The Python is not a weakling in terms of .357s and I'm not a fan of the
Python. It'll hold up as well as a Smith 586/686 for gentlemanly firing
of the .357.
Where the criticism comes in for the Python, from MY POINT OF VIEW, is
that the lockwork doesn't really hold up in fast and continuous double action
shooting, i.e. the timing goes out faster than a Smith. In other words,
non-gentlemanly use.
And it's from DA use that proves the Smith or also now the Ruger GP 100.
The 586/686, Ruger GP 100 and the Python are basically the same frame
size but the lockworks for the Smith and Ruger are more accommodating.
Just an FYI, usually the speed loaders for all three mentioned revolvers
work as will the leather basically fit the three.
The Smith 586 in 1980 was to take on the Python, which was already
waning in popularity because of price, and the GP 100 was Ruger's
response to the Smith 586.
Oh, gosh of gosh, why did Smith and Ruger have to emulate the
heavy lug of the Python on most of their mdoels!!!!!!!