Python Brl. on a S&W ?

[Bob96]

I remember way back some folks would put a python brl on a S&W - I think K frame version? what was the purpose of this conversion? did the Colt brl. just screw in to a S&W?

 

[tomcatt51]

Smython. Definitely major cool factor and the Python barrels have a faster twist which can give better accuracy. Not a "screw in" proposition.

 

[bwickens]

If my somewhat foggy memory is correct, the late Bill Jordan, when he was still with "Shooting Times", did an article on the conversion detailing the problems involved. I think Jim Clark did the conversion. The Smolt, as Jordan called it, worked but not enough better to justify the headaches involved. Shortly after that, some smiths stated putting Python barrels on Security Sixes, the conversion being called the Couger for Colt-Ruger. This was before S&W brought out the L-frame, thus rendering all such hybrids unnecessary. At least I think that's what happened.

 

[BubbaBlades]

I like the weight and balance of my Smythons better than the original M19s that they were made from. The Python barrels do seem to also improve accuracy. Note that there is no lockup between the front of the ejector jod and the barrel.

This Couger out shot my 6" S/S unaltered Colt Python in a recent range session using four different ammo selections. The Colt Python's action seemed smoother however the balance and grip size of the Couger may have allowed me to shoot it better.
Mark

 

[MakeMyNight]

If my somewhat foggy memory is correct, the late Bill Jordan, when he was still with "Shooting Times", did an article on the conversion detailing the problems involved. I think Jim Clark did the conversion. The Smolt, as Jordan called it, worked but not enough better to justify the headaches involved. Shortly after that, some smiths stated putting Python barrels on Security Sixes, the conversion being called the Couger for Colt-Ruger. This was before S&W brought out the L-frame, thus rendering all such hybrids unnecessary. At least I think that's what happened.

You are correct, and I remember that particular issue.
I loaned it to someone, and they never returned it.....**sigh**

 

[lebomm]

Bob96;
+1 to tomcatt51's response about the "screw-in". The two barrel shanks are pretty different, the Colt shank has to be turned smaller and rethreaded for the Smith M19 frame.

Larry

 

[westcoast362]

Mine is on an N frame.

 

[Bob96]

Am I remembering correctly when I read that the Colt Python Barrel was slightly tapered-narrowed inside toward the muzzle which was siad to incrase accuracy?

 

[badguybuster]

It's odd the things people do when their mind run away with them.

 

[captainjohnsofd]

Many moons ago I worked for Austin Behlert in the Union, New Jersey shop. He (his guys) did a few of these S&W/Colt conversions for customers. We listed the job in the catalog as a "Smython". The two I recall were Model 19's in blue- one was a 6" and the other 2.5". A ball detent crane lock was installed in lieu of the front lock. They both were tack drivers with wadcutters. There was extensive machining needed for the Colt barrel to fit the S&W frame. It was worth it.

 

[tomcatt51]

Am I remembering correctly when I read that the Colt Python Barrel was slightly tapered-narrowed inside toward the muzzle which was siad to incrase accuracy?

The Pythons just had a faster twist, 1 in 14 if I remember right.

 

[A10]

I've seen and handled a couple, and the owners swore by them. To me it's a little like dropping a 350 Chev engine into a Mustang.....might be fun but it just ain't right.

 

[lebomm]

Bob96,
It's the Colt's barrel shank that has tapered threads, smaller toward the breech, not a tapered bore.

Larry

 

[k22fan]

I have a hazy memory of Smolts and Cougars being sold along with the rumor that Python barrels had smaller groove diameters than Smiths or Rugers and that the .354" (?) Python barrels grouped tighter with 148 gr. HBWCs. Does that sound familiar or even make any sense?

Gil

 

[guesser]

The original reason for doing it was for steel silhouette shooting in the early days. The S&W stood up to the heavy loads and continuous use better than the Colts, but the Colt barrels were more accurate due to twist and bore diameter. Back in the 70's when the IHGSA headquarters was in Idaho Falls Idaho, the gun smiths in that area did a lot of the conversions and modifications. It is described in Elgin Gates' book on the sport.