The Allure of Colt Python: Why These Guns are So Desirable

The Colt Python is a classic double-action revolver that was first introduced in 1955 by Colt's Manufacturing Company. It is known for its sleek design, smooth trigger pull, and impressive accuracy, making it a popular choice among collectors and shooters.

One of the key features of Colt Python is its solid construction. It is made from high-quality materials, including a stainless steel frame and barrel, which makes it highly durable and resistant to corrosion. It also has a comfortable grip, which makes it easy to hold and shoot accurately.

Over the years, Colt Python has undergone several design changes. In the early 1970s, the design was modified to include a ventilated rib on the top of the barrel, which helped reduce the revolver's weight and improve accuracy. In the 1980s, the design was further modified to include a full-length underlug, which added additional weight to the barrel and improved balance.

In addition to its design changes, Colt Python has also undergone several changes in caliber. It was initially available in .38 Special, but later versions were also chambered in .357 Magnum. The .357 Magnum version was particularly popular, allowing shooters to use various ammunition, including both .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds.

Despite its many design changes, the Colt Python has remained a popular choice among collectors and shooters due to its reputation for reliability and accuracy. It is considered a classic firearm and is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Why are Colt Revolvers more expensive than Smith and Wesson Revolvers?

There are a few reasons why Colt Pythons may be more expensive than Smith & Wesson revolvers.

First, Colt Pythons are often considered more finely crafted and of higher quality than some of the Smith & Wesson models. They are made with higher quality materials, including a stainless steel frame and barrel, and are known for their smooth trigger pull and accuracy. This attention to detail and craftsmanship can contribute to their higher price point.

Second, Colt Pythons have a strong reputation and are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts, which can drive up their value. They are considered classic firearms and are often considered to be works of art as much as they are practical shooting tools. This can make them more expensive than other revolvers on the market.

Finally, Colt Pythons are relatively rare and are produced in lower quantities than some of the Smith & Wesson models. This can also contribute to their higher price point, as there is less supply and more demand for them.

Overall, the higher price of Colt Pythons is often due to their reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and rarity, as well as their popularity with collectors.

Colt Pythons are Unique

The Colt Python is a classic double-action revolver known for its sleek design, smooth trigger pull, and impressive accuracy. Some of the unique features of the Colt Python include:

1. Solid construction: The Colt Python is made from high-quality materials, including a stainless steel frame and barrel, which makes it highly durable and resistant to corrosion.
2. Comfortable grip: The grip of the Colt Python is designed to be comfortable and easy to hold, which helps to improve accuracy and control while shooting.
3. Ventilated rib: Some versions of the Colt Python feature a ventilated rib on the top of the barrel, which helps reduce the revolver's weight and improve accuracy.
4. Full-length underlug: Other versions of the Colt Python have a full-length underlug, which adds additional weight to the barrel and improves balance.
5. Versatility: The Colt Python is available in a variety of calibers, including .38 Special and .357 Magnum. This allows shooters to use a variety of different ammunition, depending on their needs.
6. Rarity: Colt Pythons are relatively rare and not produced in as high quantities as some other revolvers. This can make them more valuable and sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Overall, the Colt Python is a classic and highly regarded revolver that is known for its quality, craftsmanship, and versatility.

Different Models

There have been several models of Colt Python throughout its history. Some of the more notable models include:

1. Colt Python: The original Colt Python was introduced in 1955 and was chambered in .38 Special. It was known for its solid construction, smooth trigger pull, and impressive accuracy.
2. Colt Python with ventilated rib: In the early 1970s, the design of the Colt Python was modified to include a ventilated rib on the top of the barrel, which helped reduce the revolver's weight and improve accuracy.
3. Colt Python with full-length underlug: In the 1980s, the design of the Colt Python was further modified to include a full-length underlug, which added additional weight to the barrel and improved balance.
4. Colt Python Elite: The Python Elite was introduced in the late 1980s and featured a number of design improvements, including a fully adjustable rear sight, a beveled cylinder, and a polished finish.
5. Colt Python .357 Magnum: In addition to being chambered in .38 Special, the Colt Python was also available in .357 Magnum. This version allowed shooters to use various ammunition, including both .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds.
6. Colt Python Carry: The Python Carry was introduced in 2020 and is a more compact version of the original Python. It features a 4.25-inch barrel and a lightweight aluminum frame, making it more suitable for carry.

Overall, Colt Python has undergone several design changes throughout its history, with each new model building upon the strengths of the previous ones.

Finishes

The Colt Python has been available in various finishes throughout its history. Some of the more common finishes include:

1. Stainless steel: The original Colt Python was made from stainless steel, which gives it a silver-gray color and makes it highly resistant to corrosion.
2. Blued: Some versions of the Colt Python were finished with a blued finish, which gives the revolver a deep, rich blue color. The blued finish was achieved by applying a thin layer of protective lacquer to the metal surface.
3. Nickel: The Colt Python was also available in a nickel finish, which gives it a shiny, silver appearance. The nickel finish was achieved by electroplating the metal surface with a thin layer of nickel.
4. Polished: The Colt Python Elite was finished with a polished finish, which gave it a smooth, shiny appearance. The polished finish was achieved by buffing and polishing the metal surface to a high shine.
5. Matte: Some versions of the Colt Python were finished with a matte finish, which gives the revolver a more subdued, matte appearance. The matte finish was achieved by bead blasting the metal surface to create a rough, non-reflective finish.

Overall, the available finishes for the Colt Python have varied throughout its history and have included both traditional finishes like stainless steel and blued, as well as more modern finishes like nickel and matte.

Barrel Lengths

The barrel length of the Colt Python has varied throughout its history, with different models being available in a variety of barrel lengths. Some of the more common barrel lengths for the Colt Python include:

1. 6 inches: The original Colt Python was available with a 6-inch barrel, which was considered to be a good balance between accuracy and concealability.
2. 4 inches: Some versions of the Colt Python were available with a 4-inch barrel, which made the revolver more compact and easier to carry.
3. 3 inches: The Colt Python Carry, which was introduced in 2020, is available with a 3-inch barrel, making it the most compact version of the Python.

Overall, the barrel length of the Colt Python has varied throughout its history and has included both longer and shorter options to suit the needs of different shooters.

On the TV

In the hit TV show "The Walking Dead," the character of Deputy Rick Grimes (played by Andrew Lincoln) carries a six-inch barreled Colt Python .357 Magnum revolver as his duty sidearm. This choice of firearm adds to the realism and credibility of the show, as the Colt Python is a classic and highly regarded revolver known for its quality, craftsmanship, and versatility. The Python is a reliable and powerful weapon that is well suited to the survival situation in the show, making it a popular choice among fans of the series. The use of the Colt Python by Rick Grimes in the Walking Dead also highlights the timelessness of the design and the craftsmanship of the revolver, which is a timeless classic, and still used today by many gun enthusiasts and collectors.

Alternatives

There are several alternative firearms that are similar to the Colt Python in terms of design, function, and caliber. Here are a few examples:

1. Smith & Wesson Model 27: This revolver is similar to the Python in terms of design and caliber and is also available in .357 Magnum. It is considered a classic revolver and has a good reputation among revolver enthusiasts.
2. Ruger GP100: This is a versatile, medium-framed revolver that is available in a variety of calibers, including .357 Magnum. It is known for its rugged construction and reliability and is a popular choice for both hunting and self-defense.
3. Taurus Model 66: This revolver is similar in design and caliber to the Python and S&W Model 27. It's known for its durability and reliability.
4. Dan Wesson Model 15: This revolver is similar to the Python in terms of design and caliber, it's known for its accuracy and customization options.
5. Magnum Research Desert Eagle: This is a semi-automatic pistol that is available in .357 Magnum caliber. It is known for its large size and powerful recoil and is often used for hunting and self-defense.

Keep in mind that these alternatives are just a few examples, and there are many other firearms on the market that can be considered similar to the Colt Python in terms of design, function, and caliber. Ultimately, the best firearm for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Colt Python is a firearm that has stood the test of time and remains a highly desirable choice for collectors and shooters alike. With its fine craftsmanship, versatility, and unique "wow factor," the Python is a gun that is sure to turn heads and get people talking. From its attention to detail and reliability to its historical significance and rarity, the Python has a lot to offer collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether you're a fan of the hit TV show "The Walking Dead" or just a collector of fine firearms, the Colt Python is a great choice. It's always important to handle firearms safely and responsibly, and when it comes to the allure of the Colt Python, it's easy to see why it's a timeless classic.