S&W Model 27 or Colt Python?

[Daimler1989]

had both and am happy mith the 27-3

Hi,

my first .357 was a Python 6" back in 1984. I had no complaints about accuracy, but never could become familiar with the grip and the trigger feel. Got a M29 6" two years later and I found it superior in every respect to the Python - except for the finish and the bare look. Gave the Python away in 88 for my 27-3 4" and never looked back. The 27 is a great shooter and handles exceptionally well.

I'd love to have a Python as a safe queen, but german gun laws are so prohibitive, you can get no permits for guns, of which the authorities think you don't need

best regards
Ulrich

 

[RCleveland44]

S & W Model 27 or Colt Python

Have owned and shot both; also 586/686, 66, etc.
Without going into details (which would pretty much repeat what's already been said) IMHO the Smith is a better design, better handgun. Python's shinier. That's about it. Wonderfully accurate but I've never felt at a disadvantage with any of my Smiths. Also like the sights and trigger better on the S & W.
"To each his own, said the old lady as she kissed the cow."

 

[G-Mac]

....and a "N" frame Smith = .44 mag.

"N" frame Smith was a .357 Magnum before it was a .44 Magnum.

 

[SWID]

In your original post you said you wanted to carry it among other things, so if I were you I would get a 4 inch 28 (not 27) and have the most reliable .357 there is and at comparatively little cost.

There is a saying, Colts are great guns if you don't shoot them, and it has some basis in fact. That doesn't mean you can't shoot them at all, but they won't take the thousands of rounds that an S&W will. I agree with what others have said that the Python is overstyled. The 28 is all business, and it just keeps on going. You want the 27 finish, it will cost you about $300.00.

 

[GF1]

Shoot the Smith, collect the Colt. Had several of both; the Smiths stayed.

Both usually have excellent single action triggers (Smiths more uniformly so), I much prefer the Smith double action pull vice the increased loading of the Colt mechanism. I like Smith sights far better (except if you find one done up with Elliason sights), and the grip feels better, especially after I slim up and bob the bottom of the target grips. Of the Colts, I found I liked the 4" the best...

 

[dmar]

I say you really need to have try to get one of each; they are both great guns. That being said; I've got a model 27 and a Python, and love them both, but I have to honestly say that if one had to go, I'd still have the Colt!

Just my 2 cents, but the Colt just feels much better in the hand, shoots a little better for me, and is finished and styled beautifully. The Model 27 does seem to have a more 'solid' (rugged) action, but that being said, I've never had any issues with any of my Colt revolvers (or S&Ws) over the years... I also like the checkering of the top strat on the Model 27, it's a pretty cool feature...

I also think that you need to take some time and handle each example, I believe that for most people, they will have an 'instinct' on which one they truly "want" compared to the other (you'll 'feel' better with one, compared to the other). This S&W vs. Colt is the never-ending comparison/argument, but again, if I would have to have just one, it would be the Colt. Good luck and I hope you get a good one!

 

[Philblack]

And in the meantime, just take a few minutes in reading this

 

[Wingwiper]

Always been fond of my Python....

 

[sigp220.45]

I love my well worn Python. If you can only get one, I'd recommend the Colt:

 

[Wingwiper]

Guess you could have both without buying two guns.... Just saw this thread today

http://smith-wessonforum.com/showthread.php?t=91796

 

[tabs]

686 or 586....

 

[kennyb]

I say you really need to have try to get one of each; they are both great guns. That being said; I've got a model 27 and a Python, and love them both, but I have to honestly say that if one had to go, I'd still have the Colt!

Just my 2 cents, but the Colt just feels much better in the hand, shoots a little better for me, and is finished and styled beautifully. The Model 27 does seem to have a more 'solid' (rugged) action, but that being said, I've never had any issues with any of my Colt revolvers (or S&Ws) over the years... I also like the checkering of the top strat on the Model 27, it's a pretty cool feature...

I also think that you need to take some time and handle each example, I believe that for most people, they will have an 'instinct' on which one they truly "want" compared to the other (you'll 'feel' better with one, compared to the other). This S&W vs. Colt is the never-ending comparison/argument, but again, if I would have to have just one, it would be the Colt. Good luck and I hope you get a good one!

+1 i have both....i have owned a number of colts,including a python....have never had an issue with them