Iknow I know but just had anargument with my brother in law which is best. I sold him a Phython years back that I got in a multiple gun deal a 4 in blue in 98% condition ( He gave me$250 bucks, what a nice guy I am). His claim is that the phython is the finest 357 mag revolver ever made. I said the finest Medium Frame 357 but cain't be compaired to the model 27 mith & Wesson. I also have a 19-4 6 inch blue that I can shoot better tha the colt and I believe it has a supperior doubble action short throw. But therenot the same revolver the 19 has a smaller frame. It's hard to compair because they are all very different revolvers. Colt has a soother actionbut not for shooting on double action. All my smiths have incredable single action pull. Any thoughts from the Smith Masters
S & W Vs. Colt
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CCantu357
Member
I own a Model 19 no dash full target, and I have shot a comparable vintage Python. The Python reminded me of the old expression "never meet your heros", very overrated for its price and reputation. A good Model 19 or especially 27 wins hand down.
Ford, Chevy, and Dodge............,which one works for you.............I had a 1968 Python. Great gun. Very smooth. Have/had many Smith's. Great guns. Very smooth. Is a red head or a brunette the best woman? Maybe a blonde? See where this is going...........Almost forgot, Which is the best beer? 
DAinTX
Member
Having had a few examples of both....the Python is a very excellent .357 revolver, no question about it. The build quality and finish on the older ones is simply outstanding. But like a couple of the guys above, I still give the overall edge to the Model 27. I like the 27's single-action trigger better and I consider it to have the more robust, stronger action. And the build quality and finish on the older guns leaves nothing to complain about either.
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i have several pythons and they are great guns...as are the smiths!
breakingbad
Member
I have both and the Python should not be compared to a model 27 bec of the large difference in the frame size. I think you have to compare the Python to either a K or L frame.
The Python is the better feeling gun to shoot, no question. The DA on the Snake is superior to the Smith, it is so smooth and predictable. The SA is a wash. But the K and L frame Smiths are more robust, which any cop who carried both will probably tell you. The Snake could break stuff as a duty gun, whereas the Smiths just won't break.
Pythons are NOT overrated - I have a 1965 and a 1969 4", and a 1975 6". I shoot all three. To me, they handle the .357 magnum load better than the L frame Smith in that the follow-up shot is easier to come back on target. The recoil just feels less in the Snake compared to the Smith. I think the Pyhton might be a tad more accurate - just a smidge.
The Python is the better feeling gun to shoot, no question. The DA on the Snake is superior to the Smith, it is so smooth and predictable. The SA is a wash. But the K and L frame Smiths are more robust, which any cop who carried both will probably tell you. The Snake could break stuff as a duty gun, whereas the Smiths just won't break.
Pythons are NOT overrated - I have a 1965 and a 1969 4", and a 1975 6". I shoot all three. To me, they handle the .357 magnum load better than the L frame Smith in that the follow-up shot is easier to come back on target. The recoil just feels less in the Snake compared to the Smith. I think the Pyhton might be a tad more accurate - just a smidge.
I have a Python that in DA is better then any Smith I have owned or shot. But the revolver was worked on by Austin Belhart.
Now, for SA, my Smiths are crisp & better then the Colt.
So, Chevy or Ford?
Now, for SA, my Smiths are crisp & better then the Colt.
So, Chevy or Ford?
I think the Pythons are way over rated. The lock work is very complicated and fragile, when I look at it, I wonder what were they thinking. The Python does have some desirable features but considering you can get 2-3 model 27's for what one Python would cost and with the 27 being just as accurate and more robust, I think its a no brainer. I am still trying to get my Python to shoot the way I think it should but I am not holding my breath.
CCantu357
Member
I also found the more muzzle flip with the Python even though it is full lug. Perhaps just me.
I've owned several Colts, and a bunch of Smith & Wessons. For all intents and purposes, I can't tell a dimes worth of difference.
I've got both a 27-2, and a Python. I paid about the same for each of them (around $800) this year. The 27 looks a little better but that's about it. I can't say it shoots any better. Can't say the Colt does either. Maybe I'm just a bad shot with either.
I like them both and don't worry about which one is better.
I've got both a 27-2, and a Python. I paid about the same for each of them (around $800) this year. The 27 looks a little better but that's about it. I can't say it shoots any better. Can't say the Colt does either. Maybe I'm just a bad shot with either.
I like them both and don't worry about which one is better.
With all due respect, why don't you ask Grant Cunningham how "fragile" a Python's lockwork is.
In regards to the whole "S&W vs. Colt" debate, it's an apples to oranges comparison as far as I'm concerned. I happen to like the trigger stacking inherent in Colt's design, and some of my best DA shooting was done with a Detective Special with its similarly archaic Police Positive lockwork. I've also never had to replace a single part in all of the years the missus and I have owned it; not even the hand which is a normal replacement item.
I like Smiths and Colts in equal shares and admire them both for their individual strengths; I see nothing wrong with owning both.
The N frame S&W is a classic whether chambered in .357 or .44. The quality of a Python is amazing! I own both and couldn't pick one over the other. But they are 2 different size frames and lock work. The single action on a Python, ( I owned 3) are without question wonderfull. A novice shooter always let's a "flyer" go not expecting it to be so light.
I think a Python is over priced now, but the "collectors" are the problem not the gun.
I think a Python is over priced now, but the "collectors" are the problem not the gun.
NFrameFred
Member
Would have to agree.
Would have to respectfully disagree about that being 'superior' ("smooth" I'll give you - "predictable" . . . not so much). Having shot tens of thousands of rounds in competition and having used a Python and K and N frames, the difference is the 'stacking' of the trigger. The Python does have a smooth straight through pull but depending on what you want to do shooting double action that can be a detriment.
At the risk of starting the argument all over again with the arm chair commandos that one should never "stage" the trigger on a double action revolver much less >horrors< train yourself to do so, in precision shooting using double action one would have to shoot many thousands of rounds consistently with a Python and develop a strong bond with the gun to even come close to matching what can be done using the proper technique of staging the trigger on a S&W. For the sake of my argument one need only specify the two standard PPC distances of 25 and 50 yards to prove the truth of the statement. I posit you will never see (other than a notable throw-out-the-average exception) someone shoot a Python as consistently accurate at those distances under timed conditions as a comparably talented shooter with a S&W using a proper staging technique and a fine tuned revolver. That's my opinion, but it is based on experience and observation - you might not agree and you're welcome to prove me wrong - not just insist I am wrong.
Beans
Member
I agree having shot PPC back in the mid 70's I found that the Python was a great gun but preferred the Smith for the double action.
VaRecon
Member
I don't knock Colt, they make a fine firearm.
But my friend's Python can't touch my 27.
He has a python blued, 6 in, paid almost a grand more then I dropped on my flawless 27 with the 8 3/8" barrel.
He may outshoot me when we each have a glock but at any distance I consecutively shoot better with my 27.
And not just against him.
I am S&W only. For the money, they are the best revolvers ever made.
But my friend's Python can't touch my 27.
He has a python blued, 6 in, paid almost a grand more then I dropped on my flawless 27 with the 8 3/8" barrel.
He may outshoot me when we each have a glock but at any distance I consecutively shoot better with my 27.
And not just against him.
I am S&W only. For the money, they are the best revolvers ever made.
44wheelman
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As the Rule, S&W has a better d.a. trigger pull. I could not stand the stack-up of the snake guns.
However; I bought an Anoconda a couple years ago that had been throught the Colt Custom Shop....wow. For a gun that I paid less for than my S&W 629DX...it has an excellent action, and shoots as well as my DX. I never knew it was possible for Colts to be that good.
I had a Python I bought brand new in the 90's: my Dan Wesson shot half size groups at less than half the price. Between that & the several series 80's gun I bought that shot "patterns" not groups, I have always held low regards for Colts, given the prices they were selling for. But I also picked up an inexpensive Targetsman that shoots pretty darn well. So these days I have less disdain for Colt, but still believe for the price, you can't beat S&W.
However; I bought an Anoconda a couple years ago that had been throught the Colt Custom Shop....wow. For a gun that I paid less for than my S&W 629DX...it has an excellent action, and shoots as well as my DX. I never knew it was possible for Colts to be that good.
I had a Python I bought brand new in the 90's: my Dan Wesson shot half size groups at less than half the price. Between that & the several series 80's gun I bought that shot "patterns" not groups, I have always held low regards for Colts, given the prices they were selling for. But I also picked up an inexpensive Targetsman that shoots pretty darn well. So these days I have less disdain for Colt, but still believe for the price, you can't beat S&W.
VaRecon
Member
I don't see a clear resolution possible or this thread lasting too long without being locked down.
It's apples to oranges people, I prefer my Smith and always will.
But there are diehard Colt fans whose argument probably won't be wrong, just different.
If someone has the cash and wants the Colt more power to them, I will let the range results speak for me and my 27.
It's apples to oranges people, I prefer my Smith and always will.
But there are diehard Colt fans whose argument probably won't be wrong, just different.
If someone has the cash and wants the Colt more power to them, I will let the range results speak for me and my 27.
I only own one colt, a Cobra from the 1950's. I am not sure if it shares a similar lockwork as the python or not, I know they are different frames, but that thing is tempramental at best. I have avoided Colts because of this, and the price. Although I did have the opportunity to buy an Anaconda at a decent price recently, I passed.
Many years ago, when police officers in my department bought their own revolvers, the range officers said that 90% of the guns on the firing line were Smiths and 90% of the malfunctions were Colts. The action of the Python and other older Colts is very smooth but prone to going out of time and striking the primer off center. If you watch closely while slowly pulling the trigger double action, the cylinder will lock before the hammer falls on a Smith and not on the Colt. The Colts with the Mark III and newer lockwork are not as smooth, but much more reliable.
I also do not care for the raised checkering on the Python grips (or are they also stocks?). They provide a good grip, but can be painful when shooting a lot of magnum loads.
Bob
I also do not care for the raised checkering on the Python grips (or are they also stocks?). They provide a good grip, but can be painful when shooting a lot of magnum loads.
Bob
Vulcan Bob
Member
Both are fine firearms. However since I tend to be more practical as I do shoot them I think finding someone to fix a broken S&W is a lot easier than finding someone to fix a Colt. That said I do own some Colts and like them but I hope they never break!
Rio Vista Slim
Member
I AM NOT an Expert!
Since that's established, I have owned a variety of Smith & Wesson and Colt revolvers, beginning my acquisitions in 1970.
Speaking personally, the two six inch blued Pythons I owned were the most beautiful revolvers. Those two were accurate, reliable, and I eventually got used to the triggers when fired double-action. I also owned a variety of Detective Specials and Cobras.
Since most of my revolver shooting (both then and now) was done with S&W J, K, L, and N frames, I am more proficent with the Smith & Wesson triggers and actions. Once again, this is a personal preference, as I feel there are enough differences in the two brands to make comparisons rather moot.
Additionally, there is no comparison between the "feel" of shooting a Python and a Detective Special. Same thing between a Model 27 and a Model 36.
Although most of the purchases I made in the 1970s and 80s are long gone, my current revolvers are mostly Smith & Wessons because I'm a shooter, not a collector. Plus, I shoot my Model 686 better than I could shoot my now-departed Python. That revolver went to someone who could appreciate the Python for what it is, and not be worried (as I was) about wear-and-tear.
Since that's established, I have owned a variety of Smith & Wesson and Colt revolvers, beginning my acquisitions in 1970.
Speaking personally, the two six inch blued Pythons I owned were the most beautiful revolvers. Those two were accurate, reliable, and I eventually got used to the triggers when fired double-action. I also owned a variety of Detective Specials and Cobras.
Since most of my revolver shooting (both then and now) was done with S&W J, K, L, and N frames, I am more proficent with the Smith & Wesson triggers and actions. Once again, this is a personal preference, as I feel there are enough differences in the two brands to make comparisons rather moot.
Additionally, there is no comparison between the "feel" of shooting a Python and a Detective Special. Same thing between a Model 27 and a Model 36.
Although most of the purchases I made in the 1970s and 80s are long gone, my current revolvers are mostly Smith & Wessons because I'm a shooter, not a collector. Plus, I shoot my Model 686 better than I could shoot my now-departed Python. That revolver went to someone who could appreciate the Python for what it is, and not be worried (as I was) about wear-and-tear.
Joewisc
US Veteran
I checked Guns International and the Smith 27 asking price is well below the Python. Perhaps it's supply and demand, but the snakes are fetching much more these days. Then again Colts always seem pricey. I think Hickok .45 has a YT vid up where he shoots both and the Python FTF in DA while the Smith didn't. For what that's worth.
I agree this thread should be locked by a moderator before it gets out of control.
Before any other "experts" want to repeat the persistent myth of Pythons spitting lead if you so much as look at them funny, I would like to refer everyone to Grant Cunningham's Is the Colt Python "delicate"? (here's a cached version in case you can't get it to load).
The only valid arguments I've head against the Python or any Colt with similar lockwork thus far are that there's a markedly diminished number of gunsmiths skilled in working on those actions and that you either love or hate the stacking inherent in their trigger pulls.
Colt's aren't "weak" because they aren't as forgiving about lack of maintenance. Period. It's an established fact that you must get a new hand fitted once the cylinder ceases to go into full "welded to the frame" lockup. This is a quirk of the design, not a "flaw."
Before any other "experts" want to repeat the persistent myth of Pythons spitting lead if you so much as look at them funny, I would like to refer everyone to Grant Cunningham's Is the Colt Python "delicate"? (here's a cached version in case you can't get it to load).
The only valid arguments I've head against the Python or any Colt with similar lockwork thus far are that there's a markedly diminished number of gunsmiths skilled in working on those actions and that you either love or hate the stacking inherent in their trigger pulls.
Colt's aren't "weak" because they aren't as forgiving about lack of maintenance. Period. It's an established fact that you must get a new hand fitted once the cylinder ceases to go into full "welded to the frame" lockup. This is a quirk of the design, not a "flaw."
Apologies in advance if I'm mistaken, but if that statement was directed towards me, I was speaking more from an operational context as the Python and DS share more mechanical similarities than the M-27 and M-36, i.e. the lockwork performs similar functions in both. If I had to compare the shooting experience in my own subjective opinion, I'd say it's almost like shooting my 686, albeit with the characteristic DA "stacking" and straight-through pull that doesn't lend itself well to staging as another poster noted.
Joewisc
US Veteran
Well, it's conceded here that Colts require more maintenance. Therefore, it follows, they cost more to operate. Don't see a reason to close the thread. People are entitled to their opinions.
I think the vent rib barrel, on the Python, looks silly. The model 27 and 19 actions can be made just as slick as any Python. I vote straight S&W ticket.
bmcgilvray
Member
Smith & Wesson, at least the classic, "traditional" ones win hands down in my mind. I have some neato Colts as well including a Python and feel classic Colt models are a solid number two. Not really interested in any other revolver manufacturers except Webley.
The only Colt that is superior to similar Smith & Wesson models is the Detective Special which is the best snub for the purpose. I don't like its double-action trigger pull as well as a Smith & Wesson but the Detective Special is the best, most practical snub ever made. Accurate, compact, and six shots. No need to deal with J-Frames when the Detective Special is available.
I think the Python is fine and feel it is sturdier than its modern internet reputation suggests. While I enjoy shooting the Python at targets in single-action mode I don't find its double-action trigger to be anything extra-special. I much prefer the Models 27 and 28 over any other .357 Magnum revolver including the Python. To my mind the great New Service and the Officer's Model revolvers should be ahead of the Python on a list of great Colt revolvers.
The only Colt that is superior to similar Smith & Wesson models is the Detective Special which is the best snub for the purpose. I don't like its double-action trigger pull as well as a Smith & Wesson but the Detective Special is the best, most practical snub ever made. Accurate, compact, and six shots. No need to deal with J-Frames when the Detective Special is available.
I think the Python is fine and feel it is sturdier than its modern internet reputation suggests. While I enjoy shooting the Python at targets in single-action mode I don't find its double-action trigger to be anything extra-special. I much prefer the Models 27 and 28 over any other .357 Magnum revolver including the Python. To my mind the great New Service and the Officer's Model revolvers should be ahead of the Python on a list of great Colt revolvers.
