Many people here think they understand my opinion on Pythons, but its not that simple, really its not. They are nice, and are expensive compared to other 357 revolvers. They are very high in demand, but they are not rare either. I would like to have another Python, as an investment, and because I know joe blo down the street saves for months just to have one, when to me, they are far less interesting. I can understand why someone would want one.
Part of me is having a hard time justifying dropping that much cash for one gun, when for the same price I could buy a used Ruger of Smith and Wesson .357, and still have money left over for a Beretta 92 fs inox and a Glock 19.
This is an interesting point. You could get a S&W 27, ANIB, and have money left over. Python prices are very high, and many people, even Colt guys, wonder if the "bubble" will burst. I am not convinced either way. They will not be made again, and that right there is very significant for their value. Are they the best DA revolver ever made? No, I don't think so. Are they great, are they in a "best of..." convo, yes they are, by many people's standards. Its possible that you may buy a bunch of other well regarded revolvers, and still want a Python. I've noticed that people who have several other well regarded revolvers, are less impressed with Pythons. I am in that crowd. Nothing wrong with them, but "Rolls Royce of revolvers" can be a stretch IMO.
Where can I find one for less than that? I was looking for a 6”, preferably stainless or nickel plated, with wooden grips. They have been going for around $2000 on gunbroker, and I have not been able to find one anywhere in Jersey.
Well 6in barrels are very common, but SS is more valuable than nickel. Keep in mind that Colt still does refinishes on Pythons, and fake boxes are coming from China. There are also many types of Colt Python grip copies. Be careful when buying one that is said to be NIB as many are "restored" to this status due to their demand and value.
I think you got a lot of good opinions and good info in this thread. Here is a good piece:
The Python is fantastic. It is also hideously expensive.
The early (pre-Mk III) Trooper and "357" are the same design without the heavy ribbed barrel. One of these can be found for maybe 1/3 of the Python tariff.
Just a thought...
For shooting, I get the same experience from my 4 or 5" (below) Pre MKIII Official Police with target grips in .38S. The action is the same and with a bit of work (now hard to find a good Colt DA man) you can get the same trigger feel.
They both are right on in what they say. The MKIII Troopers were made as a way to cheapen the economy adjustable sight 357, aka trooper. The older ones have a lock work that is nearly the same as a Python. The Pre 1970 troopers and the scarce 357 model (Saxon Pigs photo) are fantastic. (For the record, I think MKIIIs were actually first made in 1969, but that's not important). I have a 1954 Colt model 357 and a 1954/55 38 special trooper. Both are fantastic in every way. They are much less money, but they're not really cheap either - the secret is out about their excellent quality.
I think every serious revolver aficionado should have at least one Colt Python. I am but I don't-at least, not yet...
Maybe, but with what they're worth, why not sell high and buy a group of other great revolvers? I think thats the choice a revolver guy makes. Its the choice I made. But then again, mine was reblued, so it wasn't worth holding on to. Many great revolvers are far less than a Python. Buy a gun, not the hype.
The only smith even in the same league is the registered magnum.
Actually, a RM is head and shoulders above a Python. They have ZERO reliability issues, better sights, better grips, and match or surpass the fit and finish, which is one of the big Pythons claim to fame - fit and finish. Ever notice how they cost much more than a Python? A S&W 27 is really just as good if not better, in a lot of ways. Of course if you want a vent rib on a revolver, than S&W won't help you.
I finally got a S&W pre 27 from 1951 last year. I think it pretty much puts an end to this "nothing is in the same class" stuff that you hear. The sights are great, feel is great, great trigger. They are also often much less than Pythons. Tell me again about that "royal" blue finish
