S&W Model 27 vs. Colt Python

[RobC2]

I recently picked up a new-to-me Colt Python and thought it would be cool to grab my Model 27-2 and try them out back to back at the range. The results were surprisingly close. In my examples, the Python is better finished and wins in the looks department, but in shooting they are both quite similar. Accuracy probably has to go to the Python as they lock up like no other revolver I have seen. Overall balance and recoil control is comparable, as are the sights. The trigger pulls are both fantastic, but in different ways. The Colt has an almost two stage pull in DA that I think will take some getting used to. The Python was made in '72 and the 27 was made in '76. They really did make some nice guns back then.

Here are a couple of pics (note that the original magnas on the 27 have been replaced temporarily with later target stocks)

 

[Dennis The B]

Side-by-side, those have been my observations, also. Those two are probably the finest production double-action revolvers ever made.

 

[rockyrider]

I agree 2 different awesome pieces . I have both in 8 inch barrels .the stacked double action trigger on the Python takes some getting use to where as the model 27 can be pulled easier. single action they both shoot in spades .

 

[DCWilson]

Both fine revolvers. I include the Python's immediate predecessor, the 357, with the Python as it is the same gun without the ventilated rib. Not as stylish, but the human hand holding the gun cannot tell the difference.

Maybe I'm just making up a story to correlate an observed design detail with a sensation, but I always thought the Python's spectacularly fine trigger pull had to be the result of the dogleg mainspring.

 

[Art Doc]

Both are the top of their respective lines. Both are deluxe. In its heyday the Python edges the 27 fit and finish. Most shooters prefer the S&W trigger feel. Most dislike the Colt's pull to open cylinder release. Neither feature troubles me in the least. Colts were bored with a slight taper making them very accurate with lead bullets.

I love my Pythons and I love my 27s. I have more of the latter mostly because the Colts got so pricey when Colt gave up on handguns.

 

[ditrina]

Both are the top of their respective lines. Both are deluxe. In its heyday the Python edges the 27 fit and finish. Most shooters prefer the S&W trigger feel. Most dislike the Colt's pull to open cylinder release. Neither feature troubles me in the least. Colts were bored with a slight taper making them very accurate with lead bullets.

I love my Pythons and I love my 27s. I have more of the latter mostly because the Colts got so pricey when Colt gave up on handguns.

LIKE !...

 

[Dennis The B]

Here are two sets of triplets -

 

[STCM(SW)]

Have both, the Python has a DA of 6.5 lbs, hard to beat.
SA on both is about equal, but the Python has a action job by Austin Behlert.

Bad thing is I took my soon to be wife to a outdoor range and praising my Python let her shoot it.
She then turned to me and said “ Thank you for the nice gun.”
Yea, what would you guys have said…….

 

[Stirling]

I would agree that both are fine revolvers that deserve a place in any collection. I would even go as far to say that the Python has the edge in looks department although the 5" M27 is an absolute beauty.

I have found the Colt action to be incredibly smooth but prefer my M28 double action for example. It may go to preference but I most certainly wouldn't mind owning a Python to become more conversant with its action. LOL

PS I love your pictures gents.

 

[RobC2]

Great pictures everyone. Now I want to add a 3.5" 27 and 6" Python to the collection. It will probably be a while though...

 

[InolaOK]

Great photos, thanks for sharing. I also own Cobras & 27's. The comments reflect my own opinions.

 

[CajunBass]

Does anybody really think one or the other is great and the other is junk? They're both top of the line, and they perform as such IMHO.

I shoot equally poorly with both.

 

[moe l.]

Maybe it's just me, but revolvers are so much sexier than semi-auto pistols.

 

[66Park]

Maybe it's just me, but revolvers are so much sexier than semi-auto pistols.

It's not just you, though 1911s do hold a special place in my heart. Looking at all these Python pictures makes me morn the loss of the six inch Python I bought new in 1980. At the time, I was young and, due to a really nasty incident, was very into self protection. I couldn't afford to keep the Python, which I couldn't carry concealed, and get the 1911 I felt I needed. Maybe someday I'll get another. They are certainly beautiful guns. I always liked the Smith double action trigger pull better than the Python, though.

 

[66Park]

Does anybody really think one or the other is great and the other is junk? They're both top of the line, and they perform as such IMHO.

I shoot equally poorly with both.

Now that is a beautiful pair!

 

[mkk41]

I think I'm lucky enough to have acquired 4 of the finest American made .357 wheelguns.

1954 Colt .357 and 1960 Python.

And a 1956 5-screw , 6in Higthway Patrolman and 1974 5in 27-2.

BTW, I have the original grips for both Colts. But they just don't fit my hand at all.

 

[Art Doc]

moe l. - I can tell you why. Revolvers are round, they are organic. Semi-autos are machines.

 

[BigBill]

My 6" python using speer 140gr JHP reloads could make pin point shots at 100yds on the berm. I could ping any small rock on the berm at will. I do not have a S&W yet in 357 but soon i will.

They say the S&W K22 target masterpiece in 22lr and the colt target with its solid loc up on the cylinder, they say the S&W is more accurate over the colt. I will compare them soon as it warms up.

 

[nbragtop]

4"-5"-6"

I have a 27-2 5", my best friend has a Python in a 4" and 6". All three are in excellent condition. Shooting the same ammo the 27-2 5" seems to hold tighter groups (just barely) for both of us. The 27-2 for us seems as accurate as the 6" Python and a little more accurate than the 4" Python.
The triggers go to the Python (just barely). The 4" Python feels a little more balanced to hold. I know the Pythons worth alot more money. But we enjoy shooting our guns. I would choose my over these 2 Pythons because it seem like my one gun does the same as what both Pythons do. Of course, I my be a little biased.
I am very happy with my 27-2. I do have a question please, why you I see so few 5" barrels? Where they made for a special purpose or did they just not sell? Any suggestions for a good holster for the 27-2 5"

 

[model70hunter]

Have both, the Python has a DA of 6.5 lbs, hard to beat.
SA on both is about equal, but the Python has a action job by Austin Behlert.

Bad thing is I took my soon to be wife to a outdoor range and praising my Python let her shoot it.
She then turned to me and said “ Thank you for the nice gun.”
Yea, what would you guys have said…….

Better marry her to get your Colt back. My wife went with me in our 1st year of marriage to be with me while I deer hunted, she got hooked. She then stole my custom Pre-64 WIN and bagged a lot of deer with it. I pulled another Pre-64 out of the safe and learned to like it.