Whenever I'm putting a new revolver through it's paces I number the cylinders with a label maker. That way I can keep track of which hole might be causing problems. If the revolver is going to be used for hunting I also shoot each hole for groups (6 shots from hole #1, 6 shots from #2..ect....). Some revolvers show no difference between holes, some show a lot. Great video, thank you!
@@TargetSuite I was forced to buy Promag magizine for my carry piece because you can't buy factory any longer. The Promag WORK! But I missed having numbered witness holes. Sharpe to the rescue!
Very good idea on revolvers, I do it all the time. Nothing fancy, just nail polish. Also number your magazines for semi-autos. It can help narrow down feeding problems.
Very informative video, i inherited a blued 4" Python from my father that was made back in the sixties that was his duty weapon, still shoots great after all these years.
Cherish it. My friends Python was his duty sidearm and his son has called "dibs" on it. I was going to offer him $250 for it because it was so old... maybe $300 since we were friends. Hoping he didn't know what it was worth.
@@Tokarev6485 That actually worked for me once, and then I carried that gun for 20 years before he recently asked to buy it back as a family heirloom. Downside; I had to sell it back for the same $250.
@frankhinkle5772 at least you gave it back for what you bought it at. But I would have also let them know how much it was after you gave it back but thats just me.
Thanks for the video. I just love watching a colt in action! You are right about your hand load issue in this testing. I’ve only shot manufacturer ammo and had no misfire issues ever whatsoever with my 2020 python.
I really liked the comparison between single and double action trigger pull back angles. I never really thought about the differences between the 2 angles. I also liked what you found out about the front vs back site size differences. I never really analyzed that design and the ramifications of the 2 different sizes as it relates to sight picture. I'll have to look at my pistols and rifles that have sights to see if there is a difference. I wonder if the size difference is negated/eliminated when the distance becomes greater between the rear and front site when the 2 sites are different sizes.
Very nice video showcasing the new Colt Python. I've always liked the look of the Python, especially the old Royal Blue finish. However, the Smith&Wesson's were always more in my range of affordability. I really appreciate the hammer fall scale that you fabricated. It was an excellent demonstration and something that I hadn't considered. Nice learning experience for me. Thanks for another great and informative video.
Wayne you are so right about the Smith & Wesson's being more in the range of affordability! It's been a long time ago but back in 1979 I bought a new Mod 19 Snub at the local gunstore! At the time I was really checking out the Pythons but the Mod 19 was a good bit cheaper than the Python so I bought the 19. Some months later I followed that purchase with a new 4" Mod 19 with the 3 T's and white outline rear sight and red ramp. Over the years I have enjoyed owning the Mod 19's. And over the years I have managed to pick up a few Pythons as well including the new 2020 version Pythons. If they came out with new Python in Royal Blue I would be the first in line at the local gunstore to pick one up. Really it's hard to go wrong with a Smith & Wesson or a Colt revolver. In fact I have never had any kind of failure on a Smith & Wesson or Colt revolver. Maybe I have just been lucky but they have always worked as expected!
@@kickit59 My first Smith was a 6" Model 27 Highway Patrolman back in '75. Really liked that big N Frame, but traded it for a new 3 Screw Ruger Blackhawk 4-5/8". Wish that I had kept that 27, but I could really draw and shoot, accurately, that Single Action out in the South Texas brush country. Next was a S&W Model 13-1 sometime in the early '80's. In the '90's I added a S&W Model 36 Chiefs Special and a Model 49 Bodyguard. I prefer Ruger for Single Action Revolvers, and S&W for DA revolver in my "stables". Never owned a Colt, except a Series 70 Combat Commander for a short time in the late '80's. If I can find a "good deal" on a 1970's era Royal Blue 4" Python, I'll jump on it with my "snake" catcher. 😊 BTW, my first revolver, ever, was a 3 Screw, 7-1/2" Ruger Blackhawk in 30 Carbine that I bought in early 1968. Sold it off before I left for Viet Nam in 1970. I can't remember what my reasoning was but, like a simpleton, I let that sweet baby go. 🤯
@@kickit59 It's really hard to beat that old 4" Model 19 with the 3T's and that great outlined rear sight. I mostly ran 38 Special through it for practice, and a followed up with a few cylinders of 357 to keep in practice with it. Being a K frame I was reluctant to run full loads on a regular basis because of possible timing issues. When I was out in the brush, however, it was loaded with 357 Super Vel, the old factory hot load of the day back then.
@@waynehajek6346 Wayne there are two no actually three revolvers that I sold during financial downturns that today I really regret. One was a Mod 57 41 Magnum 4" blued in the wood presentation case that I bought new at Warshals Sporting Goods in Seattle over 40 years ago. Another was a mid 70's Python 4" Nickel that was still as new in the box. The last was a 4" Blued Mod 27 that was mint with it's box. One day down the road I will get replacements for all three and I'll be pretty happy about that!
Wilson Combat makes super high quality click adjustable target rear and red/green fiber optic front or gold bead. And the rear sight fits tightly into the frame with no side to side play. I shoot reloads in my new Pythons and Anacondas using CCI primers and never have had a failure to fire on double action.
Your experience with the new Colt Python exactly mirrors mine. According to Colt, mine was manufactured in Dec. 2022. I sent it back to Colt and it was returned without any real improvement. CCI 500 primers wouldn't light double action at least 1 out of 6 rds. with my CCI handloads. Remington, and Federal .38 Special factory ammo did fine. Yes it's definitely an ammo queen. Sadly, the only primers that seem currently available are CCI and factory ammo is expensive. I have a few W-W primers and will give them a try. Yes, it does have a couple of "problems". Note. W-W primed handloads worked flawlessly.
No choosing, really, just accumulate as many as seems personally feasible! Colt, Smith, Ruger all part of the selection... Happiness is a full gun safe! If one is into that sort of thing that is to say. Good luck dealing with your leftist government, we're currently struggling with ours, too.... bureaucrats and politicians are not friends of social freedom and individual liberty.
I have an original 6" Python I bought brand new back in the early 80's and now that I'm getting older, the orange front sight is also getting a bit harder to pick up for me. They are a lot tougher to replace on the older Pythons, but I wouldn't change it anyway as I want to keep the gun factory original. I do want to pick up one of the new 4" Pythons as a range gun...I just love the looks of the 4" model. I'm giving Colt a little more time to tweak them out, but the time for me to jump is getting closer... Your video helped that along!👍
@@TargetSuiteI wonder if these problems are fixed completely now, my birthdays in a few days and my girlfriends looking to get me a 6 inch version, my all time favorite revolver and a dream gun of mine but I wouldn’t want it if it has problems
I can understand how the double-action trigger fall must be shorter, I just didn't realize it's that much shorter. that was an illuminating demonstration, thanks!
Federal primers are the best for revolvers. Had problem with CCIs in any revolver with a nice trigger. Also when installing the primers, seating them flush isn't enough. Seat them fully even if slightly below flush. The energy of the firing pin gets absorbed pushing the primer in. Also using a .22 is not only more economical it improves your double action trigger pull because they have a heavier trigger pull in order to insure ignition of the rim fire cartridges.
Great analysis of hammer fall of single vs double action. I have had my eyes on the Colt Python since it was reintroduced. Hopefully some day! Great video and Great shooting!
I tried one of the new model Pythons and I must say with no bias my old model Python made in the 80's has a much smoother trigger pull and very light and crisper single action pull. Oh and that deep rich royal blue that only comes from the old hand picked craftsmen .
I purchased the 6" version last year with ZERO buyer's remorse. Put 85' series Deer Hollow reproduction/original grips, gold bead Wilson Combat front sight and a Wilson Combat rear 'u' sights on the gun. It's perfection. LOVE firing this gun.
I got the exact model in February and had to send it back to fix a cylinder latch binding issue. Colt got it back to me in 3 weeks. Also experienced light primer strikes DA with Speer Lawman 158 gr .38 special but no other brands had that issue. Seems to work as expected now. The fit and finish is excellent now and I’m pleased.
I had one of the new Cobra .357 3" and it was a piece of junk, broke just by dry firing, sent to COLT told me it was fixed and I could dry fire, well did so about 30 times and broke again, and then was fixed and I sold it, broke on the new owner, and they sent it to COLT for another repair. I am afraid to buy a COLT PYTHON. It was the trigger would not return and broke. Well I sure hope they got this done RIGHT as I would love a 3" Python yet am afraid to buy a COLT of new make. I had a blue (yes wish they were now in blue favor blue) 3" Python in the 80's or early 90's and never fired it, loved that gun and feel. I carried my personal blue COLT PYTHONG 6" on duty in the late 70's and early 80 before going to a pistol (rules changed). What a wonderful weapon that was an extremely accurate, just oozed confidence.
Appreciate the video. It was definitely informative and fun to watch. I recently had the opportunity to shoot one of the newer 6 inch barreled pythons and 3 inch barrel pythons that were purchased within a few weeks of each other from my friend. They were purchased very recently and I had no issues shooting several different types of factory ammo. I shot double action and single action without any issues, so I would venture to say has something to do with your reloads where the problem lies. As far as the accuracy went, it was phenomenal with both. Yes I was at an indoor range, and I wasn’t shooting all that far away but both of them shot extremely accurate and I was very surprised with the results of the 3 inch barrel version, as I was a bit nervous shooting full house 357 magnum, but it did not show that much more recoil, as compared to the 6 inch barrel version at least in my opinion. As far as the sights go, Wilson combat as other reviewers have mentioned, makes some excellent sights for these revolvers. In my opinion, colt should be embarrassed and ashamed knowing that another company had to be the ones to come out with better and no issue sights for there most popular revolver that’s $1500.00! Even though I shot both revolvers well with the factory sights, they are not that great and I agree with your assessment! Colt firearms clearly acknowledged a while back that there was issues with the rear sight coming loose and they also acknowledged that Wilson combat made some new sights for these revolvers. I even spoke with their customer service on the phone about this and they laughed and giggled like school kids, instead of taking responsibility and putting on better sights When they realized there was a problem. They could’ve easily put better sights on or even started automatically putting the Wilson combat sights on for people who are spending this kind of money on their revolvers, but instead they know there’s an issue and they let other people spend $150-$200 more to get decent sights put on they’re revolvers and they’re OK with it??? Colt, I hope you’re reading this comment and I hope you understand that eventually people will buy less of your products when you perform this way.
Colt refused to help me with one of their products years ago. I wasn’t looking for a handout; I started the conversation by saying I was willing to pay them handsomely. They drastically mishandled the situation and lost a customer for life because of it. They do not care what happens after the sale; period.
@@RFTwo I certainly can’t blame you for not wanting to deal with him anymore. I am 48 years old and I have to tell you even to this day, Customer Service means more to me than anything else. If I do not feel like I’m respected and treated right especially after I spent money on A company‘s product, then I will never return and I will unleash my feelings. Some of these companies simply do not care about their customers which is sad, wrong and absolutely ridiculous. I called them a couple times about a holster for a python that would show up on their website and simply be gone in a matter of minutes. I called them and discuss this with them a couple times and they couldn’t explain it and couldn’t verify things or answer questions that I had. Then they gave me information that wasn’t correct. I ended up calling the maker of the holster for colt pythons that sent holsters too cold for the pythons. They gave me all the information I needed and could not understand Colts indiscretions about the product. Sigsauer is another one that I’ve had problems with. Most of their customer service People or agents are rude and have no personality whatsoever. They don’t wanna make any effort to answer questions or do anything for you as the customer. And if I call a company and asked to speak to a manager or somebody that I see on TH-cam and I am told that they’re not able to be spoken to, that’s an immediate turn off for me. That is terrible terrible service and they should be embarrassed
My best friend has two 6 inch originals..One blued, one stainless...He needed a little brother for them,, so he found a 6 inch Diamondback .22 in blue...quite the trio.
My recent purchase of the Python (new model) was quite a disappointment. Following is the RMA letter I included with Python sent back to Colt. All identifying info has been scrubbed. Folks - I recently took took possession of my new model Python. Upon unpackaging, several issues came to light. 1: The barrel is misaligned to the frame. Looking down the sight window, the front sight is canted to the right. Looking down the muzzle, it’s even more obviously canted to the left. When the barrel was torqued to the frame, it needed to be screwed on the tiniest bit more. Colt QC clearly missed this, but I know you can quickly correct it. Thanks. 2: Python triggers are legendary. My double action trigger is a thing of glory; my single action most definitely is not. I understand positive sear angle, but the single action trigger on this gun draws the hammer almost 1/64” to the rear before a heavy release. Some research suggests that this is done deliberately at the factory to satisfy some absurd California and Massachusetts dropped gun requirements. I live in a Southern state. We like our guns and we don’t drop them. The Colt customer service rep I spoke with said you are not allowed to tune the single action. C’mon guys - I suspect you all have Pythons of your own and that your single action triggers are tuned to perfection. I want that too. I promise to look the other way while a technician mounts the trigger and hammer onto their jig and takes a few passes with a file to make the trigger pull what it can and should be. As Sargent Shultz from “Hogans Hero’s” famously said, “I know nothing!” I want to show this revolver off to my shooting buddies. Right now, I feel I need to apologize for it. This isn’t what either of us wants. 3: There is ~ 0.002 end shake in the cylinder. I’m guessing this is withing spec, but any end shake at all in a premier revolver like this is too much. I plan to shoot this a lot, and the battering the ratchet pad will take will shorten the gun’s life. Please fix this. I’ve wanted a Python since I started shooting (decades ago). Now I have one. I ask you to please make this the revolver I thought I was buying. I know you can do this. Thanks and regards,
I have a 686-2 that someone ground down the mainspring strain screw to make the double action pull lighter. Same thing; light strikes with some ammo. I found original parts and put the gun back to stock. When you were dry firing I thought that double action hammer strike looked weak. I really wish Colt would put nice wood grips on those.
Thanks for another great and very informative video! I also would prefer blued steel but this one is very nice too. Really liked your diagnostics with the toothpicks😊 and sure do appreciate your knowledge and hard work!
I have a 6" that I upgraded with Wilson Combat Sights, as well as original grips, and I have a 3" also with Wilson sights and service grips. I love them both, but both still have trouble going through my reloads reliably, however, they have no problems with factory ammo. I will say that both did have to go back to the factory. The 6" for a cosmetic issue with a burr inside the trigger guard where the side plate met the frame, and the 3" because one cylinder would fail to rotate in single action, only when loaded. Both are fixed. Both have had those cheap thin smooth grips replaced and the sights as well and they're very accurate and easy to shoot well.
Thanks for your comment. I have a couple of different sights that I'm going to cover in the next video and one of them is that fantastic sight from Wilson Combat.
@@TargetSuite The Wilson sights are a tremendous upgrade from the ACRO style sights on the 2020 PY's and for sure they are worth the cost. I have the gold bead and U notch combination on mine and it is a tack driver.
I agree, Frank. The OEM rear sight on my 2020 Python was not securely mounted. The Wilson sight fits like a glove. Too bad Colt didn’t partner with Wilson, as you expect a revolver of this caliber to have excellent sights, like the first generation did.
I installed Wilson sights on my new Python. I went with a gold bead for a front sight, their U notch rear sight. Much better quality. Still have same sights on my original Python I bought in 1976. Take care.
I had a 77 Python with the 4 inch barrel and it was a tack driver. Light single action pull and the smoothest double action pull I’ve ever shot. A S&W 686 with a lot of gunsmith work comes a little close.
Good title and as others have said, federal primers are softer. I’ve had problems with older Colt Detective Specials in double action, but not with federal ammo.
As always, very informative. Always good to see you my friend. Beautiful revolver. I never like red for the color of the front sight post either. Being partially color blind to red and green, in low light conditions, I don't pick up the red. White is the only color of front sight I use.
I appreciate the comments in this video, interesting thing about the "Primers" and the Strike-hammer travel vs wight and trigger pull. Some worth considering when it come to an unwanted Emergency!! 😎🤙
I bought a King recently and same problem in DA (10 out of a 100, using factory 38 and 357)and immediately sent it back and a month later I got it back. Have not taken to the range but the pull feels harder. Maybe CZ can help them with their triggers. I watched your video completely and I like your competence and you have a new sub.
I hope the new ones are better than the old ones. I had 2 of them, the first was right out of the Colt Custom shop bought in '77. It was fragile jumping out of time and accuracy suffered, the forcing cone needed work and it would drag and jam when dirty. I also experienced FTF with it. It looked beautiful but I wouldn't bet my life on it. I'm not impressed by safe queens so I sold it and bought a standard Python in '82 and experienced the exact same problems. I sold that one 3 years later and bought a Trooper MkIII and after shooting it extensively IMHO it was twice the revolver the Python was. In later years I also bought a M66 S&W and a Ruger GP100 and a used Speed 6 also found it's way into my hands, all better weapons than the 2 Pythons I owned.
The PROBLEM was those PYTHONS were made TOO recently. The OLD COLTS are the BEST, when they still had COMPETENT SKILLED GUNSMITHS STILL. COLT used to DOMINATE the OLYMPIC SHOOTING TOURNAMENTS BACK IN THE EARLY PART OF THE CENTURY. 🤔😯😉😃😃😃
Ken I'm curious if you have tried the new Kimber .357 revolvers. Expensive yes (1200 bucks), but MAN Im having a great shooting experience with the Kimber. Give one a try.
Does that have a flat hammer spring, that you can put more tension on? (Idk about revolvers) but my 1886 chiappa 45/70 needed a skosh more flat hammer spring tension.
Thanks! My wife and I moved to a cabin in a woodsy neighborhood (not the highest income 'hood but I find it amazing) where our back property line is shared with the Ocala National Forest. For pistols I was down to a Walther CCP 9mm. I'd always wanted a Python esp. after owning what seemed like an old Ruger knockoff that was easy to let a thumb slip off the tough hammer which, once, went off as it slipped, despite being almost all the way down. I hate it when people say, "That can't happen", because it did (I shouldn't have tried, as my hand was a bit hurt). Maybe it didn't have a transfer bar. I got myself a 6" barrel as a compromise between practicality and playing modern cowboy (more practical for me than a SAS, and I like sighting 5.5 and 6" revolvers) and the wife a 4.25". I considered a Viper for her but she's not tiny, likes durability and substance, and I'd spotted a pair of torso holsters I liked meant just for Pythons. We're excited to take them to the range and found this very informative!
My Old Man got me a Colt for my 18th Birthday. Never had a miss fire. I have trigger pulls, written down somewhere, on everything I own . 7lbs seems about right but 5lbs sucks. More like 2.5. The first 6 months I owned it I had been loading cast 158 swc max loads. YES George Hard Cast. I cleaned the mold one day and found out they' were 168. Kicked a little more than expected. But not like what was soon to follow. My Dads best friend had moved out to Idaho and became good buddies with one of the locals. When He told this old cowboy I just got a new Colt, He immediately loaded up a whole RG Dunn cigar box full. When we got it I fired 2 rounds and my Dad 1. It got buried in the swamp. Moral of the story don't shoot other peoples hand loads and sometimes your own.
As you panned the revolver around the crown does not even look perfectly round. Little details like that is what gets me on these high end revolver like Python and S&W. French still make the best revolver and in US Ruger GP and SP are affordable, one peace body that is overbuilt and works every time with exceptional customer service. Yes hammer needs some shimming out of factory and some details on what you get can be off but generally Ruger GP100 with 5 inch barrel in my to go.(Davidson Edition). Sometimes shinny and pretty is not always better.) Great review.Nice Revolver definitely.
The Python is the best looking revolver ever made. As for a daily use gun, the original Python was too delicate. Colt beefed up the frame and internal parts to be more rugged in the new Pythons so it's not as delicate as the original. They're beautiful revolvers but I'd pick a Ruger GP100 357 over the Colt because any gun I own is going to be used and the GP100 is the strongest, most rugged DA revolver made. I'll still say that the Python is the best looking DA revolver ever made by any company. Even people that know nothing about guns will recognize the Python. But I'll always take function over fashion. Most 1911 enthusiasts would fall over dead if they saw my 4" 1911 45. Two different grip panels and a lot of grip tape. She's not the prettiest pistol around but I set her up to fit my hands and shooting style perfectly. As long as she goes boom every time I pull the trigger I'm not concerned about looks. I'd do the same with a Python or a $10,000 Wilson Combat Custom 1911. Looks won't save your life.
IMO the nickle plated 27 outshines the Python in looks, but when I bought my first duty gun I passed on a used Indiana state police python for new Ruger Security Six. I kept that until I was issued a Smith model 64.
great Video! Hey, that S&W 17 is a bit off! The barrel can't be in the frame straight - look how radically right the rear sight is adjusted. Maybe you were shooting at desperados in storm 😁😁 Wider rear sight blade for the Python should be a great help. Have a metallic silhouette pistol somewhere that has a rear sight with four notches. Just pull back & turn the blade insert 90° to rotate through the four options. Front sight blade (no ramp) was quick change too, I think it just took a small allen, or it was push a plunger with an allen or pin/rod to release. Might have to go dig around and look that one up.
I had the same problem on some harder primers. Milled about .005” off the hammer stop so it engages the transfer bar a little more and no more problems. 11:25
Not sure if a certain brand primer cup that is slightly thinner would help the double action light taps. Im not certain but I always thought the magnum primer cups were thicker slightly than that of the standard small pistol primer cups. I could be wrong on all of it though.
Great video. I bought a brand-new Colt Python wearing walnut grips in 1962. I was using 38 special ammo and was not impressed with the accuracy. I went to my gunsmith and asked him what I was doing wrong, because this gun was supposed to be very accurate. He said try shooting 357 ammo and see if there’s any difference. I did and sure enough I rotated between 38 special wad cutters and 357 mag ammo and the 357 ammo outshot the 38 special wad cutters buy a bunch. He said the gun was designed to shoot 357 but can accommodate 38 special ammo. At the same time, I bought a Colt Diamond back 38 special. With 38 special wad cutters I shot fantastic groups, better than the Colt Python with 357 ammo. I put both in a gorgeous wood case with a glass top and they looked like a matched set.
I have had double action pistols that wouldn't fire ammo with hard primers , but fired if you pulled the hammer back . Great video and gun . You have a blessed one my friend .
I have owned 4 Pythons in my. 60+ years of skills and accuracy development. I love some S&W’s (especially older recessed cylinder models) and some of the quality built Ruger products. The Python is at the top of the heap. I have my eye on the new model 3” if I can break open the wallet.
Iv had the same problem with CCI primers. pistol and rifle. ifs the Nickle coating makes them harder to set off. My BLR 308 will not set off any cci 200 or 250's at all.
I had a Colt Python and I didn't really care for the action on the gun and on top of that the cylinder spins backwards on rotation but it is a very attractive piece you want a superior gun buy a Smith & Wesson model 27 or Model 66 you will be much happier
I am happy that your new Python has excellent fit and finish. I was so excited when the King Cobra was released that I bought one sight unseen in 2019. It was far from perfect. The trigger reset had multiple clicks and sometimes the trigger didn’t engage properly. Colt “customer service” claimed the gun was working as intended. I rarely sell a firearm but that one is gone and I have no regrets. I have more than one Colt double action revolver made in 1960 or earlier. There is no comparison between those fine firearms and that 2019 King Cobra. None.
@chipsterb4946 I get what you're saying. This one is really polished up nice, and it has a fantastic double action trigger pull, but the rear sight has .015" of slop, side to side, the front sight and single action pull are like something you would find on a Taurus or worse. At least the bone are there.
My new Python is awesome in every way except the sights are crap. I ordered the Wilson Combat sights for it and am anxiously awaiting there arrival. I think that will make it better. My only complaint is that you shouldn't have to replace the sights on a new 1500 dollar pistol. Colt needs to do better than that.
The revolver existed before CZ purchased the company, and the new Colt Python was designed by Americans and assembled by Americans in America. Why are you giving Colt all the credit?
@ACTIONABLE INTELLIGENCE still have had 0 issues with Ruger GP100 and Blackhawk .357 Magnum or Ruger LCR .327 Federal Magnum. Even old .32 S&W loads from the 40s fired in that LCR.
My wife has a Colt's Detective Special revolver that exhibits a similar problem with double action shooting. Sometimes the rounds will not fire even with factory ammunition. But single action the gun will firee every time. Your illustration of the difference in hammer fall between double action and single action may help explain the reason. We have replaced the hammer spring - twice - and the problem persisists. I think there is a timing problem on Colt's DA revolvers sometimes that causes hammer fall to be cushioned in DA but not in SA. Has anyone else seen this? Is there a gunsmith who is familiar with this phenomennon? If so, who is he?
Hello Sir! Discovered your channel today, liked and subscribed! Really loved watching this, no BS and practical insights into one of the most iconic, modern handguns. Warm regards from Malta, Europe!
Thank you George. I'm glad Colt still alive even more with Zeska blood. Hopefully Colt will run better and expo sales will help the Co. Keep it up George.
Never owned a Colt Snake Gun, but plenty of Smith and Wesson 586 "s and 686"s never had a Problem with either, shooting Reloads or Factory ammo and never did so called trigger Jobs....
12:30 typically S&W quality. I have a 686 that has to have the rear sight maxed out to the right just to hit point of aim and that's only one of many issues the gun has. I should have gone with the Python.
Good eyes. So far you're the only one to comment on that. And it is due to the fact that the barrel is not clocked correctly. It needs to be turned clockwise from the target's point of view about 5°. That will eliminate that offset sight blade.
@@TargetSuite Mine was overclocked by about 2 to 3 degrees. I got that fixed and it didnt have that much impact on the site position. I also have barrel restriction so shooting lead is out. 2 of the 6 chambers dont pass an alignment rod. Timing was off from factory as well. Forcing cone was extremely rough. Contacted S&W twice and they never got back to me. I will never buy a new S&W ever again. Thanks for the cool Python video. Looks like a nice revolver.
I have three Smiths, a 24, 625, and 64 all are dead on and absolute joy to shoot. Most times Smith will fix problem guns from what I have heard, contact them. The only complaint I have is the 64 came with a bobbed hammer, which makes holster selection for old duty rigs difficult as the strap does not secure the gun.
Thanks for the video. I have a 3-inch. Very nice gun (coming from a S&W fan). I shoot mine DA. It has a very nice DA stroke. I shoot heavy-loaded .38 Specials (AKA: Skeeter loads) in mine. I augmented the sights with front/rear Wilson sights with a gold bead up front. Service stocks and a Tyler T-grip make it a perfect belt gun. Mine is new and looks as though all of the teething issues have been resolved.
Yeah.... The Colt Python is very nice. Beautiful in fact. Fit and finish is top notch. I saw one at one of my local stores, looked it over, and was impressed. Then I saw the price tag,... ouch! A few minutes later I was at another store where I saw a S&W 686. Not as polished, but it'll get the job done, and for a lot less. Now I have a 686. After 150 rounds and some dry fire practice, the trigger is becoming very good.
Interesting and informative video George, thank you. I have been intrigued with and wanting a Colt Python ever since I saw the 1973 movie Electra Glide In Blue when I was 9 or 10. Big John Wintergreen's (Robert Blake) Python in the "Pinto" finish with the blued frame and nickel cylinder and barrel was the neatest looking revolver I had ever seen. Still haven't bought myself one, but maybe one day I will. For whatever reason the new stainless Python just doesn't seem to scratch the itch, maybe with the deep blue finish it might.
Thanks for your comment. And you know what? The more I handle this the less intrigued I am. It's just not the same as the older royal blue pythons. I know even those older guns had some problems but the Mystique was there!
@@TargetSuite Yes indeed, the old royal blue finish was a thing of beauty and I don't think the mystique will ever go away or be replaced. I haven't fired an original Python in 40 years but I remember the experience. A Fort Worth police officer that was a friend of my dads let me shoot his and it was a pleasure. Thank you for the reply.
They all need: Wilson Combat sites. Removal of serrations from trigger. Chamfer chambers. Relieve the left grip panel to better position speed-loaders.
George, Great video on a fantastic gun, but that Smith and Wesson model 17 Combat Masterpiece stole the show!...those are magnificent in every sense of the word! ....just my 2c worth.....Best Regards D.
Picked up a new anaconda last Saturday. Got it home and tried sighting it in and just couldnt. With the rear sight all the way to the right, it was still shooting left. So I sat there looking it over really closely, and noticed the barrel wasn't turned in even with the frame. Which was slightly canting the front sight. So, luckily I can do basic work myself and turned the barrel and frame to align them better. It's not 100 percent perfect, but it's as close as human hands can get to it. Now shoots proper and dead center. Just sad colt couldn't get it right before it left the factory, especially on a gun that costs this much
Nice video, George! I think your new nickname, if you keep on shooting magnum loads all the time, should be, "Flinch." That's what I'd be doing after shooting that many rounds. Ross Seyfried wrote some great articles on SA vs DA shooting. He found he was inherently more accurate shooting DA for two reasons. First, the shorter hammer fall distance, which you so expertly pointed out with your "computer-generated" graph :)) He had less time to throw the shot. Second, it was harder for him to anticipate when the shot would break. That short-circuited his flinch response. He found he would tend to flinch more often shooting SA. My old eyes had a hard time seeing the differences with the sights, but I agree, after looking at a new Python at the shop, that front sight is too wide.
I also shoot my 2020 Python better DA. The DA pull is so smooth you can't tell when it's going to break and this does cut flinch after 50 or so full house 357 rounds.
It's frustrating that some firearm manufacturers don't put more thought into their sights. I have a couple of revolvers that should be a joy to shoot except the sights are nearly impossible to see. The fact that you have to look for aftermarket sights after paying 1500 for a revolver is ridiculous.
With video, it's all about the timing of the frame capture. And since I only capture frames at 30 per second most of the flashes happen between images. So, it does look like inconsistent ammo but that's not the case. I actually tested that with much higher frame rates. It's in one of my older videos I'm not sure which one.
I read somewhere that if you are reloading and want reliable firing use federal primers I just got a new python a few weeks ago and so far I’ve only had one light primer strike and I did get the Wilson rear sight because the other sight seems like it moved around even though I tightened the little screw on top
I had the same issue with reloads and CCI primers. Switched to federal and no issues. My S&W 686 shoots both CCI and Federal fine. I still prefer my python for fit and finish.
wonderful vidio sir beautiful gun wish i would have spent the 800.00 back in the 70,s but that was a lot of money back then and the price now is not to good either but you always say kick me now sir thanks for sharing
I own a colt trooper in 357 mag. Its was my Dad's service revolver. I can't find a lot of info. on it. Do you know any thing about it? Any info, would be helpful . Thanks
I have around 500 rounds through my three inch , several different brands, no issues at all double or single action. Has become my everyday carry it was an anniversary gift from my wife.
@@TargetSuite My mid-90's 686 has a far superior SA- better in fact than any of my other pistols or revolvers, including some high end 1911's- but the Python DA is far better than the one on my Smith. I only shoot revolvers in DA, so the 686 rarely sees range time since I got the Python a couple years ago.
Really enjoyed this video. I have always wanted a colt python. I have shot the gun on the range but it belonged to someone else. At a gun store they had one and $1497.00 is a lot for a hand gun. Maybe if I win the lotto I could get one or two.
I have misfires in three of my Colts with my reloads using CCI magnum primers. Same in two of my winchester lever guns. CCI should soften their primer cups.
I'm surprised the SA pull and the DA pull on that Python are so close in weight. I have a Ruger SP 101 that I put light springs in, the stock DA pull was over 12 lbs. Now with the light springs the DA pull is ~7.5 lbs, but the SA pull is very light, ~ 2 lbs 3 oz. The gun had some fitting issues. I used a shim kit to tighten up the lengthwise play in the cylinder and the cartridge heads started rubbing on frame, so I had to do some filing to make proper clearance. I had the frame stripped bare to do a full high polish job on it (I hated the brushed finish) so I had no trouble at all clearancing the frame here and there where needed, and there were other bad clearance issues on the frame as well. Basically the factory allowed extra headspace when they built it to keep the cartridge heads from rubbing the frame. When I moved the cylinder back a few thousandths with a shim, that tightened the headspace and so then there was binding. Now the gun has no binding at all and tighter headspace, which makes the firing pin go a little deeper into the primers, and so I have no ignition issues in DA at all, even with the lighter than stock springs. The gun fires any handloads or factory loads 100% reliably. I'm not a gunsmith at all, but I would look at the headspace on that Python. I have no idea if the cylinder can be shimmed back like a Ruger, but I do believe if the headspace can be tightened a few thousandths then the misfires might be cured.
I don't know if it can be shimmed back either but I don't want to increase the barrel cylinder gap. On this gun it's about .003", right where it needs to be
@@TargetSuite Shimming the cylinder does not increase the barrel gap. Shimming takes out excess play. If you measure the gap with the cylinder at rest, that is not the true gap. If you pull the cylinder back rearward against the ejector spring pressure to the point that it stops, that is the gap you will have at the moment the gun is fired because the gas pressure will force the cylinder all the way rearward. Now if you don't have more than 2 or 3 thousandths of movement when you pull the cylinder back, then you have no need for a shim. But if you have say ten thousandths of play, you might be able to shim half of that play out, which would make the cylinder sit more rearward at rest, which would tighten up headspace, which would make the firing pin sink .005" deeper into the cartridge primer, which might cure light strike misfires. Again, barrel gap is not affected at all by shimming the cylinder back. Only headspace changes.
Extra length firing pins are available for many revolvers with the floating pin. I know you can get one for the original Python, S&W's, and some Ruger's as well. The new 2020 version FP can't be serviced at all by the user like the older version can. It's pressed in place at the factory and must be serviced only by them.
Whenever I'm putting a new revolver through it's paces I number the cylinders with a label maker. That way I can keep track of which hole might be causing problems. If the revolver is going to be used for hunting I also shoot each hole for groups (6 shots from hole #1, 6 shots from #2..ect....). Some revolvers show no difference between holes, some show a lot. Great video, thank you!
Thanks for the tip. I did that when I was going through my original pawn shop Ruger single six. And it was helpful.
@@TargetSuite I was forced to buy Promag magizine for my carry piece because you can't buy factory any longer. The Promag WORK! But I missed having numbered witness holes. Sharpe to the rescue!
Wow, I’ve never heard of that, what a good idea.
Very good idea on revolvers, I do it all the time. Nothing fancy, just nail polish. Also number your magazines for semi-autos. It can help narrow down feeding problems.
This is an excellent idea!
Thanks for the great detailed review! I had the same misfire issue with my S&W 500 & my handloads with CCI primers. No misfires with Federal primers.
Very informative video, i inherited a blued 4" Python from my father that was made back in the sixties that was his duty weapon, still shoots great after all these years.
That's fantastic! A great gun with great family history . . . priceless!
Cherish it. My friends Python was his duty sidearm and his son has called "dibs" on it. I was going to offer him $250 for it because it was so old... maybe $300 since we were friends. Hoping he didn't know what it was worth.
@@frankhinkle5772 what a great friend you are!!
@@Tokarev6485 That actually worked for me once, and then I carried that gun for 20 years before he recently asked to buy it back as a family heirloom. Downside; I had to sell it back for the same $250.
@frankhinkle5772 at least you gave it back for what you bought it at. But I would have also let them know how much it was after you gave it back but thats just me.
Thanks for the video. I just love watching a colt in action! You are right about your hand load issue in this testing. I’ve only shot manufacturer ammo and had no misfire issues ever whatsoever with my 2020 python.
I really liked the comparison between single and double action trigger pull back angles. I never really thought about the differences between the 2 angles.
I also liked what you found out about the front vs back site size differences. I never really analyzed that design and the ramifications of the 2 different sizes as it relates to sight picture.
I'll have to look at my pistols and rifles that have sights to see if there is a difference.
I wonder if the size difference is negated/eliminated when the distance becomes greater between the rear and front site when the 2 sites are different sizes.
Very nice video showcasing the new Colt Python. I've always liked the look of the Python, especially the old Royal Blue finish. However, the Smith&Wesson's were always more in my range of affordability. I really appreciate the hammer fall scale that you fabricated. It was an excellent demonstration and something that I hadn't considered. Nice learning experience for me. Thanks for another great and informative video.
Thanks Wayne! It's always good to hear from you!
Wayne you are so right about the Smith & Wesson's being more in the range of affordability! It's been a long time ago but back in 1979 I bought a new Mod 19 Snub at the local gunstore! At the time I was really checking out the Pythons but the Mod 19 was a good bit cheaper than the Python so I bought the 19. Some months later I followed that purchase with a new 4" Mod 19 with the 3 T's and white outline rear sight and red ramp. Over the years I have enjoyed owning the Mod 19's. And over the years I have managed to pick up a few Pythons as well including the new 2020 version Pythons. If they came out with new Python in Royal Blue I would be the first in line at the local gunstore to pick one up. Really it's hard to go wrong with a Smith & Wesson or a Colt revolver. In fact I have never had any kind of failure on a Smith & Wesson or Colt revolver. Maybe I have just been lucky but they have always worked as expected!
@@kickit59 My first Smith was a 6" Model 27 Highway Patrolman back in '75. Really liked that big N Frame, but traded it for a new 3 Screw Ruger Blackhawk 4-5/8". Wish that I had kept that 27, but I could really draw and shoot, accurately, that Single Action out in the South Texas brush country. Next was a S&W Model 13-1 sometime in the early '80's. In the '90's I added a S&W Model 36 Chiefs Special and a Model 49 Bodyguard. I prefer Ruger for Single Action Revolvers, and S&W for DA revolver in my "stables". Never owned a Colt, except a Series 70 Combat Commander for a short time in the late '80's. If I can find a "good deal" on a 1970's era Royal Blue 4" Python, I'll jump on it with my "snake" catcher. 😊 BTW, my first revolver, ever, was a 3 Screw, 7-1/2" Ruger Blackhawk in 30 Carbine that I bought in early 1968. Sold it off before I left for Viet Nam in 1970. I can't remember what my reasoning was but, like a simpleton, I let that sweet baby go. 🤯
@@kickit59 It's really hard to beat that old 4" Model 19 with the 3T's and that great outlined rear sight. I mostly ran 38 Special through it for practice, and a followed up with a few cylinders of 357 to keep in practice with it. Being a K frame I was reluctant to run full loads on a regular basis because of possible timing issues. When I was out in the brush, however, it was loaded with 357 Super Vel, the old factory hot load of the day back then.
@@waynehajek6346 Wayne there are two no actually three revolvers that I sold during financial downturns that today I really regret. One was a Mod 57 41 Magnum 4" blued in the wood presentation case that I bought new at Warshals Sporting Goods in Seattle over 40 years ago. Another was a mid 70's Python 4" Nickel that was still as new in the box. The last was a 4" Blued Mod 27 that was mint with it's box. One day down the road I will get replacements for all three and I'll be pretty happy about that!
Wilson Combat makes super high quality click adjustable target rear and red/green fiber optic front or gold bead. And the rear sight fits tightly into the frame with no side to side play. I shoot reloads in my new Pythons and Anacondas using CCI primers and never have had a failure to fire on double action.
My best trigger pulls on S&W revolvers must have Federal primers to prevent light strikes, so your comment was interesting on the CCIs.
I like the way you showed the difference between double and single action hammer fall of 30 vs 54 degrees! Thanks for another great video
Your experience with the new Colt Python exactly mirrors mine. According to Colt, mine was manufactured in Dec. 2022. I sent it back to Colt and it was returned without any real improvement. CCI 500 primers wouldn't light double action at least 1 out of 6 rds. with my CCI handloads. Remington, and Federal .38 Special factory ammo did fine. Yes it's definitely an ammo queen. Sadly, the only primers that seem currently available are CCI and factory ammo is expensive. I have a few W-W primers and will give them a try. Yes, it does have a couple of "problems". Note. W-W primed handloads worked flawlessly.
Nice revolver. So many good sidearms made and available in the USA. Must be hard to choose which one to buy. Thanks for sharing 🇺🇸 🇳🇿
Yes. We are blessed with lots of choices! Thanks for watching.
No choosing, really, just accumulate as many as seems personally feasible! Colt, Smith, Ruger all part of the selection... Happiness is a full gun safe! If one is into that sort of thing that is to say. Good luck dealing with your leftist government, we're currently struggling with ours, too.... bureaucrats and politicians are not friends of social freedom and individual liberty.
I have an original 6" Python I bought brand new back in the early 80's and now that I'm getting older, the orange front sight is also getting a bit harder to pick up for me. They are a lot tougher to replace on the older Pythons, but I wouldn't change it anyway as I want to keep the gun factory original. I do want to pick up one of the new 4" Pythons as a range gun...I just love the looks of the 4" model. I'm giving Colt a little more time to tweak them out, but the time for me to jump is getting closer... Your video helped that along!👍
Good luck sir. These new pythons aren't perfect but they sure are smooth.
@@TargetSuiteI wonder if these problems are fixed completely now, my birthdays in a few days and my girlfriends looking to get me a 6 inch version, my all time favorite revolver and a dream gun of mine but I wouldn’t want it if it has problems
I can understand how the double-action trigger fall must be shorter, I just didn't realize it's that much shorter. that was an illuminating demonstration, thanks!
Federal primers are the best for revolvers. Had problem with CCIs in any revolver with a nice trigger. Also when installing the primers, seating them flush isn't enough. Seat them fully even if slightly below flush. The energy of the firing pin gets absorbed pushing the primer in. Also using a .22 is not only more economical it improves your double action trigger pull because they have a heavier trigger pull in order to insure ignition of the rim fire cartridges.
Yup.
Good to know, thanks 👍.
That explains it. Thanks.
Great analysis of hammer fall of single vs double action. I have had my eyes on the Colt Python since it was reintroduced. Hopefully some day! Great video and Great shooting!
I tried one of the new model Pythons and I must say with no bias my old model Python made in the 80's has a much smoother trigger pull and very light and crisper single action pull. Oh and that deep rich royal blue that only comes from the old hand picked craftsmen .
I purchased the 6" version last year with ZERO buyer's remorse. Put 85' series Deer Hollow reproduction/original grips, gold bead Wilson Combat front sight and a Wilson Combat rear 'u' sights on the gun. It's perfection. LOVE firing this gun.
I got the exact model in February and had to send it back to fix a cylinder latch binding issue. Colt got it back to me in 3 weeks. Also experienced light primer strikes DA with Speer Lawman 158 gr .38 special but no other brands had that issue. Seems to work as expected now. The fit and finish is excellent now and I’m pleased.
Excellent! Kudos to Colt customer service
I had one of the new Cobra .357 3" and it was a piece of junk, broke just by dry firing, sent to COLT told me it was fixed and I could dry fire, well did so about 30 times and broke again, and then was fixed and I sold it, broke on the new owner, and they sent it to COLT for another repair. I am afraid to buy a COLT PYTHON. It was the trigger would not return and broke. Well I sure hope they got this done RIGHT as I would love a 3" Python yet am afraid to buy a COLT of new make. I had a blue (yes wish they were now in blue favor blue) 3" Python in the 80's or early 90's and never fired it, loved that gun and feel. I carried my personal blue COLT PYTHONG 6" on duty in the late 70's and early 80 before going to a pistol (rules changed). What a wonderful weapon that was an extremely accurate, just oozed confidence.
Very interesting points you raised. I found the different hammer fall length a surprise. Well done, thank you.
Appreciate the video. It was definitely informative and fun to watch. I recently had the opportunity to shoot one of the newer 6 inch barreled pythons and 3 inch barrel pythons that were purchased within a few weeks of each other from my friend. They were purchased very recently and I had no issues shooting several different types of factory ammo. I shot double action and single action without any issues, so I would venture to say has something to do with your reloads where the problem lies. As far as the accuracy went, it was phenomenal with both. Yes I was at an indoor range, and I wasn’t shooting all that far away but both of them shot extremely accurate and I was very surprised with the results of the 3 inch barrel version, as I was a bit nervous shooting full house 357 magnum, but it did not show that much more recoil, as compared to the 6 inch barrel version at least in my opinion. As far as the sights go, Wilson combat as other reviewers have mentioned, makes some excellent sights for these revolvers. In my opinion, colt should be embarrassed and ashamed knowing that another company had to be the ones to come out with better and no issue sights for there most popular revolver that’s $1500.00! Even though I shot both revolvers well with the factory sights, they are not that great and I agree with your assessment! Colt firearms clearly acknowledged a while back that there was issues with the rear sight coming loose and they also acknowledged that Wilson combat made some new sights for these revolvers. I even spoke with their customer service on the phone about this and they laughed and giggled like school kids, instead of taking responsibility and putting on better sights When they realized there was a problem. They could’ve easily put better sights on or even started automatically putting the Wilson combat sights on for people who are spending this kind of money on their revolvers, but instead they know there’s an issue and they let other people spend $150-$200 more to get decent sights put on they’re revolvers and they’re OK with it??? Colt, I hope you’re reading this comment and I hope you understand that eventually people will buy less of your products when you perform this way.
Colt refused to help me with one of their products years ago. I wasn’t looking for a handout; I started the conversation by saying I was willing to pay them handsomely. They drastically mishandled the situation and lost a customer for life because of it. They do not care what happens after the sale; period.
@@RFTwo I certainly can’t blame you for not wanting to deal with him anymore. I am 48 years old and I have to tell you even to this day, Customer Service means more to me than anything else. If I do not feel like I’m respected and treated right especially after I spent money on A company‘s product, then I will never return and I will unleash my feelings. Some of these companies simply do not care about their customers which is sad, wrong and absolutely ridiculous. I called them a couple times about a holster for a python that would show up on their website and simply be gone in a matter of minutes. I called them and discuss this with them a couple times and they couldn’t explain it and couldn’t verify things or answer questions that I had. Then they gave me information that wasn’t correct. I ended up calling the maker of the holster for colt pythons that sent holsters too cold for the pythons. They gave me all the information I needed and could not understand Colts indiscretions about the product. Sigsauer is another one that I’ve had problems with. Most of their customer service People or agents are rude and have no personality whatsoever. They don’t wanna make any effort to answer questions or do anything for you as the customer. And if I call a company and asked to speak to a manager or somebody that I see on TH-cam and I am told that they’re not able to be spoken to, that’s an immediate turn off for me. That is terrible terrible service and they should be embarrassed
My best friend has two 6 inch originals..One blued, one stainless...He needed a little brother for them,, so he found a 6 inch Diamondback .22 in blue...quite the trio.
Sweet!
My recent purchase of the Python (new model) was quite a disappointment. Following is the RMA letter I included with Python sent back to Colt. All identifying info has been scrubbed.
Folks -
I recently took took possession of my new model Python. Upon unpackaging, several issues came to light.
1: The barrel is misaligned to the frame. Looking down the sight window, the front sight is canted to the right. Looking down the muzzle, it’s even more obviously canted to the left. When the barrel was torqued to the frame, it needed to be screwed on the tiniest bit more. Colt QC clearly missed this, but I know you can quickly correct it. Thanks.
2: Python triggers are legendary. My double action trigger is a thing of glory; my single action most definitely is not. I understand positive sear angle, but the single action trigger on this gun draws the hammer almost 1/64” to the rear before a heavy release. Some research suggests that this is done deliberately at the factory to satisfy some absurd California and Massachusetts dropped gun requirements. I live in a Southern state. We like our guns and we don’t drop them. The Colt customer service rep I spoke with said you are not allowed to tune the single action. C’mon guys - I suspect you all have Pythons of your own and that your single action triggers are tuned to perfection. I want that too. I promise to look the other way while a technician mounts the trigger and hammer onto their jig and takes a few passes with a file to make the trigger pull what it can and should be. As Sargent Shultz from “Hogans Hero’s” famously said, “I know nothing!” I want to show this revolver off to my shooting buddies. Right now, I feel I need to apologize for it. This isn’t what either of us wants.
3: There is ~ 0.002 end shake in the cylinder. I’m guessing this is withing spec, but any end shake at all in a premier revolver like this is too much. I plan to shoot this a lot, and the battering the ratchet pad will take will shorten the gun’s life. Please fix this.
I’ve wanted a Python since I started shooting (decades ago). Now I have one. I ask you to please make this the revolver I thought I was buying. I know you can do this.
Thanks and regards,
And what was their reply may I ask ?
"I see nothing..."@@ritesideofthefence5857
I have a 686-2 that someone ground down the mainspring strain screw to make the double action pull lighter.
Same thing; light strikes with some ammo.
I found original parts and put the gun back to stock.
When you were dry firing I thought that double action hammer strike looked weak.
I really wish Colt would put nice wood grips on those.
These are aftermarket grips. I'll get the original wood grips back from Kevin before I make the next video with this gun.
@@TargetSuite i know rubber absorbs recoil better, but the wood grip allows the gun to roll up in the hand.
I guess it's old school cool.
😎
Thanks for another great and very informative video! I also would prefer blued steel but this one is very nice too. Really liked your diagnostics with the toothpicks😊 and sure do appreciate your knowledge and hard work!
Thanks! I always appreciate your comments!
I have a 6" that I upgraded with Wilson Combat Sights, as well as original grips, and I have a 3" also with Wilson sights and service grips. I love them both, but both still have trouble going through my reloads reliably, however, they have no problems with factory ammo. I will say that both did have to go back to the factory. The 6" for a cosmetic issue with a burr inside the trigger guard where the side plate met the frame, and the 3" because one cylinder would fail to rotate in single action, only when loaded. Both are fixed. Both have had those cheap thin smooth grips replaced and the sights as well and they're very accurate and easy to shoot well.
Thanks for your comment. I have a couple of different sights that I'm going to cover in the next video and one of them is that fantastic sight from Wilson Combat.
@@TargetSuite The Wilson sights are a tremendous upgrade from the ACRO style sights on the 2020 PY's and for sure they are worth the cost. I have the gold bead and U notch combination on mine and it is a tack driver.
The Wilson Combat sights are a tremendous improvement over the stock Colt sights. 👍👍👍👍
I agree, Frank. The OEM rear sight on my 2020 Python was not securely mounted. The Wilson sight fits like a glove. Too bad Colt didn’t partner with Wilson, as you expect a revolver of this caliber to have excellent sights, like the first generation did.
I installed Wilson sights on my new Python.
I went with a gold bead for a front sight, their U notch rear sight.
Much better quality.
Still have same sights on my original Python I bought in 1976.
Take care.
Yes! Those Wilson Combat sights are fantastic! WC sent me a set and I will be posting a video about that as soon as the extreme heat has passed.
Most definitely, the colt factory sights were junk!!
My rear sight was missing hardware. Literally fell apart in pieces on the trip home.
Colt sent replacement which I bagged up.
Went with Wilson
I had a 77 Python with the 4 inch barrel and it was a tack driver. Light single action pull and the smoothest double action pull I’ve ever shot. A S&W 686 with a lot of gunsmith work comes a little close.
I also owned a classic Python. The DA was like glass. The new ones don't compare.
VERY close, but no cigar!
I'm more wheel gun curious than an old pro. I thought your best info was at the back related to DA vs SA and the misfires. Good stuff!
I have an old royal blue Python 6" barrel, highly accurate. Haven't looked at the new version. Looks nice. Love that model 17!! Envious. LOL
Another very good video! Very informative as usual. Always enjoy learning about guns even ones I don’t own.
👍
Good title and as others have said, federal primers are softer. I’ve had problems with older Colt Detective Specials in double action, but not with federal ammo.
Interesting! As you know I'm new to this double action shooting game so there's a lot for me to learn here.
As always, very informative. Always good to see you my friend. Beautiful revolver. I never like red for the color of the front sight post either. Being partially color blind to red and green, in low light conditions, I don't pick up the red. White is the only color of front sight I use.
Thanks Max. It's good to hear from you as well!
Colt still has some work to do on this gun. It’s definitely not up to acceptable standards yet. Especially considering the price.
Some of your best camera work by far. Those close-ups of the Python, with the soft jazz in the background... MmmmmMMMMm.
Thanks!
Anxious to see if you can get your hands on one of the new Henry revolvers, and review it. I'm looking forward to the TH-cam community's thoughts.
I’ve got a few .357 Mags ,I have no need another but some you need to own because there simply a work of art!
I appreciate the comments in this video, interesting thing about the "Primers" and the Strike-hammer travel vs wight and trigger pull. Some worth considering when it come to an unwanted Emergency!!
😎🤙
👊👊
I bought a King recently and same problem in DA (10 out of a 100, using factory 38 and 357)and immediately sent it back and a month later I got it back. Have not taken to the range but the pull feels harder. Maybe CZ can help them with their triggers. I watched your video completely and I like your competence and you have a new sub.
I hope the new ones are better than the old ones. I had 2 of them, the first was right out of the Colt Custom shop bought in '77. It was fragile jumping out of time and accuracy suffered, the forcing cone needed work and it would drag and jam when dirty. I also experienced FTF with it. It looked beautiful but I wouldn't bet my life on it. I'm not impressed by safe queens so I sold it and bought a standard Python in '82 and experienced the exact same problems. I sold that one 3 years later and bought a Trooper MkIII and after shooting it extensively IMHO it was twice the revolver the Python was. In later years I also bought a M66 S&W and a Ruger GP100 and a used Speed 6 also found it's way into my hands, all better weapons than the 2 Pythons I owned.
My Ruger GP100 is a workhorse. Not as pretty as a Python but darn tough and comfortable to shoot. I have a 4.2 inch .357 stainless.
The PROBLEM was those PYTHONS were made TOO recently. The OLD COLTS are the BEST, when they still had COMPETENT SKILLED GUNSMITHS STILL. COLT used to DOMINATE the OLYMPIC SHOOTING TOURNAMENTS BACK IN THE EARLY PART OF THE CENTURY. 🤔😯😉😃😃😃
Ken I'm curious if you have tried the new Kimber .357 revolvers. Expensive yes (1200 bucks), but MAN Im having a great shooting experience with the Kimber. Give one a try.
Pythons were for show, King Cobras were for duty. Owned each, and still own a blued 357 KC because it's just a better tool.
Been there done that myself. IMO the only purpose I see for a python is as a safe queen.
Yup . Me n my buddy have been plinking .22lr and my gp100. . . You are totaly corect, great plinking. Greg
Does that have a flat hammer spring, that you can put more tension on? (Idk about revolvers) but my 1886 chiappa 45/70 needed a skosh more flat hammer spring tension.
Thanks! My wife and I moved to a cabin in a woodsy neighborhood (not the highest income 'hood but I find it amazing) where our back property line is shared with the Ocala National Forest. For pistols I was down to a Walther CCP 9mm. I'd always wanted a Python esp. after owning what seemed like an old Ruger knockoff that was easy to let a thumb slip off the tough hammer which, once, went off as it slipped, despite being almost all the way down. I hate it when people say, "That can't happen", because it did (I shouldn't have tried, as my hand was a bit hurt). Maybe it didn't have a transfer bar. I got myself a 6" barrel as a compromise between practicality and playing modern cowboy (more practical for me than a SAS, and I like sighting 5.5 and 6" revolvers) and the wife a 4.25". I considered a Viper for her but she's not tiny, likes durability and substance, and I'd spotted a pair of torso holsters I liked meant just for Pythons. We're excited to take them to the range and found this very informative!
My Old Man got me a Colt for my 18th Birthday. Never had a miss fire. I have trigger pulls, written down somewhere, on everything I own . 7lbs seems about right but 5lbs sucks. More like 2.5. The first 6 months I owned it I had been loading cast 158 swc max loads. YES George Hard Cast. I cleaned the mold one day and found out they' were 168. Kicked a little more than expected. But not like what was soon to follow. My Dads best friend had moved out to Idaho and became good buddies with one of the locals. When He told this old cowboy I just got a new Colt, He immediately loaded up a whole RG Dunn cigar box full. When we got it I fired 2 rounds and my Dad 1. It got buried in the swamp. Moral of the story don't shoot other peoples hand loads and sometimes your own.
As you panned the revolver around the crown does not even look perfectly round.
Little details like that is what gets me on these high end revolver like Python and S&W.
French still make the best revolver and in US Ruger GP and SP are affordable, one peace body that is overbuilt and works every time with exceptional customer service.
Yes hammer needs some shimming out of factory and some details on what you get can be off but generally Ruger GP100 with 5 inch barrel in my to go.(Davidson Edition).
Sometimes shinny and pretty is not always better.)
Great review.Nice Revolver definitely.
The Python is the best looking revolver ever made. As for a daily use gun, the original Python was too delicate. Colt beefed up the frame and internal parts to be more rugged in the new Pythons so it's not as delicate as the original. They're beautiful revolvers but I'd pick a Ruger GP100 357 over the Colt because any gun I own is going to be used and the GP100 is the strongest, most rugged DA revolver made. I'll still say that the Python is the best looking DA revolver ever made by any company. Even people that know nothing about guns will recognize the Python. But I'll always take function over fashion. Most 1911 enthusiasts would fall over dead if they saw my 4" 1911 45. Two different grip panels and a lot of grip tape. She's not the prettiest pistol around but I set her up to fit my hands and shooting style perfectly. As long as she goes boom every time I pull the trigger I'm not concerned about looks. I'd do the same with a Python or a $10,000 Wilson Combat Custom 1911. Looks won't save your life.
I like your style! While I really appreciate craftsmanship, as an engineer I also really appreciate function.
IMO the nickle plated 27 outshines the Python in looks, but when I bought my first duty gun I passed on a used Indiana state police python for new Ruger Security Six. I kept that until I was issued a Smith model 64.
Speaking as a Smith & Wesson revolver fanatic, I must admit that you are 100% absolutely, totally and completely correct!
great Video! Hey, that S&W 17 is a bit off! The barrel can't be in the frame straight - look how radically right the rear sight is adjusted. Maybe you were shooting at desperados in storm 😁😁 Wider rear sight blade for the Python should be a great help. Have a metallic silhouette pistol somewhere that has a rear sight with four notches. Just pull back & turn the blade insert 90° to rotate through the four options. Front sight blade (no ramp) was quick change too, I think it just took a small allen, or it was push a plunger with an allen or pin/rod to release. Might have to go dig around and look that one up.
I had the same problem on some harder primers. Milled about .005” off the hammer stop so it engages the transfer bar a little more and no more problems. 11:25
Not sure if a certain brand primer cup that is slightly thinner would help the double action light taps. Im not certain but I always thought the magnum primer cups were thicker slightly than that of the standard small pistol primer cups.
I could be wrong on all of it though.
I hope they can keep the screws from falling out.
Great video. I bought a brand-new Colt Python wearing walnut grips in 1962. I was using 38 special ammo and was not impressed with the accuracy. I went to my gunsmith and asked him what I was doing wrong, because this gun was supposed to be very accurate. He said try shooting 357 ammo and see if there’s any difference. I did and sure enough I rotated between 38 special wad cutters and 357 mag ammo and the 357 ammo outshot the 38 special wad cutters buy a bunch. He said the gun was designed to shoot 357 but can accommodate 38 special ammo.
At the same time, I bought a Colt Diamond back 38 special. With 38 special wad cutters I shot fantastic groups, better than the Colt Python with 357 ammo.
I put both in a gorgeous wood case with a glass top and they looked like a matched set.
Glass case, wow. Do you wank after polishing them?
I have had double action pistols that wouldn't fire ammo with hard primers , but fired if you pulled the hammer back .
Great video and gun . You have a blessed one my friend .
Thank you Spencer!
I have owned 4 Pythons in my. 60+ years of skills and accuracy development. I love some S&W’s (especially older recessed cylinder models) and some of the quality built Ruger products. The Python is at the top of the heap. I have my eye on the new model 3” if I can break open the wallet.
I noticed a large yellow muzzle flash on occasion and it didn't differ from reloads to factory loads.
Iv had the same problem with CCI primers. pistol and rifle. ifs the Nickle coating makes them harder to set off. My BLR 308 will not set off any cci 200 or 250's at all.
Thanks for corroborating my theory. I appreciate it!
I appreciate the shorter DA vs longer SA data points. Makes sense but I had never heard it before. Even an old dog can learn new information. Thanks
I had a Colt Python and I didn't really care for the action on the gun and on top of that the cylinder spins backwards on rotation but it is a very attractive piece you want a superior gun buy a Smith & Wesson model 27 or Model 66 you will be much happier
Your misfires were handloads…so it was definitely components. My 2023 python has been flawless so far…until it gets dirty.
Lighter hammer inertia in DA mode. If I wanted a Python, it'd be an original from 1980's to 1990's.
Great job, can't wait for the next video
I am happy that your new Python has excellent fit and finish. I was so excited when the King Cobra was released that I bought one sight unseen in 2019. It was far from perfect. The trigger reset had multiple clicks and sometimes the trigger didn’t engage properly. Colt “customer service” claimed the gun was working as intended. I rarely sell a firearm but that one is gone and I have no regrets.
I have more than one Colt double action revolver made in 1960 or earlier. There is no comparison between those fine firearms and that 2019 King Cobra. None.
Mine was a rattletrap piece of trash too.
@chipsterb4946 I get what you're saying. This one is really polished up nice, and it has a fantastic double action trigger pull, but the rear sight has .015" of slop, side to side, the front sight and single action pull are like something you would find on a Taurus or worse. At least the bone are there.
My new Python is awesome in every way except the sights are crap. I ordered the Wilson Combat sights for it and am anxiously awaiting there arrival. I think that will make it better. My only complaint is that you shouldn't have to replace the sights on a new 1500 dollar pistol. Colt needs to do better than that.
CZ did a nice job on this revolver.
A great job might justify the price.
To be fair outside of Germany, Switzerland, Belgium and Italy, CZ of Czech Republic is the best firearm manufacturer of Europe.
The revolver existed before CZ purchased the company, and the new Colt Python was designed by Americans and assembled by Americans in America. Why are you giving Colt all the credit?
How so? They are ammo sensitive. Revolvers arent supposed to be ammo sensitive. These are NOT reliable.
@ACTIONABLE INTELLIGENCE still have had 0 issues with Ruger GP100 and Blackhawk .357 Magnum or Ruger LCR .327 Federal Magnum. Even old .32 S&W loads from the 40s fired in that LCR.
My wife has a Colt's Detective Special revolver that exhibits a similar problem with double action shooting. Sometimes the rounds will not fire even with factory ammunition. But single action the gun will firee every time. Your illustration of the difference in hammer fall between double action and single action may help explain the reason.
We have replaced the hammer spring - twice - and the problem persisists. I think there is a timing problem on Colt's DA revolvers sometimes that causes hammer fall to be cushioned in DA but not in SA.
Has anyone else seen this? Is there a gunsmith who is familiar with this phenomennon? If so, who is he?
Hello Sir! Discovered your channel today, liked and subscribed! Really loved watching this, no BS and practical insights into one of the most iconic, modern handguns. Warm regards from Malta, Europe!
Welcome aboard! You are the first of my viewers to identify as being from Malta!
What brand primers do you use in your hand loads?
Maybe the gun doesn't like hard primers like for instance CCI....
Yep. I covered that in the video.
It might be interesting to cover the venerable Dan Wesson, which dominated Metallic Silhouette shooting for a decade.
You may need to use that in the future to prevent the British Crown from taking it from you. Someone wants them and I think the crown is involved.
Thank you George. I'm glad Colt still alive even more with Zeska blood. Hopefully Colt will run better and expo sales will help the Co. Keep it up George.
👍
Never owned a Colt Snake Gun, but plenty of Smith and Wesson 586 "s and 686"s never had a Problem with either, shooting Reloads or Factory ammo and never did so called trigger Jobs....
12:30 typically S&W quality. I have a 686 that has to have the rear sight maxed out to the right just to hit point of aim and that's only one of many issues the gun has. I should have gone with the Python.
Good eyes. So far you're the only one to comment on that. And it is due to the fact that the barrel is not clocked correctly. It needs to be turned clockwise from the target's point of view about 5°. That will eliminate that offset sight blade.
@@TargetSuite Mine was overclocked by about 2 to 3 degrees. I got that fixed and it didnt have that much impact on the site position. I also have barrel restriction so shooting lead is out. 2 of the 6 chambers dont pass an alignment rod. Timing was off from factory as well. Forcing cone was extremely rough. Contacted S&W twice and they never got back to me. I will never buy a new S&W ever again. Thanks for the cool Python video. Looks like a nice revolver.
Thanks! Timing is good on this one but I do think I will recut that forcing cone.
I have three Smiths, a 24, 625, and 64 all are dead on and absolute joy to shoot. Most times Smith will fix problem guns from what I have heard, contact them. The only complaint I have is the 64 came with a bobbed hammer, which makes holster selection for old duty rigs difficult as the strap does not secure the gun.
you were shooting factory 38 special. Where the hand loads 38 or 357?
357 magnum.
Thanks for the video. I have a 3-inch. Very nice gun (coming from a S&W fan). I shoot mine DA. It has a very nice DA stroke. I shoot heavy-loaded .38 Specials (AKA: Skeeter loads) in mine. I augmented the sights with front/rear Wilson sights with a gold bead up front. Service stocks and a Tyler T-grip make it a perfect belt gun. Mine is new and looks as though all of the teething issues have been resolved.
Great video, was their an update? I used the search but no luck. What a beautiful revolver, this video has sold me on the beauty with the close up.
Yeah.... The Colt Python is very nice. Beautiful in fact. Fit and finish is top notch. I saw one at one of my local stores, looked it over, and was impressed. Then I saw the price tag,... ouch! A few minutes later I was at another store where I saw a S&W 686. Not as polished, but it'll get the job done, and for a lot less. Now I have a 686. After 150 rounds and some dry fire practice, the trigger is becoming very good.
Interesting and informative video George, thank you. I have been intrigued with and wanting a Colt Python ever since I saw the 1973 movie Electra Glide In Blue when I was 9 or 10. Big John Wintergreen's (Robert Blake) Python in the "Pinto" finish with the blued frame and nickel cylinder and barrel was the neatest looking revolver I had ever seen. Still haven't bought myself one, but maybe one day I will. For whatever reason the new stainless Python just doesn't seem to scratch the itch, maybe with the deep blue finish it might.
Thanks for your comment. And you know what? The more I handle this the less intrigued I am. It's just not the same as the older royal blue pythons. I know even those older guns had some problems but the Mystique was there!
@@TargetSuite Yes indeed, the old royal blue finish was a thing of beauty and I don't think the mystique will ever go away or be replaced. I haven't fired an original Python in 40 years but I remember the experience. A Fort Worth police officer that was a friend of my dads let me shoot his and it was a pleasure. Thank you for the reply.
I would tend to agree 💯😎🤙
Love this gun so much but not for $1600, ended up buying a S&W 686 plus 7 shot for almost half. But still love the Python and Anaconda.
They all need:
Wilson Combat sites.
Removal of serrations from trigger.
Chamfer chambers.
Relieve the left grip panel to better position speed-loaders.
George, Great video on a fantastic gun, but that Smith and Wesson model 17 Combat Masterpiece stole the show!...those are magnificent in every sense of the word! ....just my 2c worth.....Best Regards D.
Picked up a new anaconda last Saturday. Got it home and tried sighting it in and just couldnt. With the rear sight all the way to the right, it was still shooting left. So I sat there looking it over really closely, and noticed the barrel wasn't turned in even with the frame. Which was slightly canting the front sight. So, luckily I can do basic work myself and turned the barrel and frame to align them better. It's not 100 percent perfect, but it's as close as human hands can get to it. Now shoots proper and dead center. Just sad colt couldn't get it right before it left the factory, especially on a gun that costs this much
Amen!
I just got one of the blued python's. Love it. Don"t forget uaw workers, sometimes do shoddy work.
Nice video, George! I think your new nickname, if you keep on shooting magnum loads all the time, should be, "Flinch." That's what I'd be doing after shooting that many rounds.
Ross Seyfried wrote some great articles on SA vs DA shooting. He found he was inherently more accurate shooting DA for two reasons. First, the shorter hammer fall distance, which you so expertly pointed out with your "computer-generated" graph :)) He had less time to throw the shot. Second, it was harder for him to anticipate when the shot would break. That short-circuited his flinch response. He found he would tend to flinch more often shooting SA. My old eyes had a hard time seeing the differences with the sights, but I agree, after looking at a new Python at the shop, that front sight is too wide.
I also shoot my 2020 Python better DA. The DA pull is so smooth you can't tell when it's going to break and this does cut flinch after 50 or so full house 357 rounds.
Tom, I hadn't thought about the double action lack of flinch but I think you are spot on. Now I'm really motivated😉
@@TargetSuite I'll send you my usual bill. :))
It's frustrating that some firearm manufacturers don't put more thought into their sights. I have a couple of revolvers that should be a joy to shoot except the sights are nearly impossible to see. The fact that you have to look for aftermarket sights after paying 1500 for a revolver is ridiculous.
I agree.
Why were there a few muzzle flashes with the handloads, and mostly none?
With video, it's all about the timing of the frame capture. And since I only capture frames at 30 per second most of the flashes happen between images. So, it does look like inconsistent ammo but that's not the case. I actually tested that with much higher frame rates. It's in one of my older videos I'm not sure which one.
@@TargetSuite OK, gotcha. That makes sense. Nice pistol. Always loved the Pythons. I agree, I would prefer them in a blued version.
I read somewhere that if you are reloading and want reliable firing use federal primers I just got a new python a few weeks ago and so far I’ve only had one light primer strike and I did get the Wilson rear sight because the other sight seems like it moved around even though I tightened the little screw on top
I had the same issue with reloads and CCI primers. Switched to federal and no issues. My S&W 686 shoots both CCI and Federal fine. I still prefer my python for fit and finish.
wonderful vidio sir beautiful gun wish i would have spent the 800.00 back in the 70,s but that was a lot of money back then and the price now is not to good either but you always say kick me now sir thanks for sharing
You are welcome!
I wonder if the shorter hammer rise lets the transfer bar lower also...
Just colt being colt; low to mid-tier performance with a top-tier price.
Certainly NOT the Staccato price it?
I own a colt trooper in 357 mag. Its was my Dad's service revolver. I can't find a lot of info. on it. Do you know any thing about it? Any info, would be helpful . Thanks
I'm not a big Colt historian. So, like you, I would have to Google it.
Very interesting video. Was curious about the new Pythons. Not in the market for another revolver right now, but this is good to know.
I have around 500 rounds through my three inch , several different brands, no issues at all double or single action. Has become my everyday carry it was an anniversary gift from my wife.
Excellent review as usual. How about a side by side comparison with the S&W 686.
Great idea. I'll see if I can round one up.
@@TargetSuite My mid-90's 686 has a far superior SA- better in fact than any of my other pistols or revolvers, including some high end 1911's- but the Python DA is far better than the one on my Smith. I only shoot revolvers in DA, so the 686 rarely sees range time since I got the Python a couple years ago.
Have the same 4 incher. Absolutely the finest.
Got a old school blue 6 inch from the day. Love that one too.
Great review.
Thanks. I appreciate that!
Really enjoyed this video. I have always wanted a colt python. I have shot the gun on the range but it belonged to someone else. At a gun store they had one and $1497.00 is a lot for a hand gun. Maybe if I win the lotto I could get one or two.
I owned an older blue python 6" but sold it due to timing issues.failure to fire bought a new 4.25" and hand polished it just too pretty to shoot now
I have misfires in three of my Colts with my reloads using CCI magnum primers. Same in two of my winchester lever guns. CCI should soften their primer cups.
I'm surprised the SA pull and the DA pull on that Python are so close in weight. I have a Ruger SP 101 that I put light springs in, the stock DA pull was over 12 lbs. Now with the light springs the DA pull is ~7.5 lbs, but the SA pull is very light, ~ 2 lbs 3 oz. The gun had some fitting issues. I used a shim kit to tighten up the lengthwise play in the cylinder and the cartridge heads started rubbing on frame, so I had to do some filing to make proper clearance. I had the frame stripped bare to do a full high polish job on it (I hated the brushed finish) so I had no trouble at all clearancing the frame here and there where needed, and there were other bad clearance issues on the frame as well. Basically the factory allowed extra headspace when they built it to keep the cartridge heads from rubbing the frame. When I moved the cylinder back a few thousandths with a shim, that tightened the headspace and so then there was binding. Now the gun has no binding at all and tighter headspace, which makes the firing pin go a little deeper into the primers, and so I have no ignition issues in DA at all, even with the lighter than stock springs. The gun fires any handloads or factory loads 100% reliably. I'm not a gunsmith at all, but I would look at the headspace on that Python. I have no idea if the cylinder can be shimmed back like a Ruger, but I do believe if the headspace can be tightened a few thousandths then the misfires might be cured.
I don't know if it can be shimmed back either but I don't want to increase the barrel cylinder gap. On this gun it's about .003", right where it needs to be
@@TargetSuite Shimming the cylinder does not increase the barrel gap. Shimming takes out excess play. If you measure the gap with the cylinder at rest, that is not the true gap. If you pull the cylinder back rearward against the ejector spring pressure to the point that it stops, that is the gap you will have at the moment the gun is fired because the gas pressure will force the cylinder all the way rearward. Now if you don't have more than 2 or 3 thousandths of movement when you pull the cylinder back, then you have no need for a shim. But if you have say ten thousandths of play, you might be able to shim half of that play out, which would make the cylinder sit more rearward at rest, which would tighten up headspace, which would make the firing pin sink .005" deeper into the cartridge primer, which might cure light strike misfires. Again, barrel gap is not affected at all by shimming the cylinder back. Only headspace changes.
You are right. And I knew that. I was just going through comments too fast and not paying attention😉
Extra length firing pins are available for many revolvers with the floating pin. I know you can get one for the original Python, S&W's, and some Ruger's as well. The new 2020 version FP can't be serviced at all by the user like the older version can. It's pressed in place at the factory and must be serviced only by them.
When I saw the thumbnail for this I thought, "Holy cow, Ernest Borgnine has a Python!"
Great info here 🤙🏾
Common issue with CCI primers, rifle and pistol primers. I wont use them unless it is all I have.
I would have marked the cylinders that were problematic. Were they visibly light strikes?