Not sorry about my Python...
- Thread starter lhump1961
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loeman
Member
I've found this thread to be very interesting. I'd like to offer an opinion from a slightly different COLLECTING (not shooting) perspective.
I don't think anyone in their right mind would knock the aesthetics of the Python and Diamondback. They are marvels of American design and deserve the recognition they get. I've never owned a Python but I do have a beautiful Diamondback along with numerous other Colt products and all of them are highly valued members of my collection.
That being said, I personally would not purchase a top condition Python at the current market values with the hope that it will continue to rise in value and be a good return on my investment. It might be, but I'm not so sure. I have been a collector of numerous things other than guns for all my life and too many times I've seen items rise to astronomical heights only to fall and sometimes precipitously in value. One of the main reasons for these fluctuations is an aging population. Right now, IMO, Pythons are being grabbed up by those folks who have matured and have the financial resources and/or expendable income to buy them without much pain. They couldn't afford them then, but now they can. Thirty years ago I wanted an HK P7 but I couldn't afford it. I have one now!
In the not too distant future as the population ages and at the same time Colt, as a handgun maker for the general population becomes a company with less name/brand recognition for the newer more recent mature and financially well-off collector, a change in the current trend is likely to happen. The newer generation of gun collector will have their own pet wants and desires from a time when they could not afford to buy what they really wanted. The prices of these "new" classics will probably shock us.
Yes, the Pythons and Diamondbacks will always be desirable and collectible. There is NO DOUBT ABOUT IT! But my point is, there won't be quite as many folks around who grew up wanting one.
That's why I feel that S&W classics are a better bang for the buck (sorry I couldn't help that). The company is still viable and strong as an American company with great brand name recognition in the eyes of the gun purchasing public. And that 21 year old today who desperately wants a S&W (you name the model) but can't afford it now will certainly be adding one to his collection 20 years from now. And that same collector will probably be knowledgeable and desirous of those earlier classic S&W models from an earlier time.
I don't think anyone in their right mind would knock the aesthetics of the Python and Diamondback. They are marvels of American design and deserve the recognition they get. I've never owned a Python but I do have a beautiful Diamondback along with numerous other Colt products and all of them are highly valued members of my collection.
That being said, I personally would not purchase a top condition Python at the current market values with the hope that it will continue to rise in value and be a good return on my investment. It might be, but I'm not so sure. I have been a collector of numerous things other than guns for all my life and too many times I've seen items rise to astronomical heights only to fall and sometimes precipitously in value. One of the main reasons for these fluctuations is an aging population. Right now, IMO, Pythons are being grabbed up by those folks who have matured and have the financial resources and/or expendable income to buy them without much pain. They couldn't afford them then, but now they can. Thirty years ago I wanted an HK P7 but I couldn't afford it. I have one now!
In the not too distant future as the population ages and at the same time Colt, as a handgun maker for the general population becomes a company with less name/brand recognition for the newer more recent mature and financially well-off collector, a change in the current trend is likely to happen. The newer generation of gun collector will have their own pet wants and desires from a time when they could not afford to buy what they really wanted. The prices of these "new" classics will probably shock us.
Yes, the Pythons and Diamondbacks will always be desirable and collectible. There is NO DOUBT ABOUT IT! But my point is, there won't be quite as many folks around who grew up wanting one.
That's why I feel that S&W classics are a better bang for the buck (sorry I couldn't help that). The company is still viable and strong as an American company with great brand name recognition in the eyes of the gun purchasing public. And that 21 year old today who desperately wants a S&W (you name the model) but can't afford it now will certainly be adding one to his collection 20 years from now. And that same collector will probably be knowledgeable and desirous of those earlier classic S&W models from an earlier time.
mickeyblueyes
Member
To me the Colt Snake line is like the Corvettes of the 60s , great to look at fast and then affordable now thru the roof. I would gladly like to have any Colt just never going to happen.
OP
lhump1961
US Veteran
Well said loeman. Perhaps I didn't make myself clear in my original post. My point is that I have only sold two guns in my life and vowed never to sell another due to sellers remorse. The Python I had was a drop dead gorgeous 6" with the best blue I have ever seen on a gun without a mark on it LNIB. I have often regretted letting it go for that reason.
This was more a post on getting past sellers remorse and being happy with what I've got. Most of us have sold stuff we wish we had back. I'm finally completely at peace about a gun I sold...that was the connection I was trying to make.
This was more a post on getting past sellers remorse and being happy with what I've got. Most of us have sold stuff we wish we had back. I'm finally completely at peace about a gun I sold...that was the connection I was trying to make.
Yeah, what "loeman" said!
Loeman's thoughts are interesting and plausible. But I have yet to see the Colt SAA drop on value, and the people who grew up with them have been gone a while. There's never a guarantee that the market won't lose interest in them, of course, and no way to tell whether they'll continue to appreciate, but I'll be surprised if they don't hold value. If Colt ever starts making them again, and somehow equals the quality of the old ones, then maybe. But they're not making any more currently, and Smith is still making 586/686's. If Smith stopped production, in about 20-30 years they'd probably skyrocket too.
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71firebird400
Member
Actually, I am quite confident I did read the post. The poster can say he is not bashing, but that does not make it so.
lhump1961 said:
lhump1961 said:
lhump1961 said:
I really can't explain it, but this forum has a love affair with discrediting and diminishing the Pythons. I'm sure it has a lot to do with the prices they bring in the modern market, and the jealousy it creates. I have a trigger gauge and cannot fathom where the idea that the Python has a heavier double action than a typical S&W does comes from. Stacking, yes of course, but heavier? My trigger gauge must be lying.
71firebird400
Member
I agree with this; if markets were driven by the audience who desired things from their childhood anything older than the 1930's would be worthless by now as those folks are essentially gone.
My first "big boy" revolver was a 4" blued Python. I loved that gun more than anything. I swore by it and vowed never to part with it. Then I got the opportunity to shoot a Model 19 for the first time..............
Bob
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Bob
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Firebird....
.. liking something better and explain why ........ is not bashing the other.....
Things have pros and cons..... my Father Ordered a Colt New Service in 1939 sent it to Kings in Calf. for sights and trigger work...... it was his primary duty gun through the 1960s and his center fire target pistol into the 70s.....he loved that gun.....but for me it just doesn't fit my hand.
If I told you; I like k and L frames better than Js (trigger) or Ns (frame size) is that bashing the latter two S&Ws?
Always wanted a SMOLT..( today that would be a 586 w/ a Python barrel)..best of both worlds...IMHO!!!!!!. LOL
Jealous.....heck no.....about a month ago someone offered me enough $$s for my last safe queen .38 4" Diamondback (I never shot it; as I "prefer" a 4" 19/66 as I shoot them better double-action) to buy both a anib 4" Model 34 and a really nice 3" 65....... that $350 Diamondback was one of the best purchases I've made in 30 years.
As to the Colt SAA....... my generation grew up watching them win the west on TV!!!!!!
.. liking something better and explain why ........ is not bashing the other.....
Things have pros and cons..... my Father Ordered a Colt New Service in 1939 sent it to Kings in Calf. for sights and trigger work...... it was his primary duty gun through the 1960s and his center fire target pistol into the 70s.....he loved that gun.....but for me it just doesn't fit my hand.
If I told you; I like k and L frames better than Js (trigger) or Ns (frame size) is that bashing the latter two S&Ws?
Always wanted a SMOLT..( today that would be a 586 w/ a Python barrel)..best of both worlds...IMHO!!!!!!. LOL
Jealous.....heck no.....about a month ago someone offered me enough $$s for my last safe queen .38 4" Diamondback (I never shot it; as I "prefer" a 4" 19/66 as I shoot them better double-action) to buy both a anib 4" Model 34 and a really nice 3" 65....... that $350 Diamondback was one of the best purchases I've made in 30 years.
As to the Colt SAA....... my generation grew up watching them win the west on TV!!!!!!
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I had a pair of Pythons 25 years ago.....
Nice looking revolvers but I never really liked them enough to keep them. I sold them off with no regret.
The best use of a Python was the barrel put on a Ruger for a "Cougar".
Nice looking revolvers but I never really liked them enough to keep them. I sold them off with no regret.
The best use of a Python was the barrel put on a Ruger for a "Cougar".
OP
lhump1961
US Veteran
You're overstating it. No one here has discredited the Python other than to observe some differences and state preferences. If you're insulted then it's because you read into it. If I really wanted to start in on Colt you'd know it...but that would be political and we won't go there...'nuff said from me! You may continue on your own if you feel the need...
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loeman
Member
lhump1961,
I was worried when writing my original post whether I was treading into "thread killer" territory. It wasn't my intention. It's just that so many folks had so many interesting and different perspectives on your post and I wanted to add my thoughts from an unabashed collector perspective.
I think your original post was clear and well-stated. It's also pretty clear that in a perfect world that ANIB Python would still be in your safe. Sellers remorse is a very powerful feeling for some and less for others. As for me, I've always HAD to sell in order to buy (upgrade) and this process can be really tough. But if you really look deep into yourself and ask what really makes you happy and proud of possession then selling can be a little less painful.
I sold my childhood baseball card collection and comic book collection. The cards dated from the late 1940s to around 1960. The comics were from the late 30s through the 50s. There were many rare examples from each collection. I also sold a small collection of vintage/classic motorcycles. Seller's remorse? None! I used every penny (and then some) of the proceeds to purchase what really moved me personally and what I felt would be a better investment for the future.
I've always been attracted to guns. First they offer a great deal of pleasure and fun in shooting them. Second, when judiciously purchased and maintained, they don't lose their value. Third, in this age of electronic everything they are mechanical and metallurgical marvels that often verge on fine art. I'm not "married" to S&W. I'll collect about any brand from any country as long as the gun meets my personal criteria for quality, aesthetics, investment potential and the deal is fair.
I'm looking forward to the time when I am offered or find an ANIB Python at a price I know will appreciate over time.
71firebird400
Member
Once again, you can state your honest intentions all you want. Makes me wonder though, why you would post a thread about Pythons on a Smith & Wesson forum?
Harkrader
Member
Python heaven!
Like so many others, I had long wanted a Python but always found them too expensive, vs what I saw as their worth and my need.
Then, in 2001 I found one in a gun store in West Allis Wi for $375! I threw in a trade and a few bucks and I had it.
It has considerable holster wear, the grip is wonderfully worn and the backstrap is rusty. Clearly, methinks, a holster gun, probably LE, but no proof.
Barrel and chambers were perfect and lockup was tight. It may have been reblued since I can see what may be minor pitting and rust spots under the finish, a minor turn ring and what look like polishing lines from a hamfist. First time at the range it pitched the knurled knob on the ejector rod.
Collector's piece? Probably not, but, IT'S MINE!
I gotta say, at the range I found nothing special about it, other than pride of ownership. About a year later our oldest son, professional military, came home from The Gods Know Where for a visit and brought a bag full of his own guns. I proudly handed him the Python as I glowed from within, and waited for him to heap praise on it. Now, he was raised in a different era, and has been to a lot of spooky places with a bewildering variety of guns and has his own criteria of what's "great." Sooo - - -
He fires ONE SHOT and says "Oh, yeah. 'This' is way better."
And he pulls 'this,' a well-used GP-100 (that *I* gave him years ago!) out of the bag and says "This one's much better." And proceeds to match me hole for hole on a target at 10 meters. #$%&@#
Oh, well, *I* like it. Here's a picture:
Like so many others, I had long wanted a Python but always found them too expensive, vs what I saw as their worth and my need.
Then, in 2001 I found one in a gun store in West Allis Wi for $375! I threw in a trade and a few bucks and I had it.
It has considerable holster wear, the grip is wonderfully worn and the backstrap is rusty. Clearly, methinks, a holster gun, probably LE, but no proof.
Barrel and chambers were perfect and lockup was tight. It may have been reblued since I can see what may be minor pitting and rust spots under the finish, a minor turn ring and what look like polishing lines from a hamfist. First time at the range it pitched the knurled knob on the ejector rod.
Collector's piece? Probably not, but, IT'S MINE!
I gotta say, at the range I found nothing special about it, other than pride of ownership. About a year later our oldest son, professional military, came home from The Gods Know Where for a visit and brought a bag full of his own guns. I proudly handed him the Python as I glowed from within, and waited for him to heap praise on it. Now, he was raised in a different era, and has been to a lot of spooky places with a bewildering variety of guns and has his own criteria of what's "great." Sooo - - -
He fires ONE SHOT and says "Oh, yeah. 'This' is way better."
And he pulls 'this,' a well-used GP-100 (that *I* gave him years ago!) out of the bag and says "This one's much better." And proceeds to match me hole for hole on a target at 10 meters. #$%&@#
Oh, well, *I* like it. Here's a picture:
Speedieguy
Member
When i started my research on revolvers I had initially had my heart set on a 6" stainless Python. Then I had a HUGE case of sticker shock when I found out how much they cost!
Made my 66-2 purchase an easy one. And it's going to get fought over by my boys one day.
Made my 66-2 purchase an easy one. And it's going to get fought over by my boys one day.
Pythons are over-rated.
RIDE-RED 350r
Member
Very good points, and duly noted.
BUT, ceasing production of a quality product does have a tendency to drive the prices of those products in circulation upwards. Especially when that product has a very enthusiastically loyal customer base along with a well established, if not iconic name. I can't imagine what S&W revolver prices would do on the used market if they ceased all production of revolvers..even the dreaded "new" ones.
I for one would like to see the legendary DA Ponies back in production. It might make owning a Python and Anaconda affordable for me.
I did pull the trigger through on my uncle's Python I mentioned here in a previous post. I found the DA very smooth and buttery. Without having any of my Smiths on me at the time for comparison, I would say the only one in my safe that may rival his Python for smooth DA is my 19-3.
I would have to sell a 3" 625-3, a 3" CS-1, and a 627 PC to buy one Python...there's nothing THAT special about a Colt, IMHO
jrs70
US Veteran
I have only 3 revolvers that are not smiths. Two are Colts. I wanted a shooter python. I did not want to sink big money into a safe queen. It took a while but I fell into a shooter grade blue 2 1/2 inch python. Someone tried to take the finish off the cylinder for $600 about 18 months ago. Other that a few marks it is real nice. I have turned down $1000 for it. It is just nuts what they bring these days.
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As a LEO back in the 70's I had a 6 inch Python I carried on duty. Blue steel and mean looking, I just didn't care for the action or trigger. Sold it $140 ($10 loss) and bought a model 19. Don't regret the decision but wish I had them both back now
At one time I had four 6" Pythons, blue, nickel, SS and a matt blue parkerized. Sold my last one last summer. I'll take my L frames any day over the Colts for shooting. I did win a lot of matches with my 1st Python I bought in 81. Just couldn't find anyone to work on them anymore. Nothing is sweeter than a smooth Smith DA.
Warpspasm
Member
You have to realize that the reason Colts bring such high dollar is because they don't make revolvers anymore, so they become scarce and collectible. I don't own a Python, but I do have a 6" King Cobra which I love and shoot regularly. I paid $500 for it. It too is now going for a crazy amount of money. It's a great revolver, but the price isn't related to how good it is, but how collectible it is. Smith owners sometimes seem to get their panties in a bunch about the prices because I think they forget this. It's not a "better or worse" scenario.
BigBill
Absent Comrade
I did like making 100yd shots at the small rocks on the berm with my python. I was using my 140gr Speer JHP reloads using 2400 powder. Now my question is will my s&w m27 & m28 be able to make pin point shots at 100yds too using my reloads. I think they will be just as accurate as my python was.
I make the same 100yd shots with my cz 85 db in 9mm luger using 3' of Kentucky windage.
I'd like to get another python if the price was reasonable. The last python I seen was $3,600 for a stainless one 6" barrel. That's 4, or 5, maybe six s&w n frames in 357mag. I'm not bashing the python but the game sux.
I'd like another python to test it against the s&w m27, m28 & the ruger security six in 357mag w/6" barrels.
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USBP SW
Member
I have a Python, I take it out and show it to people, they are impressed, then I wrap it back up and put it away. When I want to go shooting, I grab a 28-2, I shoot and enjoy it, the same people who were impressed with the Python are equally impressed with the Highway Patrolman targets.
Harrydale
Member
I am so pleased to hear other folks talk about the aesthetics of a gun. I am fairly new to shooting and/or collecting guns. Got bit buy the bug about 5 years ago. I am more of a collector than a shooter, mainly due to the cost of shooting. But anyway that's not what I am here to talk about.
I go into gun shops and look in the guncases and what attracts me is the how the gun looks I thought I was alone in that thinking, but in reading this thread aesthetics areimportant to most of us. I presently have a J-frame 38 special and a 329PD 4" barrel 44 mag. For me neither of these gun are fun to shoot, especially the 44 mag, that thing beat me to death when I shot it. I shot it 6 times, cleaned it, put it back in the box and I don't care if I shoot it again. BUT I LOVE THAT GUN! I have no plans on parting with it because I love the way it looks and feels. I think, for me at least, is why the Pythons are so collectable. I intend to own one someday, I don't care what they cost. They are just so beautiful they stir something in me whenever I see one. It seems that aesthetics play a more important role in our gun buying decision than we often want to admit.
I go into gun shops and look in the guncases and what attracts me is the how the gun looks I thought I was alone in that thinking, but in reading this thread aesthetics areimportant to most of us. I presently have a J-frame 38 special and a 329PD 4" barrel 44 mag. For me neither of these gun are fun to shoot, especially the 44 mag, that thing beat me to death when I shot it. I shot it 6 times, cleaned it, put it back in the box and I don't care if I shoot it again. BUT I LOVE THAT GUN! I have no plans on parting with it because I love the way it looks and feels. I think, for me at least, is why the Pythons are so collectable. I intend to own one someday, I don't care what they cost. They are just so beautiful they stir something in me whenever I see one. It seems that aesthetics play a more important role in our gun buying decision than we often want to admit.
Put some mild .44spl in that 329 and give it another try.
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RIDE-RED 350r
Member
USBP SW
Member
Yeah buddy! My 28-2 is a tack driver too! Love that "ugly" old N-frame
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and there's certainly nothing ugly about the targets they shoot. I've been making really nice looking targets with a 28-2 for 44 years. There's a reason they have a following.
Take care, Steve
Maximumbob54
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I love Pythons so much I just added another one to the safe:
Yes, the goodyears are gone...
Yes, the goodyears are gone...
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