Colt Python

Photo by Ken Lunde

The last time we looked at a gun on these pages, it was all about function. This time, we're going to look at the Colt Python, a revolver that is all about essence.

Built on the old .41 frame, Colt wanted to create the ultimate .357 magnum revolver, undoubtedly spurred on by the affluence and excitement of post-WWII America. They slicked up their tried and true action, put on a swanky full-underlug barrel with a ventilated sight rib and a legend was born.

The Python is notable for is excellent finish with a deep "royal blue" being the most common. It was also made with a bright nickel finish and later in stainless steel. People rave about the action of the Python as well. It is roller-bearing smooth with just the slightest hint of stack at the end of the double-action pull. Single action is crisp and light and darned near perfect.

Over the years it was made with 2", 4", 6", and 8" barrels to serve a variety of needs. The 4" and 6" are the most common. The barrels have a decreasing radius bore which means it's smaller at the muzzle than at the throat. The difference is very slight, but it is why Pythons are so amazingly accurate and why they often exhibit no loss in accuracy if the barrel is accidentally ringed due to a squib load.

The 2" went after the self-defense/plainclothes police crowd and competed against the 2.5" Smith & Wesson Model 19. The 8" version was built with an eye towards the hunting crowd. The problem is that with a gun as pretty and as costly as a Python, few people were inclined to submit their guns to the riggers of daily carry or the game field.

There are also questions about the Python's suitability as a piece of life-saving gear. All machines have a weakness and the one with the Python is a Catch 22. That action which I raved about is fairly weak. Something as minor as a drop onto a table top can knock it out of time. Because the secret to the precision and beauty of the Python is handfitting, a gunsmith can't simply drop a few new parts in and expect minor fitting. For example, most 'smiths have set prices for Smith and Wesson and Ruger repair work. It's not uncommon to see Pythons listed as "by the hour" because they could be working on that beast for quite some time in order to get it's delicate parts moving properly.

Now, for range use, light duty carry (not uniformed police or a ranch hand's pistol - both situations which tend to bang guns and see lots of abuse), and home defense, I wouldn't hesitate. And, since the 2" offering is so darned cool, I'd just have to carry it sometimes, provided I ever find one at a decent price. If you find a used one, make sure you check the timing. You do this by cocking the hammer with one hand while putting slight pressure on the cylinder with your other hand. Then, pull the trigger and let the hammer down slowly while feeling for the cylinder to lock into place. Colts don't reach full-lock up until the trigger is pulled, so it's easy to think one is out of time when it is actually just fine.

In the end, the Python is an elegant revolver, a product of the progressive engineering minds of 1950's America. It ceased to be a regular production item some time ago, but it will occasionally pop back up as a Custom Shot offering. As we progress farther and farther from hand work, tools like the Python become less common. They are never cheap but for the true handgunner and fine weapons connoisseur they are worth every penny.

Photo from ColtForum.com