectors willing to pay a premium for that name.
If you want to have a fair comparison to the Model 19 today you would have to offer the shooter their choice ...
You can either have one Colt Python, or three Combat Magnums in any combination of 2.5", 4" or 6" barrel lengths and finished in blue, nickel or SS.
Bill Bates
Member
The Colt Python is the Bennie Baby of the gun collecting world. Other than a few low production variations; Pythons aren't all that rare. I think since the 1970 a large majority of Pythons , like Colt and Winchester Commemoratives and Colt SAA, they were bought just as collectors. New in the box guns are easy to come by if you are willing to pony up the dough.
The Smith & Wesson Combat Magnum was never treated that way. Most were bought as working guns. Pre 19 and pinned and recessed Model 19s on any given day aren't all that easy to find. On some level a high condition early 19 is a rare gun but it doesn't have that oh I have to have one thing going for it like the Python.
One other thing about the Python that has always bothered me, this might make some mad but so be it, I never could get passed the polishing job done on the 1970 and later Pythons. Sure they are bright and shinny but there is hardly a flat surface to be found on them. They look like a bubba re-blue with waves and such. I'm sure it was just a matter of the soft buffing wheels used but it shows a certain lack of craftsmanship and care.
BTW 3rd Gen Colt SAA suffered also. Honestly it is like Colt thought nobody shoots these any more, heck they never even cock them, who cares if the timing is off brand new from the factory. Poor fit of a trigger guard and rounded frames whoops they will buy them anyway.
Of course that is just one old cranky guys opinion. I'll keep my 19s and let the suckers pay through the nose for the Pythons. Of course like Bennie Babies don't be surprised if someday the market bottom drops out for the Python.
The Smith & Wesson Combat Magnum was never treated that way. Most were bought as working guns. Pre 19 and pinned and recessed Model 19s on any given day aren't all that easy to find. On some level a high condition early 19 is a rare gun but it doesn't have that oh I have to have one thing going for it like the Python.
One other thing about the Python that has always bothered me, this might make some mad but so be it, I never could get passed the polishing job done on the 1970 and later Pythons. Sure they are bright and shinny but there is hardly a flat surface to be found on them. They look like a bubba re-blue with waves and such. I'm sure it was just a matter of the soft buffing wheels used but it shows a certain lack of craftsmanship and care.
BTW 3rd Gen Colt SAA suffered also. Honestly it is like Colt thought nobody shoots these any more, heck they never even cock them, who cares if the timing is off brand new from the factory. Poor fit of a trigger guard and rounded frames whoops they will buy them anyway.
Of course that is just one old cranky guys opinion. I'll keep my 19s and let the suckers pay through the nose for the Pythons. Of course like Bennie Babies don't be surprised if someday the market bottom drops out for the Python.
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I used to shoot NRA Bullseye as have probably several here. I've owned a Smith Model 19, circa 1978, and it shaved lead so badly I got rid of it right away. I shot a 6" Colt Woodsman MT, an Officer's Model Match both in .22 and .38(very accurate), a Colt Gold Cup and a Smith Model 41 (also very accurate). All nice guns and I still own them except for the 19. But the most accurate handgun I ever fired is a 6" Colt Python with Elliason target sights and when I shoot Winchester or Federal 148 grain Match wadcutter loads in it, that gun is spooky accurate. The finish is the deep royal blue everyone talks about. MOdel 19 equal to the Python? In my book, no way, nohow, not on its best day. Not even close. The 27 comes a lot closer.....
Model 19 vs Python? They are not even close too the same thing. How would you compare a Ferrari to push lawn mower. 
Larry
LarryJDBoardman
US Veteran
Ever paid to fix a Ferrari?
Call me crazy! I brought my first 19-4 at Texas Stadium in 1979. Take it out of the sock drawer every couple of months and wipe her down and admire her. She's so pretty that after 41 years I've never puller her trigger.
Neversink n Klapperthal
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you know,they talk about the Model 19 cracking in the forcing cone,but if you look at the Python`s,its the same size,if not smaller
You are crazy.
It doesn't matter what you do there is one thing that doesn't change. It cost a little more to go first class.
Larry
I agree with many above that the better .357 Magnum S&W/Colt comparison is between the Model 27 and the Python. I won't say which is better, but I believe they are both some of the finest revolvers ever to roll off their respective factory lines. The Model 27 and its predecessors/descendants are my FAVORITE handguns of all time. I love the barrel length options, the finish and there is something about the checkered top strap that just moves me in ways that no other gun can. Not a huge fan of the full underlug on the Python - but it sure looks cool...
Here are a couple of Mid-1970s 6"ers for comparison:
Model 27-2 on the top/Python on the bottom:
Maybe one of the reasons that I like the Python is because it took most of the King gun company Super Target special features and incorporated them as standard features. Here's a 1930's 6.5" Outdoorsman Super Target for comparison.
... and in conclusion, if you have to carry a .357 Magnum every day, all day long, it is hard to beat the Combat Magnum (Model 19, Model 66), as it is light (but heavy enough for .357 Magnum recoil), has a great trigger, and also is one of the nicest looking revolvers around. When I do carry, this well-used, ported 19-3 is the one that is generally strapped to my waist...
Here are a couple of Mid-1970s 6"ers for comparison:
Model 27-2 on the top/Python on the bottom:
Maybe one of the reasons that I like the Python is because it took most of the King gun company Super Target special features and incorporated them as standard features. Here's a 1930's 6.5" Outdoorsman Super Target for comparison.
... and in conclusion, if you have to carry a .357 Magnum every day, all day long, it is hard to beat the Combat Magnum (Model 19, Model 66), as it is light (but heavy enough for .357 Magnum recoil), has a great trigger, and also is one of the nicest looking revolvers around. When I do carry, this well-used, ported 19-3 is the one that is generally strapped to my waist...
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Benderx4
Member
Decades ago, I saw the writing on the wall, and today I have a safe filled with Pythons, Anacondas, HK P7s, and even Detective Specials. All of them have appreciated much better than my company 401K, or even gold bullion.
All the night stands of my house, and my entire family, however, are filled with SW no-lock revolvers. Each has their purpose.
All the night stands of my house, and my entire family, however, are filled with SW no-lock revolvers. Each has their purpose.
kreuzlover
Member
I had an 8" Python that I bought soon after getting into IHMSA silhouette shooting. I first fired it in a match at the old Goliad, Texas silhouette range. When I finally got to the rams, the rear sight elevation was already near the top range of the screw. With a belly hold, I was still shooting low. I finally connected on the fifth ram, with the good help of my spotter. There werent many .357 bullets that were heavy enough to knock over those 50 lb. rams, so I just rang it. Long story short, I had to hold nearly all the front sight up to even hit the rams at 200 meters! I tried it in a few other matches that year, but eventually sold it for something else. I'll give you an example of how tight they are built, tho. At CTSA range in New Braunfels, Texas, I shot the first five chickens, and loading for the second five, I could not shut the cylinder. I'm thinking "Oh, great!". I had to forfeit those five targets as I could not get the cylinder closed in time to shoot. I took the gun off line, and there were 3 or 4 crushed grains of 2400 powder between the crane and the frame. That little bit kept the cylinder from closing. I knocked them off with tip of a screw drive, and got back on line. I had always known they were built to close tolerances, but that proved it to me.
S&W-Keeper
Member
I have '27's, 19's, 66's, 586's 686's, 28's, 65's, 13's and even a couple of Ruger 6 series.There is nothing that shoots like my Pythons.
... the best of both the S&W and Python worlds... a Smython...
... this one happens to be built on a 28-2 frame, but many, or even most, that I have seen were built on a Model 19 frame...
I'm with ya on this one. One done on a Model 19 (sadly sold it), and my latest one on a Model 66:
Absalom
SWCA Member, Absent Comrade
I think the first theory can be safely buried. The Python was designed and marketed as Colt's premium revolver from the get-go and was considered a "Ferrari" back in the 1970s when I first got interested in guns, at a time when most of the Walking Dead weren't walking or dead, but hadn't been born yet
But the Python was still affordable enough that it was popular with law enforcement where allowed. Interesting piece of trivia: The four CHP troopers killed in the Newhall shooting in 1970 carried two Pythons, one Model 19-2, and one Colt OMM .38, all with 6" barrels and the three .357's loaded with 125gr. JHP .357 loads. Also showed that the best service revolver doesn't do any good if your training hasn't prepared you to hit anyone in a real-world scenario.
.38SuperMan
Member
I had to have the hand replaced on my wife's 317 and my 625-2. Both went badly out of time. Parts wear and parts fail no matter the maker.
I'm a big fan of Smith and own several and previously owned a 6" Python. No complaints with either and am currently considering adding another 4" Python.
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Ibmikey
Member
I was a career Law Enforcement officer in a populous area of California, i worked and shot Competition with the same model 19 4" until such a time as I could get a 6" 19 for competition only. Rarely in those competitive or service circles did one encounter a Colt and rarer yet was the Python. Through the years I gathered a number of SAA Colts but have never had a desire for a Python although I did have a 4" Diamondback until the second time the timing needed correcting...it went South then.
I prefer the early Trooper 357 to the Python and the Model 19. And I have both.
Get a 19, built like a Timex, takes a licking and keeps on ticking.
snowman.45
Member
My first duty gun was a 4" 28-2. I never thought that I was missing anything by choosing that fine revolver over a Python. Don't get me wrong; the Python is one pretty piece of engineering, but I never felt that a Colt trigger, even in a Python, was superior to most S&W revolvers I handled over time. I simply preferred the S&W trigger stroke to any of the Colt's. My choice, if I could have found one at the time, would have been a 3.5" 27-2. I still believe that was one of the finest revolvers ever made. Further, I never noted any consistently superior accuracy from a Python over a S&W.
austintexas
Member
I have a M-19 I bought in 1962, $90.00, almost a months pay for an Airman 2nd class. Still have it, still shoots great. Bought a 6 inch Python in the middle 80s. Try as hard as I might it just wasn't as accurate as my m-19. I ended up trading for a M-52 in the box, even up. Haven't regretted it yet.
SWCA 892
SWCA 892
Colts put the cylinder in wrong - it turns in the wrong direction.
Neversink n Klapperthal
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dont know if this was brought up,but the 19 has a rep for cracking the forcing cone. Whether true or not,the python has an even smaller one,but i`ve not heard of a pythons cracking. Maybe they do, any feedback?
I've heard of the Python cracking the forcing cone, but I can't cite a source for it, or anything about the circumstances. Just something I read somewhere.
On the other hand, I have seen a Model 15 (38 Special) with a cracked forcing cone, so who knows?
I've had both, bought new. The 19-2 was 4" Nickel TT/TH .It was my first Duty Pistol and I absolutely loved that gun.
At the time S&W had regional Service Centers and as I drove by one,decided to stop in.
The Gunsmith removed the Grips and side plate screws and slammed the frame down on his wooden table, removing the sideplate.... He removed everything and stoned the parts and than put a W/0 Rear sight blade in....When I asked how much ,He smiled and handed me a S&W keychain with a S&W logo on one side and a Revolver on the other. Good People.
Some years later, I sold it to pay off bills. Mistake. My former T.O.lent me his older Python....
Shortly after, I bought a brand new Python, Blue 4 inch.The trigger was heavy, this was about 1978, and I called Colt asking about it. I spoke to Tom Turner ,who was the Service manager at the time and he advised to send it in. When I got it back, the action was as smooth as butter and I carried it about 10 years, until we transitioned to semi-auto's. The Colt went in the Safe until one day when my Son wanted to shoot it. When I picked it up and opened the Cyclinder, I heard a snap and looked down to see the Bolt was broken.
I sent it back to Colt for repair and a re-blue and The Bill was around 300.... The action was heavy and gritty and the bluing was NOT the Colt Royal Blue....I called and was advised that they were all UAW workers and didn't have time to talk to customers, Mr. Turner was long gone . I sold it shortly thereafter.
Apparently actual Gunsmiths Competent to work on Colt actions are far and few between.... I've got a 1977 DS that's tight as a tick, no end shake, but it stays in the Safe as there's no one to send it to if it needs repair.
The 19 is a K frame, fine for .38s and Plus Ps , but not a steady diet of Magnums.... The L frame was and is capable of any .357 factory load.
The older S&W N frame, 27,28, could handle Super Vels all day long, but a bit on the heavy side.
I don't miss that Python , but I do miss my 19.
At the time S&W had regional Service Centers and as I drove by one,decided to stop in.
The Gunsmith removed the Grips and side plate screws and slammed the frame down on his wooden table, removing the sideplate.... He removed everything and stoned the parts and than put a W/0 Rear sight blade in....When I asked how much ,He smiled and handed me a S&W keychain with a S&W logo on one side and a Revolver on the other. Good People.
Some years later, I sold it to pay off bills. Mistake. My former T.O.lent me his older Python....
Shortly after, I bought a brand new Python, Blue 4 inch.The trigger was heavy, this was about 1978, and I called Colt asking about it. I spoke to Tom Turner ,who was the Service manager at the time and he advised to send it in. When I got it back, the action was as smooth as butter and I carried it about 10 years, until we transitioned to semi-auto's. The Colt went in the Safe until one day when my Son wanted to shoot it. When I picked it up and opened the Cyclinder, I heard a snap and looked down to see the Bolt was broken.
I sent it back to Colt for repair and a re-blue and The Bill was around 300.... The action was heavy and gritty and the bluing was NOT the Colt Royal Blue....I called and was advised that they were all UAW workers and didn't have time to talk to customers, Mr. Turner was long gone . I sold it shortly thereafter.
Apparently actual Gunsmiths Competent to work on Colt actions are far and few between.... I've got a 1977 DS that's tight as a tick, no end shake, but it stays in the Safe as there's no one to send it to if it needs repair.
The 19 is a K frame, fine for .38s and Plus Ps , but not a steady diet of Magnums.... The L frame was and is capable of any .357 factory load.
The older S&W N frame, 27,28, could handle Super Vels all day long, but a bit on the heavy side.
I don't miss that Python , but I do miss my 19.
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