feralmerril
Absent Comrade
Phils, maybe that reliability thing is in the luck of the draw? Read vemous1s account further back. I have both and have been luckys with both.
SW 686 versus COLT Python?
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JoeS
Member
I personally think the Smith and Wesson is the better fighting revolver. I find their double action pull easier to master. At one time you might have found some gunsmiths that could tune out the 'stacking' of a Python action but they're few and far between.
I tried using a six inch Python in police matches in the very late 70s. I shot up to expert scores with it, then tried a Smith and Wesson of a friend with a Bo-Mar rib on it and saw my scores jump 15 points just like that. It was then no mystery to me why I was the only shooter with a Colt out of 50 guys.
The Python served well in the sense I could use it for bowling pins with full house magnums but if the L frame had been on the market at the time I would have went that way.
If it were me, unless I was just hot for a Python I'd buy a 686, have the action tuned and shoot away.
I tried using a six inch Python in police matches in the very late 70s. I shot up to expert scores with it, then tried a Smith and Wesson of a friend with a Bo-Mar rib on it and saw my scores jump 15 points just like that. It was then no mystery to me why I was the only shooter with a Colt out of 50 guys.
The Python served well in the sense I could use it for bowling pins with full house magnums but if the L frame had been on the market at the time I would have went that way.
If it were me, unless I was just hot for a Python I'd buy a 686, have the action tuned and shoot away.
The first 357 Magnums I ever shot almost 30 years ago was my father's 4" Model 19 and my Uncle's 6" Python, which both of them still have. Both are VERY high quality. A few months ago, I shot the Python again, and the result was the same. You can't go wrong with either.
Myself personally, I am partial to the 4" Smiths. I bought a 4" 686 no dash about six years ago. It had a plain black rear sight. I ordered a white outline to replace it. I never shot it to check to see if it was sighted in. A few months later I had the opportunity to go to firearms instructor scool with my Dept. and got to take the 686.....and passed. Talk about a gamble.
Would I buy a Python....Yes I would...they are a wonderful piece of work. They are very over priced, due to the fact Colt doesn't make them anymore. If they did, the price probably would come down on the older ones, because everyone would buy new.
Both are high quality firearms....and you wouldn' be disappointed either way... I know I wouldn't be. With all the calibers to choose from, I feel the 357 Mag is the best ever created. Look at the popular models....Smith models 19, 27, 28, 66, 586, 686, Ruger SP101, GP100, and Colt Trooper, Python......nothing bad about any of them.
Myself personally, I am partial to the 4" Smiths. I bought a 4" 686 no dash about six years ago. It had a plain black rear sight. I ordered a white outline to replace it. I never shot it to check to see if it was sighted in. A few months later I had the opportunity to go to firearms instructor scool with my Dept. and got to take the 686.....and passed. Talk about a gamble.
Would I buy a Python....Yes I would...they are a wonderful piece of work. They are very over priced, due to the fact Colt doesn't make them anymore. If they did, the price probably would come down on the older ones, because everyone would buy new.
Both are high quality firearms....and you wouldn' be disappointed either way... I know I wouldn't be. With all the calibers to choose from, I feel the 357 Mag is the best ever created. Look at the popular models....Smith models 19, 27, 28, 66, 586, 686, Ruger SP101, GP100, and Colt Trooper, Python......nothing bad about any of them.
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I realize that there are many newer threads discussing 'Python vs 686/586', but I think I enjoyed reading this one the most. The price changes are especially interesting, but also the heavy leaning in favor of the 686/586. That was 2009. Members seemed to have a more positive attitude toward the Python by the 2013/2017 thread I located.
I did my 'Python vs 686' search because I have been shooting a 686, but have a blued 1970 Python and a couple of blued N-frame .357's arriving soon. I've handled all the guns, just haven't taken possession of the Python and N-frames yet. As far as looks, the Python blued finish is really incredible. At the time I held the Python the shop also had a blued 27-2 and it was pretty amazing as well, but not as nice as the Python (in my opinion). Both guns were 98%+
As far as shooting, one thing I'm getting from these threads is that different examples of the same model can have very different action, so it might not matter at all what I discover with only one example of each gun. I have old, weak wrists and personally can't handle the 686 in double-action with .357 rounds. I'm hoping things will be better with the other guns.
Sorry if bringing up super-old threads is frowned upon (I don't know), but I enjoy spending a fair amount of time just reading through the old stuff in this forum, so there must be a few others who do the same.
I did my 'Python vs 686' search because I have been shooting a 686, but have a blued 1970 Python and a couple of blued N-frame .357's arriving soon. I've handled all the guns, just haven't taken possession of the Python and N-frames yet. As far as looks, the Python blued finish is really incredible. At the time I held the Python the shop also had a blued 27-2 and it was pretty amazing as well, but not as nice as the Python (in my opinion). Both guns were 98%+
As far as shooting, one thing I'm getting from these threads is that different examples of the same model can have very different action, so it might not matter at all what I discover with only one example of each gun. I have old, weak wrists and personally can't handle the 686 in double-action with .357 rounds. I'm hoping things will be better with the other guns.
Sorry if bringing up super-old threads is frowned upon (I don't know), but I enjoy spending a fair amount of time just reading through the old stuff in this forum, so there must be a few others who do the same.
Bumpus13
Member
Holy Necro Thread Bump, Batman!!!
I have a Python and several 686's. I love them all. The Python was my first handgun so it is a priceless gun, but it has been used, abused and beat to hell and still shoots great. I know probably 25k+ rounds. They each have their own positives and negatives so I try to love them both for what they are. Is one better than the other? Is a blonde better than a redhead? We all have our own taste. That's why there are menus at restaurants, we all don't want the same thing
mike campbell
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IMO, some of the posters in this thread might have been technical consultants for this cartoonist...
I'm starting to feel proud of myself. You also just reminded me that I'm behind on 'Gotham. I'm feeling a binge night.
Grayfox
US Veteran
Zombie thread! 
Bringing back the dead accepted and I'll add this little bit. I own a 1982 6" 586 no dash and a 1975 6" Python. I've shot these two guns side by side, rested off the bench at 25 yards for accuracy. Both are excellent shooters. However, the Python always wins, but not by a great deal.
OTOH: I have a 1953 6 1/2" pre-27 that'll out shoot 'em both.
With the current prices on Pythons, I just don't see where this is a legitimate question any more.
Bringing back the dead accepted and I'll add this little bit. I own a 1982 6" 586 no dash and a 1975 6" Python. I've shot these two guns side by side, rested off the bench at 25 yards for accuracy. Both are excellent shooters. However, the Python always wins, but not by a great deal.
OTOH: I have a 1953 6 1/2" pre-27 that'll out shoot 'em both.
With the current prices on Pythons, I just don't see where this is a legitimate question any more.
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Pig Hunter
Member
A friend let me shoot his Python a lot. It was a 6" type. One of the guys in my AF flight got a 4" 586. The 4" felt more muzzle heavy to me. If somebody was to give me one or the other, I'd take the Python. For what I've actually bought , N frame 2 to 1 over K and no L. ymmv
My 686 plus is my favorite handgun I own. Period. I wouldn't trade it for a python. As nice as it shoots I probably wouldn't trade it for two.
Zombie thread!
......
OTOH: I have a 1953 6 1/2" pre-27 that'll out shoot 'em both.
I picked up my 1955 6 1/2 .357 this afternoon. I don't know the history of it so will have to wait for a gunsmith to check it out, but the double action dry fires almost identical to my 686.
BigBill
Absent Comrade
My '75 colt Python 357/6" barrel was awesome. I could ping any small rock on the 100yd berm. I traded it off to start a business i was dumb but the business made money.
I like my 357 Redhawk, 357 security six, my 357 s&w m28/m27 but still miss my Python.
I like my 357 Redhawk, 357 security six, my 357 s&w m28/m27 but still miss my Python.
I've owned several pythons over the years. They're nice guns, but I feel they've become way overpriced. And actually even for the same price, I prefer the 686's. I've always felt the S&W lockwork is way stronger than the pythons.
Bulldawg Dad
Member
I currently own three 686's (2.5", 4", and 6") and have owned several others. Absolutely my favorite revolver model. I've never owned a Colt Python so I can't speak intelligently about them. I would like to own one, not to shoot, but just to show people. Kinda like a t-shirt I once saw that said "I show my friends my Kimber but I show my enemies my Glock"
Hi,
Just in case anyone's interested in how these compare in terms of int'l level target competition, here is a nice photo chart that pits the Python, the 686, the 586, and a .S&W 14 up against each other. Ammo used is mostly match grade 38 Special.
All fired at 25M, offhand bullseye style, by a Swedish competitor.
I believe the results were published in Visier or one of the other Euro journals.
http://ake_nordin.ownit.nu/frilans/38special/index.html
Best Regards,
Jim
Just in case anyone's interested in how these compare in terms of int'l level target competition, here is a nice photo chart that pits the Python, the 686, the 586, and a .S&W 14 up against each other. Ammo used is mostly match grade 38 Special.
All fired at 25M, offhand bullseye style, by a Swedish competitor.
I believe the results were published in Visier or one of the other Euro journals.
http://ake_nordin.ownit.nu/frilans/38special/index.html
Best Regards,
Jim
Without actually measuring, it sort of looks like the Python May have slightly edged the M14. The 586'follows really closely. The 4" 686 is expected to be a little less accurate at that distance due to sight radius. From a Ransom rest, there shouldn't be much difference. Interesting.
Python vs 686
I have one python and several 686s. The python is a beautiful handgun, and I will never sell it. That being said, I really dislike the way the python's trigger stacks in double action. I've never been able to get used to it.
I have one python and several 686s. The python is a beautiful handgun, and I will never sell it. That being said, I really dislike the way the python's trigger stacks in double action. I've never been able to get used to it.
The Python's cylinder rotates clockwise. The 686 goes counter-clockwise. In the northern hemisphere, the force of the rotation of the earth assists the Python 's action, making it smoother.
Also, the Python has left hand rifling twist. This also takes advantage of the earth's rotation, and also explains why so many great curveball pitchers were left handed.
Of course, our military struggled with their issued Colts when empire building in the southern hemisphere, and for the same reason, little if any baseball is played south of the equator.
So that's why the Python is the more desirable handgun.
Also, the Python has left hand rifling twist. This also takes advantage of the earth's rotation, and also explains why so many great curveball pitchers were left handed.
Of course, our military struggled with their issued Colts when empire building in the southern hemisphere, and for the same reason, little if any baseball is played south of the equator.
So that's why the Python is the more desirable handgun.
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swagmeister
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Pythons are great guns; I have owned a few over the years. I just prefer the L Frames (586/686). I currently do not own a Python but I have a 586-4 with 4" barrel and have had several L Frames, all with no problems whatsoever and were great shooters. The ongoing debate about Python's being fragile and going out of time quickly seems to be valid for some people. Also, there are very few Python gunsmiths left and the ones who work on them supposedly have long waiting periods. I would not trust sending a Python back to Colt to be worked on because just my luck they would go bankrupt (again!) and my gun would sit on a table somewhere for who knows how long. Just my opinion for what little value it is.
Trooper224
Member
If you're going to use it for any form of defense you need to train with it. Training induces wear and tear on any machine, which requires periodic maintenance. Guns that are long out of production can be problematic in terms of obtaining spare parts and finding people really qualified to work on them. This is especially true for a gun like the Python. All of this, combined with the Pythons ridiculously prohibitive cost, removes it from contention as a practical weapon. The 686 is the clear choice. It's still in production and more easily and readily serviced. The Python has become a collectable safe queen.
xfarfuldog
Member
I have 2 Pythons an 3 686's. All in 4 inch I carried one of the Pythons on duty for 10 years. Love them all but the Pythons come up on top every time. That being said I mostly shoot a 66 or a 3" model 65 now.
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I agree, but you failed to discuss the how the moon phase factors in.
I've never cared for the looks or handling characteristics of the Colt Python or the L-frame 357 revolvers. All are unnecessarily muzzle heavy. And I thought S&W's going with a full-lug barrel at the time was just a blatant ripoff of the Colt Python's looks, sans the ventilated rib.
To me, the N-frame was a far superior platform to the 586/686 L-frame for .357 Magnum usage. And the K-frame Magnums, though inferior in durability to the L-frame, have the L-frames beaten hands down in carry ability.
I know there are a lot of you who favor the L-frame. To each their own!
To me, the N-frame was a far superior platform to the 586/686 L-frame for .357 Magnum usage. And the K-frame Magnums, though inferior in durability to the L-frame, have the L-frames beaten hands down in carry ability.
I know there are a lot of you who favor the L-frame. To each their own!
Ribwizzard
Member
I've been playing with revolvers for 30 some years now and will say that my recent purchase of a 686-1 , after a good cleaning and new ejector rod and spring, is the slickest, smoothest, sharpshooting, rooting toting darn six shooter I've ever handled . I've got 4 686's of different configurations, but seriously, this thing is sweet.
$500 plus $150 in parts/new grips, and I am happier than snot.
$500 plus $150 in parts/new grips, and I am happier than snot.
Attachments
I recently acquired a 4" 686 after not having one for over 10 years. While I've had a 6" 686 since the 80s I'm kinda surprised how much I'm liking the 4". I don't remember liking it as much when I had one before. I did carry the original 4" on duty for several years but recall not liking it as much as the 66 I traded in on it. I then carried a 6" N frame for many years which may be why the 4" seems so small and light to me now.
I had a co-worker that carried a 6" Python. I have shot it several times. I never liked the stacking of the double action but that may be because Smiths is what I cut my teeth on.
As I recall Smithons were fairly common at one time. I haven't seen one in a good many years.
I kinda wish I had some snake guns in my safe but I still prefer the Smith action.
I had a co-worker that carried a 6" Python. I have shot it several times. I never liked the stacking of the double action but that may be because Smiths is what I cut my teeth on.
As I recall Smithons were fairly common at one time. I haven't seen one in a good many years.
I kinda wish I had some snake guns in my safe but I still prefer the Smith action.
Loyaljeeper
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I didn't even see the fascination with Pythons 20 years ago when they were under $500. I certainly don't see the appeal of them now.
cowboy4evr
Member
I don't own a python . Have all Smiths . That said , if I could afford a python I would buy one . I have never been one to just go on what others say . I need to find out for myself . That said , I truly think Colt will come back with the Python . It won't be the same as the older ones . They came back with the Cobra and I just have a strong feeling that a Python is " in the works " . I have handled one , only once . It belonged to a guy that was a retired Az DPS officer . He told me that when he was in training one day at the range another trainee walked up to him and asked if he wanted to trade his Smith model 19 for the other guys Python . He made the trade , carried the Python his entire LE career . It is in real need of some TLC now . The right side finish is almost completely gone , but that Python is still his one and only , he trusts his life to it yet today . So , yes I am open minded about Pythons and their future . Regards , Paul
gman51
Member
I have a 4" Python and I have a S&W 627-5. I had a Ruger GP100 Match Champion.
IMO the Python is a collector item. There will be no more made, the action is super and it is a beauty in its own right. It is like a Mona Lisa.
When I bought my 627-5 I was disappointed in the trigger action feel right out of the box. I adjusted the tension spring and oiled up the action and now I consider the action right up there with the Python though it does feel different.
I feel the Match Champion is like a tank centerfold. Beautiful and well built however I could not shoot it with great accuracy. I sold it after buying the 627.
I shot all three in a comparison shoot. For accuracy and feel the 627 was first then the Python very close 2nd and the Match Champion was last place in this match. For me gun to hand fit means it all for accuracy for me.
I will probably never sell the Python because it is sort of a Mona Lisa to me. I seldom shoot it but it is eye candy to me.
I have never shot or even held a 686 or a 27 or a 28. From what I have read all three are outstanding handguns. I believe the S&W 27 is probably the Python's greatest completion all around.
For really good quality shooter, keeping in mind the more affordable pricing, I would buy the S&W 686 or the Ruger GP100. Pricewise and all considered I believe the 686 or the GP100 would be the two highest ranking choices. The GP100 is considered the toughest most durable built 357 made today. The Python would be the safe queen for nostalgia and beauty. Occasional shooting just because you can.
I am not a fan boy of any gun brand. The brand isn't what I shoot or depend on. What meets my needs is what I am a fan boy of. That might be a Colt or S&W or Ruger or even a lesser expensive brand as long as it fulfills the need.
I heard so much about the FN 5.7 accuracy but I couldn't hit the barn door if I was standing inside the barn. It's all about what works for you not someone else.
I suggest if you can find a Python in fair to good condition for $800 that you jump on it. I seldom if ever see a Python going for that cheap. I am seeing decent looking so called shooters on GB priced around 2 grand right now. BTW The CEO of Colt has said they will not bring back the Python because the expense to make it today would be so great that few could buy one. Colt no longer has the gunsmiths of old to bring back the Python.
IMO the Python is a collector item. There will be no more made, the action is super and it is a beauty in its own right. It is like a Mona Lisa.
When I bought my 627-5 I was disappointed in the trigger action feel right out of the box. I adjusted the tension spring and oiled up the action and now I consider the action right up there with the Python though it does feel different.
I feel the Match Champion is like a tank centerfold. Beautiful and well built however I could not shoot it with great accuracy. I sold it after buying the 627.
I shot all three in a comparison shoot. For accuracy and feel the 627 was first then the Python very close 2nd and the Match Champion was last place in this match. For me gun to hand fit means it all for accuracy for me.
I will probably never sell the Python because it is sort of a Mona Lisa to me. I seldom shoot it but it is eye candy to me.
I have never shot or even held a 686 or a 27 or a 28. From what I have read all three are outstanding handguns. I believe the S&W 27 is probably the Python's greatest completion all around.
For really good quality shooter, keeping in mind the more affordable pricing, I would buy the S&W 686 or the Ruger GP100. Pricewise and all considered I believe the 686 or the GP100 would be the two highest ranking choices. The GP100 is considered the toughest most durable built 357 made today. The Python would be the safe queen for nostalgia and beauty. Occasional shooting just because you can.
I am not a fan boy of any gun brand. The brand isn't what I shoot or depend on. What meets my needs is what I am a fan boy of. That might be a Colt or S&W or Ruger or even a lesser expensive brand as long as it fulfills the need.
I heard so much about the FN 5.7 accuracy but I couldn't hit the barn door if I was standing inside the barn. It's all about what works for you not someone else.
I suggest if you can find a Python in fair to good condition for $800 that you jump on it. I seldom if ever see a Python going for that cheap. I am seeing decent looking so called shooters on GB priced around 2 grand right now. BTW The CEO of Colt has said they will not bring back the Python because the expense to make it today would be so great that few could buy one. Colt no longer has the gunsmiths of old to bring back the Python.
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