Colt Python
The Colt Python is the most iconic American double-action revolver ever made — a .357 Magnum six-shooter with a smooth-as-glass trigger, a vent-rib barrel, and hand-fitting that put it in a class above any production revolver at its original introduction in 1955. Discontinued in 1999 and reissued in 2020 with modern manufacturing, the Python remains the aspirational revolver for serious collectors and shooters who want the finest double-action trigger available in a production firearm.
Read our full Colt Python Buying Guide ↓
Original Python vs. Reissue Python: Which Should You Buy?
The original Colt Python (1955–1999) was hand-fitted by Colt’s skilled armorers — each gun individually tuned for trigger quality. Original Pythons in excellent condition command $2,000–$5,000+ depending on configuration and provenance, and are genuine collector investments. The 2020 reissue Python uses modern CNC machining to achieve tighter tolerances than the original at production prices, with a stainless steel construction that’s more durable than the original blued carbon steel. The reissue trigger is excellent by any standard, though Python purists debate whether it matches the best original examples. For a shooter, the reissue is the practical choice. For a collector, originals in box command serious premiums.
Colt Python Specs: 4.25″ vs. 6″ Barrel
The reissue Python is available in 4.25″ and 6″ barrel lengths, both in stainless steel. The 4.25″ model is more compact and better balanced for carry or range use — it fits most holsters designed for 4″ revolvers and handles more naturally. The 6″ model maximizes velocity and gives a longer sight radius for target shooting — the choice for precision work and the configuration most associated with the Python’s competition heritage. Both carry the same 6-round cylinder in .357 Magnum (which also chambers .38 Special for practice). The full-length underlug and vent rib are present on both configurations.
Python Trigger: Why It’s Still the Benchmark
The Colt Python’s double-action trigger pull is widely considered the smoothest of any production revolver — a long, linear, glass-smooth stroke with no stacking or grittiness. The single-action pull is equally refined. This quality comes from Colt’s leaf spring action, which differs from the coil spring systems used by Smith & Wesson and Ruger. The leaf spring system produces a more linear pull but is more complex to tune. Colt’s manufacturing precision on the reissue maintains this characteristic. For competitive wheelgun shooting or anyone who simply appreciates mechanical excellence, the Python’s trigger is a genuine experience.
Python vs. S&W 686 vs. Ruger GP100: Premium .357 Revolver Comparison
The three most compared premium .357 revolvers are the Python, the S&W 686, and the Ruger GP100. The GP100 is the most durable — built to handle a lifetime of full-power .357 Magnum loads with minimal wear. The 686 offers S&W’s excellent factory trigger and the deepest aftermarket of any production revolver. The Python costs significantly more than either and offers the best factory trigger and the most distinctive aesthetics. For a working hunting or defense revolver, the GP100. For a competition or range gun, the 686. For a statement piece with the best trigger in the category, the Python.
Frequently Asked Questions: Colt Python
What makes the Colt Python special?
The Colt Python is widely considered the finest production double-action revolver ever made. Introduced in 1955 and hand-fitted at Colt’s custom shop, the original Python was known for its exceptionally smooth double-action trigger, its ventilated rib barrel, and the quality of its fit and finish that surpassed any other production revolver of its era. The current-production Python (reintroduced 2020) uses stainless steel construction with modern manufacturing while retaining the original’s profile and the smooth action that made it legendary.
Is the new Colt Python as good as the original?
The reintroduced Python has been well-received but differs from the original in meaningful ways. Modern Pythons use a different internal lockwork and are manufactured with CNC machining rather than hand-fitting. The trigger on the new Python is very good — better than most production revolvers — but most experienced shooters find original Pythons in excellent condition have a measurably smoother double-action pull. The new Python is a genuinely excellent revolver; it is not identical to an original Python.
What caliber is the Colt Python?
The Colt Python is chambered exclusively in .357 Magnum, which also accepts .38 Special ammunition. The .357 Magnum cylinder allows .38 Special rounds to be loaded and fired safely — making it versatile for both defensive .357 Magnum loads and more economical .38 Special practice ammunition.
What barrel lengths does the Colt Python come in?
The current production Python is available in 3-inch, 4.25-inch, and 6-inch barrel configurations. The 4.25-inch is the most popular all-around length. The 6-inch is preferred for target shooting and hunting; the 3-inch for carry.
See Also: Colt Firearms • Revolvers • .357 Magnum Ammo • Ruger GP100 • S&W Model 686