Colt Python

The Colt Python is manufactured by Colt's Manufacturing Company of Hartford, Connecticut as a .357 Magnum caliber revolver. The Colt Python is often praised to be the quintessential American revolver. The Colt Python and the Colt Peacemaker are frequently considered to be the best revolvers made by Colt.

By: marvin Posted: August 28, 2007 Filed under: Revolvers, Colt, Double Action, Six round cylinder, United States

Termination

In October of 1999, the Colt Manufacturing Co. announced the official termination of its manufacture and production of Colt Python revolvers. Colt's Custom Gun Shop proceeding producing a limiting number of Python revolvers however this production was terminated around 2003.

Description

The Colt Python revolver is a large I-frame, double action handgun chambered for the .357 Magnum cartridge. The weapon was originally developed by Smith & Wesson. Colt Pythons have an outstanding reputation for accuracy, superior finish, smooth trigger pull and constrained cylinder lock up. The one downside to the precision is that the Python's ability to go out of time with persistent heavy shooting. The condition affects the Colt Python in which the cylinder does not turn into the precise alignment with the forcing cone of the weapon. Therefore, a user may be sprayed with small bits of hot gun powder when he firearm is discharged. When this happens to the firearm, the lockwork on the weapon needs to be re-timed.

Introduction

The Colt Python revolver was first brought to the marketplace in 1955 as Colt's premier model revolver, and the weapon was initially presented to be a large frame 38 Special revolver for targets. As a result of this, the weapon features a smooth trigger, precision adjustable sights, extra metal and a durable and solid construction. Routine production of the Colt Python ceased in 1998 and then the special order ceased in 2001.

The Colt Pythons distinct appearance includes a ventilated rib, full barrel underlug and adjustable sights. These features give the gun a very unique look. Initially, Colt manufactured the Colt Python with hollow, less stable underlugs, however Colt quickly changed them to solid to add a stabilizing effect to the barrel weight. The Python has an edge over other revolvers because when at full cock, just as the trigger is pressed, the cylinder on the firearm locks up tight for the full duration of the revolver's hammer strike. Other revolver firearms have a small hint of looseness even when they are fully cocked. The small gap between the cylinder of the weapon and the forcing cone is very tight and compact. This feature further adds to the weapons velocity and accuracy.

Variants

The Colt Python revolver was initially presented in two finishes: Bright Nickel and Royal Blue. The Bright Nickel finish was quickly discontinued when the satin stainless and mirror polished Ultimate Stainless steel models were introduced.

Colt Pythons come available in several barrel models including 2.5 in, 4 in, and 8 in sizes. The most popular model was the six inch version of the weapon and the eight inch model of the weapon was intended for hunting. There is a 3 inch version that is a collectible.

Due to rising production costs and an overall lack of sales, the Colt Python is not in production or manufactured today.

Usage

The Colt Python quickly became a favorite among many law enforcement agencies when it was first introduced. The 6" barreled Colt Python was very popular with uniformed officers and the shorter 3" and 4" barrels were the optimum choice for plainclothes officers. The Colt Python along with all revolvers have lost considerable interest because of greater law enforcement needs that utilize the semi automatic pistol. Many agencies have also banned the Magnum load. The round has a very lethal force even after shot through walls. 9mm are cheaper to maintain and do not pose this problem. The Colt Python still remains an enormously popular revolver and is till used on the market and in high demand.