slabside2
Member
towards the end of Colts production of D. A. handguns if they started turning out guns like S+W does now MIM parts cocked barrels finishes coming off they would never be as collectable as the are now.
Why do Colt snakes sell for so much more than comparable S&W's
- Thread starter Paul12644
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M2MikeGolf
US Veteran
The 1911 was designed to be that way. Many people don't understand that. Get them tight like you think they should be, and they begin having problems functioning. Colt may have some problems with quality control, but that ain't one of them. I carried Colt made M16 A1/A2/A4s and M4s for years, they were very well made military grade weapons. Read about the pistol trials that led up to the adoption of the M1911 and you will look at that weapon in a whole new light. It's one of the reasons I will never own a modern "tweaked" M1911 variant; most have gone beyond the original design too far.
On the other side of the coin, I think S&W always made the best M1917 .45 ACP revolver. It's apples and oranges really. In the end, when it comes to revolvers, I will always go for S&Ws. If I want a good M1911, it's Colt, and if it doesn't rattle out of the box, I'd send it back.
I personally love to shoot guns
I get as much joy out of searching for my next one
I have no tatoos but I have thought of a Rampant Colt and a S&W logo (doubt I will) but I think this shows my affection for both
That being said I really cant explain but when I find a nice S&W at what I feel like is fair pricing I am elated I am excited I will probably own it I can be a spoiled brat
When I fine a Colt with similar circumstances multiply this by 10
There will also probably be a multiplier in the price
contrary to previous post it happens much less with Colts ( have a harder time finding them)
Ironically a S&W that has been abused rusted altered engraved on will sit
The similar Colt will sell quickly someone will refurbish it.In thier own way I assume sometimes good some times bad
Hank
I get as much joy out of searching for my next one
I have no tatoos but I have thought of a Rampant Colt and a S&W logo (doubt I will) but I think this shows my affection for both
That being said I really cant explain but when I find a nice S&W at what I feel like is fair pricing I am elated I am excited I will probably own it I can be a spoiled brat
When I fine a Colt with similar circumstances multiply this by 10
There will also probably be a multiplier in the price
contrary to previous post it happens much less with Colts ( have a harder time finding them)
Ironically a S&W that has been abused rusted altered engraved on will sit
The similar Colt will sell quickly someone will refurbish it.In thier own way I assume sometimes good some times bad
Hank
Backlighting
Member
Better value for your money are the S&W wheelguns. IMO
I dont think there is any question about that
S&Ws are a much better "Value" these days
A 586 or 686 will do all that a Python will do for much less
except cause a stampede to get it
Hank
Captain Beyond
Member
I've owned and worked on Colt Single Action, pre-wars, since the sixties and they're the only Colts except for a New Service from 1927 nickle 44 Russian 5 inch shipped to Fort Worth during the Depression. It ends there. Smith revolvers are the king to me. I purchased(when I had an FFL in the seventies) two Pythons for some customers. Both blue one six inch and one four inch. Out of the box they were out of time. Nuff said. I'll take S&W revolvers in all frame sizes any day. The only Colt revolver that did it's work belong to Jack Ruby.
No apologies and enjoy your favorites. I finally found my Mdl.49 blue bodyguard and just as happy as can be.
No apologies and enjoy your favorites. I finally found my Mdl.49 blue bodyguard and just as happy as can be.
I am not surprised this threaded drifted to S&W vs COLT. That was not the question.
Python's are priced at what "people" are willing to pay for them, no mystery. Silly prices for sure, but they aren't made anymore.
Python's are priced at what "people" are willing to pay for them, no mystery. Silly prices for sure, but they aren't made anymore.
You're right Cochise. Last year I spent approximately $920 for two Colt revolvers. Now that won't buy me a Python in so-so condition, but for me that was a lot of money for two .38 Special revolvers. But they are very nice revolvers and I wanted them in my safe.
I was willing to pay that amount and I did.
And I do consider myself to be a S&W revolver man first and foremost.
Checkman, what models were they?
Pictures?
I purchased a Colt Officer Model Target with the 6" Heavy Barrel (Mfd. 1941) and a .38 Special Colt Trooper with the 4" barrel (mfd. 1960) and target hammer. Here are my previous posts for both revolvers. The Trooper thread has multiple photos by me so be sure to scroll down. Actually with both threads. My photos got better. LOL.
http://smith-wessonforum.com/lounge/219220-4-colt-trooper-38-spl.html
http://smith-wessonforum.com/lounge/217981-colt-officer-model-target.html
xx78
Member
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I feel just the opposite. I think the Python is one of most beautiful revolvers made. It was my first handgun purchase way back in the early 80s.
jtcarm
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This thread started the wheels turning:
We all know the .41 magnum failed it's intended purpose as an LE handgun/round. Bill Jordan wrote that he thought the police loading was what he had wanted, but not the full-size, N-frame revolver that's heavier than a .44 magnum. He also wrote that he'd been naive to think that Smith and Wesson would tool up to produce a whole new frame for a new cartridge. He must have envisioned something around the L-frame, though I don't know if that frame/cylinder is large enough to accommodate a 6-chambered .41
After pondering the fate of the Snakes, now I wonder why the heck didn't they take the project to Colt, who originated the .41 caliber and was already manufacturing .41 frames (the I frame)?
Even if they had, Colt was probably so full of themselves in 1961, with the 1911 contract and M16 right around they would've turned it down (that's pretty much their track record.)
A .41 magnum Colt probably wouldn't have survived, either, but just think how many more Pythons and other I frames would be out there, and in .41 mag (I happen to know the Python will handle it, an LGS used to convert them to .41 and couldn't turn them out fast enough.)
Then S&W would've been forced to design the L frame a tad bigger to produce a 6-round .41 mag (or better, now, a 10mm). Ah, the little "what-ifs".
Of course, considering Elmer Keith was involved in the design, it's a wonder Smith didn't end up producing a Howdah.
Not that I've got anything against .60-caliber double-pistols. I just don't have anyplace to park an elephant
We all know the .41 magnum failed it's intended purpose as an LE handgun/round. Bill Jordan wrote that he thought the police loading was what he had wanted, but not the full-size, N-frame revolver that's heavier than a .44 magnum. He also wrote that he'd been naive to think that Smith and Wesson would tool up to produce a whole new frame for a new cartridge. He must have envisioned something around the L-frame, though I don't know if that frame/cylinder is large enough to accommodate a 6-chambered .41
After pondering the fate of the Snakes, now I wonder why the heck didn't they take the project to Colt, who originated the .41 caliber and was already manufacturing .41 frames (the I frame)?
Even if they had, Colt was probably so full of themselves in 1961, with the 1911 contract and M16 right around they would've turned it down (that's pretty much their track record.)
A .41 magnum Colt probably wouldn't have survived, either, but just think how many more Pythons and other I frames would be out there, and in .41 mag (I happen to know the Python will handle it, an LGS used to convert them to .41 and couldn't turn them out fast enough.)
Then S&W would've been forced to design the L frame a tad bigger to produce a 6-round .41 mag (or better, now, a 10mm). Ah, the little "what-ifs".
Of course, considering Elmer Keith was involved in the design, it's a wonder Smith didn't end up producing a Howdah.
Not that I've got anything against .60-caliber double-pistols. I just don't have anyplace to park an elephant
breakingbad
Member
You never shot the Dan Wesson .44 then... by far the most accurate DA revolver at the time.
breakingbad
Member
Cotl Pythons with no alpha in the serial number are the most desirable, followed by SN with the letter E first, and then with the E last. The Exxxx started showing up in 1969, and xxxxE in 1975. The golden years for manufacturing the Python were those that are pre-alpha, and also up to about 1975.
There are NOT hundreds showing up for sale every week, and it is NOT BS that they fetch so much money, any more so than guitars and muscle cars from the 60's fetch so much money. They don't make 'em that way any more, and baby boomers have the cash and the nostalgia to look for and buy the best and most beautiful industrial design objects made from the 60's. And the Python is one of the best combat handguns ever made. This also includes S&W revolvers with pinned barrels, recessed cylinders, firing pin on hammer, case hardened hammer/triggers. Even "pre-lock" S&W are starting to become more valuable.
But a stock Python is such a pleasure to shoot. You would never regret owning one.
There are NOT hundreds showing up for sale every week, and it is NOT BS that they fetch so much money, any more so than guitars and muscle cars from the 60's fetch so much money. They don't make 'em that way any more, and baby boomers have the cash and the nostalgia to look for and buy the best and most beautiful industrial design objects made from the 60's. And the Python is one of the best combat handguns ever made. This also includes S&W revolvers with pinned barrels, recessed cylinders, firing pin on hammer, case hardened hammer/triggers. Even "pre-lock" S&W are starting to become more valuable.
But a stock Python is such a pleasure to shoot. You would never regret owning one.
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lhump1961
US Veteran
Sometimes I wonder why a gun guy (or gal) would run down a good gun just out of preference. I don't own a Python any more but when I did I found it to be a high quality, beautiful revolver. The only reason I let it go was the grip...Smith K and L frames just fit me better.
Having said that I don't think it was better or worse than my beloved Smith's...just different. My revolver of choice is Smith but I have nothing bad to say about Colt...an American made quality gun...what's not to like?
As for prices? All things are worth what you can get on a given day.
Having said that I don't think it was better or worse than my beloved Smith's...just different. My revolver of choice is Smith but I have nothing bad to say about Colt...an American made quality gun...what's not to like?
As for prices? All things are worth what you can get on a given day.
Stirling
Member
I think the Python is an awesome looking revolver, particularly in blue. I always wanted one but bought a model 28 as my first handgun. It's still my favourite revolver.
I later found a gorgeous 6" blue Python for 4 times what I paid for my Smith and had my shooting buddy buy it because he was even more obsessed with the Python.
Having now shot both handguns I prefer the action of the Smith although the Python is buttery smooth. The M28 is no slacker in terms of accuracy either.
One day at a fancy shooting range the range captain was setting up his custom Python with large competition sights and a 6" tube. My wife shot rings around him with my 4" Smith. He kept checking and adjusting his sights! LOL That day she cleaned us out too.
I love my N-frame Smiths and would love more for sure. Still wouldn't mind a Python and Detective Special though, maybe a few more other Colts. Interesting insights into the quality of the Colts though.
I later found a gorgeous 6" blue Python for 4 times what I paid for my Smith and had my shooting buddy buy it because he was even more obsessed with the Python.
Having now shot both handguns I prefer the action of the Smith although the Python is buttery smooth. The M28 is no slacker in terms of accuracy either.
One day at a fancy shooting range the range captain was setting up his custom Python with large competition sights and a 6" tube. My wife shot rings around him with my 4" Smith. He kept checking and adjusting his sights! LOL That day she cleaned us out too.
I love my N-frame Smiths and would love more for sure. Still wouldn't mind a Python and Detective Special though, maybe a few more other Colts. Interesting insights into the quality of the Colts though.
I own a Colt Gold Cup Trophy. It's only about six years. I wouldn't trade it or sell it. It's a keeper It is very accurate, Fit & finish is tight.
I've owned a S&W K-22 N.I.B. also a beautiful gun. I wish I had it back.
I could be wrong here but the Colt's cost more than Smith because there were less made. No longer produced. In Vietnam we all had Colt M-16's.
That may have made more of use Colt fans. The Jamming problems in the 67-68 era was because they changer the Powder. Not because it was Colt's fault.
Colt under new management didn't want to sell to the public anymore.. They were making so much money with Government contracts. Selling to the public just wasted their time.
The Brady Bill killed the High Cap. mags & Flash Hiders. Who wants to buy a AR-15 with out the Flash hider & Bayonet Lug?
I also believe at one time both Colt & S&W filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy??
S&W had some major Management problems & it turn off a lot of the buying public from purchasing Smith products. Some individuals believed S&W were taking short cuts.
Supply & demand,
Colt made less products. Fewer on the market. I believe at one time they went on strike. If you can't get one & you want one the prices go up. People like the Horse Logo? Buyers believed Colt made a better Firearm even though that was not true.
Example
Hostess Twinkies,
You can't buy one, except on EBAY, the price goes up.
I don't know if it has anything to do with Quality.
Colt & Smith are pretty much equal.
Buyers have had problems with both.
My $.02
IFFV
I've owned a S&W K-22 N.I.B. also a beautiful gun. I wish I had it back.
I could be wrong here but the Colt's cost more than Smith because there were less made. No longer produced. In Vietnam we all had Colt M-16's.
That may have made more of use Colt fans. The Jamming problems in the 67-68 era was because they changer the Powder. Not because it was Colt's fault.
Colt under new management didn't want to sell to the public anymore.. They were making so much money with Government contracts. Selling to the public just wasted their time.
The Brady Bill killed the High Cap. mags & Flash Hiders. Who wants to buy a AR-15 with out the Flash hider & Bayonet Lug?
I also believe at one time both Colt & S&W filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy??
S&W had some major Management problems & it turn off a lot of the buying public from purchasing Smith products. Some individuals believed S&W were taking short cuts.
Supply & demand,
Colt made less products. Fewer on the market. I believe at one time they went on strike. If you can't get one & you want one the prices go up. People like the Horse Logo? Buyers believed Colt made a better Firearm even though that was not true.
Example
Hostess Twinkies,
You can't buy one, except on EBAY, the price goes up.
I don't know if it has anything to do with Quality.
Colt & Smith are pretty much equal.
Buyers have had problems with both.
My $.02
IFFV
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Stophel
Member
I just don't see Colts anywhere. When I go to gunshows, Colts are few and far between. I see the occasional Dick Special, the rare New Service, and the odd Police Positive or similar models. All VERY high priced (to me) That's it. I have seen ONE Diamondback in my whole life. Troopers and Lawmen (I could have bought one recently...) seem very rare.
Maybe it's just because I've not been looking for them, but I sure haven't noticed very many.
Maybe it's just because I've not been looking for them, but I sure haven't noticed very many.
I think there are two reasons for Colt prices going out of sight :
1. Hype. People that have them tend to talk it up on gun forums, how much they are going up in price, how great they are,etc. If there were no gun forums, they would not be going up in price so much. Some people buy into this hype and just have to get one before they get out of reach.
2. People are buying them for investments. They are putting them in the safe and waiting to make a profit. They might as well be krugerrands because they aren't guns anymore. They are merely a means to make a profit. And I think a lot of people that really aren't interested in guns (only investments) are fueling some of the frenzy.
It's a shame really. Guns are made to be shot, not to sit in a safe until a buck can be made.
I paid $500 for a Python about 5 years ago. Didn't care for it so I sold it a few months later.
I do however like my Colt .45s, Woodsmans and Trooper .22.
1. Hype. People that have them tend to talk it up on gun forums, how much they are going up in price, how great they are,etc. If there were no gun forums, they would not be going up in price so much. Some people buy into this hype and just have to get one before they get out of reach.
2. People are buying them for investments. They are putting them in the safe and waiting to make a profit. They might as well be krugerrands because they aren't guns anymore. They are merely a means to make a profit. And I think a lot of people that really aren't interested in guns (only investments) are fueling some of the frenzy.
It's a shame really. Guns are made to be shot, not to sit in a safe until a buck can be made.
I paid $500 for a Python about 5 years ago. Didn't care for it so I sold it a few months later.
I do however like my Colt .45s, Woodsmans and Trooper .22.
