Curious - Colt Python contradictions?

M

mckysdad

New member
Hi all-

The other night I somehow ended up reading old threads of TFL until pretty late. In the process, I found out something interesting about revolvers. When asked about which one to buy or which one they own, most people will mention an S&W -often the 686/686P-, or a Ruger.
But- when making lists of dream guns which one would really like to buy if one could, I believe that the only revolver mentioned (and it came as a frequent answer) was the Colt Python, 4" or 6".

So why is that? Why do people dream of the Colt Python but buy a 686?

Is it because of reliability problems on the Python -I heard something about limited lifetime due to some timing problems?

Just curious...

Btw- after reading all these threads about revolvers suddenly I am wondering if I shouldn't try one out too :)

[This message has been edited by mckysdad (edited February 13, 2000).]
 
I would say the considerable difference in price. The Python's a super gun, but many folks may not want to shell out that kind of money.
 
The Python is probably one of the nicest looking and shooting revolvers ever produced. Maybe the thought of wagging one around on a daily basis and giving it the beating it would get is not a pleasent idea for some people. A lot of money to scratch up. Just my two cents worth. :)
 
An observation, admittedly prejudiced: The trigger pull on a Python is as different from a S&W66 or 686 as night and day.To me the S&W is much easier to master for double-action rapid fire.
The legend of the Python was earned from the beauty and workmanship of the revolver. It has a very smooth trigger pull but I dont like it. The rifling in the Python seens produces great accuracy, but I still like S&W.

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Better days to be,

Ed
 
Let me preface this by saying I am a big Colt fan and Python owner. The reasons I bought the Python over the S&W came down to name recognition, upbringing and value. The Python is a part of our culture, (ever see the Dirty Harry when the Python made it's film debut?). Even though the bad guys had it, I loved that gun. Today it is harder to find a nice Python than one of the others, hence the cost. But this also leads me to believe that the gun will retain it's value in the future, especially since it is no longer being made. Finally, my dad and uncles had some Colts growing up, so it connects me to them, kinda the way Fords and John Deere tractors hold a special spot as well.

Truth be told I shoot my Dan Wesson more than the Python. However, anytime I go to the range and open the case and start shooting the Python and Diamondbacks, people stop by to look and ask to shoot. That kind of respect/interest is what separates the Python from other guns.

Good luck in your future shooting!
 
Used to own two Pythons. I can tell you other than the slightly smoother trigger pulls, they are NOT worth the money. Quality has been really bad on the recent one I purchased, malfunction right after I took it home. The old one did function correctly. As far as accuracy goes, my Ruger GP100 outshoot the Pythons and also my SW 686 powerport. I sold both my Pythons and the 686 powerport.
 
Hi,could not help but throw my two cents in here. As a Python owner,I have 3,and 1 Anaconda. I have been very pleased with the Python,especially the 6". I think there is a bit of mystique about them,they are no doubt one of the most intimidating and handsome handguns made(in my humble opinion).Yes they usually come at a substancially higher price,but I have never had a problem paying for higher quality if that is what you get.I believe all handguns are unique,and there is always lemons in everything from toothbrushes to automobiles. I do have to disagree with the gentleman earlier about the S&W 66 vs the Python,and the trigger pull being better for follow up and double action shooting. I have a S&W 66 and I love it! but personally I do not see much difference at all in the trigger pull etc,in fact if I had to choose I would probably go with the Python. But like I said each gun is unique,and that is just this humble man's opinion. Anyway I am pleased with my Pythons,that is all that matters.PS..You got to admit they are cool!!!!!!...PJ
 
SnakeLover, I don't believe the Python came in .44 Mag when the first Dirty Harry film came out...

I never had any timing problem on my Python. I thoroughly enjoyed shooting it, and found it to be very accurate. I guess mine was made in the 1970s...

The S&Ws generally seemed to have a bit crisper trigger-break.

Somehow, the Python just seemed "too purty" for everyday use. Sort of a "Sunday Go To Meetin'" gun. Dress-up wear...

I found out that when pushing myself to my best speed, I could get more center-hits with my GP 100 than with the Python, a Model 66, or a tuned Model 48. So, a buddy of mine now owns the Python...

:), Art
 
The Python was the top of the line for the old style Colt DA revolvers. They were all hand fitted (which was the reason for the price) and had much better DA and SA trigger pulls than the run-of-mine Colts.

But they still "stacked", which is term used when a long, usually DA, trigger pull becomes harder the further back it gets. S&Ws don't do that, and if you want to pull the sideplates of both a Colt and S&W you will see why. The S&W has a little cam on the trigger, mating with a similar surface on the hammer, that takes over and keeps the trigger pull constant. Though often harder in pounds than the Colt pull, it is very consistent, which is more important to good DA shooting than pull weight.

Jim
 
You're right, the Python isn't a .44 caliber gun. The Dirty Harry movie was Magnum Force, the 2nd of the 5 movies. May be worth the price of a rental to see that "purty" gun!! :)
 
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