I have a Python and an L frame Smith. Both are earlier vintage. I got the Python, 6" blue, in the middle 70's because I wanted to use it for PPC matches. But the stock action was too stiff and I did not know anyone who worked on Pythons. So it sat.
Fast forward a number of years, and a gunsmith (Greg Roberts) set up shop in Santa Cruz. He could work on Pythons, and worked on mine in two stages as he learned more and more about them. When leg matches started, unfortunately towards the end of my competition career, I started using the Python for that use. But my LE work and college/academy teaching responsibilities forced me to give up PPC competitions. I only got to use the Python in one leg match, but it shot within either one or two points (forget which) of the best I had ever shot with my customized PPC revolver. I had read that Python barrels, with their tapered bores, were match grade accurate. I can attest to this.
Concurrent to this I bought a 6" L frame. I had a specific intent for this revolver, so among the customizing steps was a full match (not duty) action job.
By this time I had switched to shooting DA only, even at the 50 yard line, so I can't compare SA pulls. Comparing the Python and the L frame, the DA pulls are equally smooth, with the L frame being a little lighter. Given how well the Python shot for me in its one competition outing, that difference was immaterial, at least for me.
To further muddy the waters, my PPC competition revolver was built up on a Ruger Service Six frame. In comparing all three DA actions, all are equally smooth. Each has its own individual feel. Of the three the Python is still the heaviest of the three. The L frame Smith and the Ruger are almost too close to call as to which is lighter, with the L frame Smith perhaps being lighter by a hair. None of these differences will make any difference in your X count.
Now it comes down to the tough call. Were I in your shoes, and I wanted a Python as badly as I did at the time, I would spend the extra money, because I would not otherwise be satisfied. Sometimes we just have to pay extra to get what we want, without any objective way to justify the expense.
But if you are concerned with cost, you are looking for what will fill your needs, and you don't need the Python to ever achieve happiness, the L frame is a great revolver. As I said in another thread, I consider the L frame to be the best .357 platform Smith & Wesson have ever made. I think either are equally capable shooters.
One last point. Going on what I have read, and read on this thread, I would have no hesitation in buying a current production Python.
It is like the old racing dilemma: Speed costs money; how fast do you want to go?
