new Python 2.5" recoil

[rockquarry]

I've fired at least 200 rounds of handloaded .357 Magnum ammo through a new 2.5" stainless Python. This is a bulky and heavy revolver, but it's not uncomfortable to shoot with magnum ammo like all of the J-frame .357s I've had experience with. I can shoot a full box of magnum ammo with the Colt without feeling beaten.

Of course, being easier to handle helps the shooter to do much better. Worth considering if you're looking for a snubnose .357.

 

[CH4]

I have shot my new 2.5” Python and 1964 example extensively. I agree that their heft is effective in attenuating recoil, making them pleasant to shoot; I can’t say the same about 357 J frames.

 

[Yendor357]

My .357 load for the last few years is a 158 XTP a stout charge of H110 and a CCI Magnum primer.

My smallest Colt is the 3 inch. 50 rounds? No problem!

Way more accurate than you would think a 3 incher would be. I love my new Colts. I do wish the cylinder was longer so I could use my Lyman 173s.

 

[rockquarry]

My .357 load for the last few years is a 158 XTP a stout charge of H110 and a CCI Magnum primer.

My smallest Colt is the 3 inch. 50 rounds? No problem!

Way more accurate than you would think a 3 incher would be. I love my new Colts. I do wish the cylinder was longer so I could use my Lyman 173s.

I presume you're speaking of the #358429. I've used this one and the HP version #358439, but prefer the H&G #51 original .357 SWC at 160 grains. With the Lyman designs, either put a light roll crimp at max. length for your cylinder or crimp over the bullet shoulder. Both methods seem to work well and I don't recall accuracy suffering in any way. Of course with the #51, you can crimp in the crimp groove.

 

[6518John]

Since it is the S&W Forum.

A 2.5 inch Model 19 and a 2.5 inch 686 are about as sweet and you can get too!

 

[stansdds]

Heavier barrel, heavier cylinder, heavier frame, larger grip, so yeah, a Colt Python 2 1/2" is going to be easier on the hands than a J-frame. Try carrying that Python in your trouser pocket, that's where the beauty of the J-frame shines.

 

[rockquarry]

Heavier barrel, heavier cylinder, heavier frame, larger grip, so yeah, a Colt Python 2 1/2" is going to be easier on the hands than a J-frame. Try carrying that Python in your trouser pocket, that's where the beauty of the J-frame shines.

I like the J-frames, too - in .38 Special. Nothing better for concealed carry though some would disagree. I mentioned the Python only because some like to shoot and carry larger revolvers. I only shoot them, no longer carry.

 

[local_dirt]

Your premise was entirely wrong from opposite angles. You don't buy a 2.5" revolver for the purpose of shooting full house .357 loads on a regular basis. And, you shouldn't buy a steel .357 revolver and expect the weight of a j-frame. Just get a j-frame!

 

[rockquarry]

Your premise was entirely wrong from opposite angles. You don't buy a 2.5" revolver for the purpose of shooting full house .357 loads on a regular basis. And, you shouldn't buy a steel .357 revolver and expect the weight of a j-frame. Just get a j-frame!

Your interpretation of the the premise read a lot into the general comments I made, but no point in arguing.

 

[Mike SC Hunter]

My .357 load for the last few years is a 158 XTP a stout charge of H110 and a CCI Magnum primer.

My smallest Colt is the 3 inch. 50 rounds? No problem!

Way more accurate than you would think a 3 incher would be. I love my new Colts. I do wish the cylinder was longer so I could use my Lyman 173s.

Crimp on the edger of the front shoulder.....I do.......So they work in my Python and 27's.

 

[walter o]

I am confused .comparing a python to a J frame ? lets compare a model 27-1 to a agent ,or apples to grape fruit

 

[rockquarry]

I am confused .comparing a python to a J frame ? lets compare a model 27-1 to a agent ,or apples to grape fruit

Not a comparison as such; merely stating that if you want to shoot .357 in a snubnose, it's much more comfortable in the larger revolver. No secret here.

 

[boykinlp]

I've fired at least 200 rounds of handloaded .357 Magnum ammo through a new 2.5" stainless Python. This is a bulky and heavy revolver, but it's not uncomfortable to shoot with magnum ammo like all of the J-frame .357s I've had experience with. I can shoot a full box of magnum ammo with the Colt without feeling beaten.

Of course, being easier to handle helps the shooter to do much better. Worth considering if you're looking for a snubnose .357.

I am looking for one, but waiting for a 2 1/2” BLUED Colt Python to drop! I got a 3” Stainless already.
Larry

 

[cowboy4evr]

The length of the python cylinder will work with the 173 gr swc . I recently got acquainted with a forum member that trained Law Enforcement officer , police in Mexico city and Rurales in Guadalajara . They all , at that time used 4" Colt Pythons . They loaded the cast bullet in a 38 special case on top of 13.5 grs / 2400 . The Keith load . The mold they used was the MP mold that would hollow point the bullet . They also powder coated . He sent me pictures of training there . I had to have the MP mold and tried that combo in my Pythons . It's a winner for sure . I also tried 12.0 grs / 2400 to more or less duplicate the 38/44 load . Both shot extremely well . So yes , you can shoot the Keith swc in a python . Regards Paul

 

[Shark Bait]

So far, I have just the new blued 4 inch Python. I would be interested in a 3 inch blued Python if offered. Love my 3 inch 686-6+.

 

[stansdds]

So far, I have just the new blued 4 inch Python. I would be interested in a 3 inch blued Python if offered. Love my 3 inch 686-6+.

Very nice, but I still cannot wrap my head around the concept of a Colt Python with three slots in a 4 or 4.25" barrel.

 

[kaaskop49]

[Very nice, but I still cannot wrap my head around the concept of a Colt Python with three slots in a 4 or 4.25" barrel.[/QUOTE]

It's what consumer advocate John Stossel has called "the incredible shrinking package" for years: less product (the add'l metal cut out from the bbl rib) for the same, or more $. I still haven't recovered from Hebrew National going from 7 to 6 franks in the package.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

P.S. Just checked my 2020 version 4.25" Python: 2 cutouts in the bbl rib. Eat your heart out, America!