We have been asking for a blued Python, and Colt has delivered. I am very fortunate to have gotten an advanced Copy from my friends at Colt. I took delivery about a month before SHOT and had the opportunity to run about 150 various rounds of .357 Magnum and .38 Special through it and all was well.
Aside from the finish, the blued Python is the same revolver as the stainless.
The Python comes standard with exceptional target sights. The rear is adjustable for windage and elevation, and the front has a user-changeable insert.
Python is externally very similar to the original, with the stocks being interchangeable, but some subtle changes bring this revolver up to date. Since 2020, Python has been made from a more robust material, with 30% material in the top strap. These updates have made this revolver stronger and more durable, able to handle the high-performance .357 Magnum ammunition, such as DoubleTap ammunition. The original Python is a fine revolver but had a reputation for being a little delicate, and a steady diet of Magnum ammunition could get the revolver out of time. Finding a gunsmith with the skills to correctly retime a Python is daunting.
My test sample double-action trigger was just over eight pounds with no perceived stacking, and the single-action trigger broke under three pounds. Colt has reengineered the trigger mechanism using fewer parts and making those parts a bit more robust. This will add to the reliability of the revolver and give you a more consistent trigger pull from cylinder to cylinder.
Is this revolver worth the Python roll mark? That is the question everyone has, and it seems there are some heated conflicts on that very idea. I have some experience with the older Pythons, and they are fine revolvers; however, with so many collectors hoarding them for so long, the price has inflated past what many folks can afford. I have wanted a shooter-grade Python for many years but cannot justify the cost, and if there is a problem having to find a gunsmith who can work on it, I have shot ones that belonged to friends and did without. Colt did what made sense, updated the Python, and reintroduced it. With the improvements, you now have the opportunity to buy a brand new Python that you will not feel guilt running that box of .357 Magnum ammunition through. Even though it has been redesigned, it is still a Python and performs as expected. So, yes, it is worthy of the rollmark. The older Pythons were built on milling machines, and the parts had to be hand-fit; the principal machining was over because that was what the technology at that time dictated. The new Pythons are now manufactured on CNC machines, a more precise and consistent process. So there is minimal hand fitting because technology has advanced, so you don’t need it. Manufacturers take advantage of advances in metallurgy and machining processes at every opportunity; it would be foolish for Colt not to. If you have been pining for that Colt Python but could not justify the collector prices, well, now is your chance to get your hands on one you can run hard and put up wet.
Accuracy
Specifications
- Barrel Description: 1:14 LH, 6 Groove
- Barrel Length: 4.25″
- Finish: Blued
- Frame Material: Stainless Steel
- Grips: Walnut Target Stocks
- Height: 5.5 in.
- Overall Length: 9.75″
- Weight: 42 oz.
- Width: 1.55 “
- Capacity: 6 rds.
- MSRP: $1499?
Acknowledgments
You Sir, are an enabler! 🙂 I love the new 3″ and 4″ Pythons, I’m very happy to see them in blue. Thank you for the well written update, it’s much appreciated.
Bob, I apologize my friend but that new blued Python is sexy. I appreciate your kind words.