JNewell: Opps! Guess I never wrote a piece on how to disassemble the Python. What I wrote was a piece which describes the internal workings of the Python. Check out this link:
http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=20347.
To disassemble the Python, use hollow ground screwdrivers which fit the screw. You don't want to scratch up that jewel of a gun or ruin the screw head because you're too cheap to buy a good screwdriver set.
Remove the grips. Now, slowly remove the screw on the right side of the frame. Don't let this drop as it has a spring and plunger in it. Withdrawl of this screw allows you to remove the cylinder.
Next, flip the gun back so that the left side is facing you. Remove the screws which secure the sideplate. Place a flat screwdriver into the frame (about where the V mainspring is) and you should be able to pop the sideplate off (this is unlike a Smith & Wesson where you tap the plate off). Removal of the sideplate exposes the internal lockwork (suggest at this point you study a printout version of the link above).
For further disassembly, compress the mainspring and disconnect it from the hammer strut. This allows you to withdraw the mainspring. I remove the hand next by slipping a screwdriver in and prying it up. Squeeze the hammer back such that the sear clears the trigger and lift the hammer/sear out of the frame. Use a pin punch and drive the pin which retains the rebound lever out. This allows removal of the rebound lever. Now, you may lift the trigger. The safety and safety lever may come out with the trigger. To remove the bolt (cylinder stop), use a small screwdriver and disengage the bolt spring (be sure to place your hand over it to keep it from going into orbit). Remove the screw which holds the bolt to the frame. This allows you to remove the bolt.
Turning to the sideplate, the cylinder release should just slide off. There's a spring behind it which fits into the sideplate. Besure to take that out too.
I'll discuss disassembly of the cylinder another day (and reassembly).