I stumbled upon a very good load for my Python. MP Brass HP mold # 359 125 with the large HP pins. Powder coated Eastwood Ford light blue and sized to .357 on top of 13.0 grains of Hodgdons H110. Of course I decided to use Starline 357 magnum brass because my Python has a 357 cylinder. Anyway this load in my vintage 71 Python put 4 of the 6 shots in the same ragged hole at 10 yards. All six shots created a 1.4” group in my opinion that’s a hell of a revolver. Definitely a testament to those men and women that crafted these fine revolvers. I know mine will go to my son when it’s time.
Thanks, Elmer designs are state of the art even today. They also shoot very well at 50 yards. I cast them with 3% tin 3% antimony for 900-1000 fps and water quench for 1000+ and no leading. Touch 'em off and they feel like 357 magnums. I don't shoot them in my Python anymore. Lyman 4 cavity mold has served me very well for 35 years. Lee doesn't make molds for this bullet - that is a real shame.
TheSocalmarine-Your Colt Trooper is a very fine pistol in its own right. Any of the Colt's of recent times is a wonderful example of gun making and craftsmanship. You are no lower eschelon shooter with a Trooper...Best Regards to you from the HLZ...
tony shumway - If it wasn't for PPC shootin, I never would have gotten this gun - reason was they cost more. But I am so glad that I got this and more glad as time passes by it seems... Best to ya, FC
oh, man - you are so lucky to have that beautiful Python. It was never cheap, but man, the prices are just through the roof now (if you can find them). I just got myself the Colt Trooper (poor man's python).
Thanks for comment. Elmer Keith was the father of the 44 and 41 Magnums. His bullet designs are distinctive 1) heavy 2) long nose 3) wide meplat 4) wide forward driving band sharp shoulder 3) 3 equal width driving bands 4) beveled crimp groove 5) generous square grease groove. For 38/357, the Keith design is 172 grains long nose. Authentic Keith design in 38/357, 41, 44 not available to buy - mystery - we have to cast them - Lyman, SAECO or RCBS molds. Some genuine 45 Keith are for sale.
Thanks for this nice video! I just won an auction. Python from 1972. Waiting for the buying permit took forever. Bullets are already casted, lots of (semi)wadcutters. Powder is ordered. Presses and dies waiting, along with about 6000 primed cases. Time to roll on.
Norman Reppingen nice hearing from ya, Norm..!! Big congrats on your auction win. Many would tell you that you have a collectible gun investment there that should not be fired. Colt will never be able to produce those guns again as the level of gunsmithing expertise required no longer exists - even with remaining left over parts. That is one reason price values on existing guns keeps rising. I shot lots and lots of target wadcutters in mine and the gun is still like new. But if you shoot heavy magnums steadily in yours, you can definitely degrade the value. Any mod you do to your gun is like poison. Today, unfired Pythons with all papers in original boxes would be worth multiple thousand dollars. Of course you know all these things already or you would not have bid on it. Here’s wishing you great joy of Python ownership..!! FC Steve
Thank you so much, very kind! I hope you did enjoy your trip to europe, have seen some nice footage from Italy. ;-) I want to conserve the snake as good as possible, but also do not want to cease shooting it (i myself had no opportunity till now). It has been shot, a bit hard to tell how much, not a lot of visible signs of use, nearly no dirt even in hard to clean places. I think i will feed it with loads leaning more toward the .38 Special realm. Do not want to put a lot of factory ammo through it. The price tag for factory .357 is rather unpleasant anyway. Looking down the bore of the Python i was astonished to see a lot of machining tracks / traces whatsoever, mainly on the lands, with the pits being more mirror like. Whereas the barrel of the Sig P226 LDC is like one shiny mirror both on pits and lands. Even the bore of my 98k looks way more smooth. So i am not very certain if my Python will be able to digest cast bullets without leading. Will see. As long as i get it out... but i am a bit more optimistic with the Sig P226 when it comes to cast bullets. At least for the leading part. Precisionwise, i would not take a bet, the Sig has been giving 18 mm groups from 10 shots at 27 yards. With 95 Grain Magtech. Despite a 4.4 inch barrel. Hard to beat. I am curious how all of this will play out, the long waiting period is coming to an end. :-)
Ronald Darnell- Welcome to the Hot Lead Zone - I can imagine how beautiful that pistol is - congratulations to you - high cost, but quality will keep...Best Regards...
+András Horváth (Drutar) - The Python is one of the finest production handguns ever made anywhere. The S&W M27 is the other high end classic and much more affordable at this time. And the S&W 686 and Combat Magnum are also primo. You have good tastes - I'm sure glad I have mine... Best Regards ... FC
+András Horváth (Drutar) -- I don't have a SAA. Have Rugers and Beretta Stampedes instead - If I close my eyes with those Berettas, I can get the feel of shooting a Colt...but I could buy five Berettas for the one Colt. Can't blame anyone for wanting a Python or SAA though - they are fine guns... Best Regards, FC
+JBBooks4440 - and great heaps of congratulations to ya on owning those fine revolvers. They will increase in value faster than inflation - one of the best working investments we will make. We should always consider ourselves fortunate and satisfied to have them... Colt is in Chapter 11 - they have lost market share but not desirability. Best Regards to ya -- FC
I own 4 Colt Pythons and 3 SW 686 and 1 Colt Trooper Mk3 I have to beg the differ the faster of the 3 is SW 686 target or hunting. Colt designs are elegant beautiful bluing and of course that single action trigger. At first i bought the 686 as a shooter in the late 80's early 90's but in all honesty after I tuned my 686 with JM trigger springs polished some parts I say SW 686 is has a faster reset return and users abuse hunting like wise target. Both are solidly built except one was @$250 back then $750 now, the other is $3K+ plus bidding experience. The new Python I don't know I shot it it felt like those modern stainless shooters with Colt Horse stamped on it. 6 shots 1 hole dime size at 60 feet Sportmans Warehouse 1st $300 prize. I say Smith is my hog deer and target reviover for the last 31 years 8&3/8" barrel
have one also ,elison sight with rubber grips ,have won a lot of matches with that beauty ,plates ,pins ,and everything else. Like you I have mine a long time .Probably my favorite firearm of all
mark cooper - Great point you make there. If I had to bug out with one gun and a 50 cal ammo can of ammo - I'd be grabbing my bag, my Python and that box full of 357 mag and selected 38 ammo. If I could grab two guns, the 2nd one would be my S & W 686+ Pro Series. Best Regards...
..l used to have 2-Colt Pythons..a 6" and a 2" barrel... Had to sell one and it was like choosing between 2-sons who to send to a labour conscription camp.. ' chose to keep the 6"-barrel.. Will miss the 2" till my dying day..
Actually, I'm heading outside to ingot the latest pile of range scrap that I picked up last weekend. I think my next cast project will be to do a passel of .44 245 gr. Keiths. I might want to do a video on Keith bullets unless you do one first. There are NO videos on Keith style cast bullets as far as I can tell.
+Richard Cuadra -- The movie Magnum Force was the second of the Dirty Harry series and one of the stars in that was the Python revolver. Harry Callahan in the movie actually complimented the Python during the range scenes. David Soul in one of the roles went on to Starsky and Hutch. The Python was in numerous other Cop shows back in that time period as well. This is a fun comment you made. Have a great day, FC
I used to own this revolver in the UK before that privalage was taken away from me like every government in the world wants,I had to hand mine in and apparently they cut mine up !! but without a doubt at the time the best revolver out there, a pleasure to own and shoot , The old addage that you can't hit a barn door with a revolver HA !! , I know what I could do with mine target shooting , and this shows exactly that , but I am never ever allowed to own one again , Thanks BIG BROTHER
alan manning - There's an injustice there…Many here feel that society would be safer without guns. But many also feel that if guns are banned, then freedom is lost. I'd put myself in the latter and not the former. Thanks for posting your important comment… Best Regards
I traded mine for a Smith and Wesson Model 29 "Dirty Harry" gun. Mine had some timing issues so I never regretted the swap. Exploding bowling pins with the 44 was entertaining.
+jeffie8696 -- The bowling pins we get around here are plastic coated and those rascals just absorbed bullets - didn't matter what you shot them with - they just either allowed bullets to pass right through or simply absorbed them...If you were a later shooter, it was tougher to clear the table because the pins had lead in 'em... Best to ya, FC
At 150 yards use a 1/8" front sight holdover. you WILL hit a 1 pound coffee tin consistantly. The 296 Winchester powder at 16 grains will deliver almost no leading and no unburned powder residue in your barrel.
+Gregory Mahaits -- You must be using 158 grain bullets with that 16 grainer charge, because I stoke 125 JHPs with 22 grains of 296. Either bullet so loaded is a mean lights out son of a gun.... Best to ya, FC
Brian Kim-Balance of any long gun is best when center of mass is right between the hands. But with handguns, balance is all subjective individual to the shooter. If you like the balance of the 6", then it is good for you. Same if you like the 4". Certainly, the 6" is heavier and controls recoil better and has more MV. But the 4" will move faster and will seem to point quicker. But will be a little flippier with magnums…Best Regards...
2nd reply - Pythons are real deal. Keith bullets in 357 cases too long for shorter Python cylinder. No problem with S&W and Ruger cylinders. For Python, we have to crimp over front driving band to work or use 38 cases. Keith bullets are hard cast and do not rely on expansion to do job, but rather by shock and superior penetration. Keith used to shoot sharks by aiming 2 feet in front and 1 foot down from fin protruding from water and Keith bullet did the job - 30/06 rifle bullets would not.
Tiaan Malan - If in mint condition 1956, I'd just guess that the price would be in the area of $1500-$1600, but I'd check on what others are getting on GunBroker or look it up in the Blue Book of Gun Values if I ran into one like yours (the nickel may even make it more valuable). And the original box is neat. That was only a guess. You have a very desirable gun there....
Brian Kim- depends on what you want or perceive that you need. The 6" is great for hunting, the 4" for portability and handiness. I would not recommend the 2 1/2" snubby Python...
Mint condition in a used/fired Colt Python! I don't really know how did you manage to keep it in such an extraordinary shape, but nice job with its maintenance instead of having it as a safe queen, sir! (I know they're like investments and value will rise over 3-4K $, but for me, the meaning of guns is that they're born for shooting them, not for exclusively being virgin safe queens, even if it makes them loose most or all of its value). Do you rub the Python with gun grease or wax to keep it almost like NIB as when it left Colt's Factory?
Very informative. I've owned .38spl's and Pythons for many years and I've never heard of Keith style cartridges. Thanks for the information. Do you know who sells these type? Are these cartridges expensive? I'd like to see a video comparison of the traditional .38spl and the Keith style.
Flynn88MN - Interesting - just a couple of days ago, I was watching shooting excerpts from Magnum Force on TH-cam videos. Classic stuff with Harry at the police range with the 4 young cop perpetrators and at the police shooting competition - after Harry lost, he wanted to check out Patrolman Davis' Python and cleans three targets putting one round into a door jam "Missed with one shot..." And Davis says to him "You'll get used to it..." The Python was one of the stars of the movie - but often overlooked (just like the M70 Winchester in the first Dirty Harry). Best to ya, FC
how are you doing I recently came across a 1975 python I noticed it has the same marks or scratches on the left side on the front and behind the trigger is that from the factory
Tiaan Malan- That's one video I want to see. And for sure, grandpa's Python should stay in the family - you might even include a photo of your grandpa, your dad, and yourself - and keep with the gun so someday-your grandchild will be enjoying that gun and have the history there also…Best Regards to ya...
Colt is actually considering producing these again. Seems they have a crap ton of parts still shelved. So if only they'd stop sucking so bad. We might see them offered again.
+The human shrug. -- The demand is so high, that Colt is going to be able to ask big money for them...The old ones will still be valuable - Keep the supply down and Colt can clean up... Best to ya... FC
+The human shrug. -- Ah!!! The Colts - I could have done very good for myself if I had bought a Trooper, Diamondback, Anaconda, a couple of Gold Cups, Match Target Woodsman...a couple of more Pythons... and not have let my Colt Cobra slip from my fingers.... Looking back is easy... Best to ya, FC
+Gregory Mahaits -- Nice trajectory...A Colt Python was one of the guns in an old article on survival handguns in one of my old Gun Digests - should dig that rascal out some time... Best to ya, FC
+abu zaben - You have good tastes in firearms, abu zaben!! May your acquisition bring you the joy and pleasure that other Python owners have found... Have a great day... -- FC
Tom M And your Python would be a spectacular choice for one gun - The versatility of the 357 magnum is unmatched. We can shoot all the way down to 22LR substitute stuff up to 180 grain bear loads...Happy Holidays to ya...
VuckoVux-Thanks for the comment - many would agree because guns whisper seductively to us..."Come to me...Come to me...I am power and privilege...I'm real...I've shown you that you can trust me...and I won't let you down..." Some hard stuff to resist...
Haha I understand thanks! I meant Colt Puthon 357 lol I heard that many leagally armed citizens are armed with the 4 inch... However the 6 inch still looks much cooler and I believe it is better balanced?
Keith Williams - When I bought the Python, who knew that it was going to go premium on us? If any of us could go back to those days, forget the Python - we could own the world..literally... Best to ya, FC Steve
i have a 4 " Python that i have shot a lot in practice and local competition. i have hit a golf ball three consecutive times from 80 yards offhard .using 16 gr. of Winchester 296 powder. Full crimp. A 150 grain KTSW of 150 grains.(RCBS MOLD)5 % tin slug( the rest was a wheel weight which has 5 % antimony.) Breathe so you shoot between heartbeats. Any misses must be your fault. Not the gun or the bullets.Practise.!
+Gregory Mahaits -- That's some fur country shootin'!! That Python is up to it if the shooter is... the bores of the barrel taper to the muzzle increasing the accuracy... Good shootin' to ya, thanks for posting, FC
@@BCUMF03 Well if you can shoot like that I salute you. I just don't have the vision for that kind of accuracy, but at thirty feet I can tear it up. lol
ok thx but ill never sell it was mt grandpas revolver lol the box is nice wood whit goald paint saying colt looks badass will post a vid of it in a week or 2
You have good tastes, DJ DAVIS!! I was lucky. If not for PPC competition, I probably never would have gotten my Python because it was more expensive than Smiths or Rugers. But I'm always glad that I have this jewel of a pistol - still in good shape after 4 seasons of PPC (switched to Davis revolver after that). Best Regards, and thanks for posting
***** Used gun market is the only place. You can post a want ad on the bulletin board at local ranges to spur someone to sell. Gun shows. Ask a local gun shop you trust to locate one for you. Get ready for a high sticker price, though, unless the gun is in bad condition. Good huntin' to ya
Charles Frazier Happened during a time of bad PR for shooting, plus the wife wanted to get rid of clutter - all my shooting, bowling, and golf trophies were put into box. And I did somehow got into the thought that the time had come to just let them go...mistake!!
+Charles Frazier -- It was during a weak time when it didn't seem important to keep those dust collectors anymore - along with my bowling and golf trophies (nothing major) - out they all went... now sadness... Best to ya, FC
GREAT VIDEO! my concealed carry is a 6 inch colt python. 357 magnum (nickel w/ wood) and I gotta say, THEY ARE RIGHT! this gun is beautiful ! just like it's reptilian counterpart beautiful, yet deadly! look down the barrel of this and it's Asta la Vista baby! ( I usually choose the .357 FMJ or full Metal jacket by federal ammo and I tuck it In a jacket,coat or sweater in a shoulder holster)
+David sands -- Most would say the 4" would be quicker to deploy and faster to acquire. The four inch was the favorite of cops who carried them. Hunters really liked the 6". But for CCW, each carrier knows what is best for them. And that 6" is a formidable piece of hardware. Your FMJ might be a problem though if you should ever have to let fly with any rounds - if there are bystanders around, those FMJs are not going to be stopping any time soon...It's like when Dirty Harry was hunting Scorpio - cutting loose with .458 Winchester FMJs around Columbus Street in San Francisco might not be the best to consider... Happy Holidays to ya, FC
Buĺlelts sized .356" fulllube.The Python barrel slugs at .155. the bullet shout be one thou less than bore size.Hence..the .356" size. It all matters. Colt sizes it's barrels small... So, slug your barrel .Push an unsized lead slug through your own varrel and measure the distance between groove and groove. Not between land and land. Size your bullets to be .001 greater than groove to groove..yes, this will make a difference. Honest...and..practice !
I just found this out also the cylinder is short compared to other revolvers. What my 71 likes is a Rcbs 158gr SWC sized to .357 and seated to 1.6000 otherwise the cylinder will not turn
+angel eleven - Colt Pythons are like the folks that live in Alameda, CA (that's where they used to keep the nuclear wessels) - there's only so much real estate there, there's not going to be any more (it's an island city). Few of the folks that live there are moving. And a whole passel of folks want to live there. If you get in, you'll be happy - but you will have paid a scad to get there. You can shoot up a storm of 357s with a S&W, Ruger or Taurus in the meantime... this is all easy for me to say since I have my Python already, and they'll have to take my cold dead hands off of it before I let go... Have a great day... FC
+Gregory Mahaits -- No problem, we used to call it brain fade back in the IPSC days - I knew what you meant... we just had to get it right in print for the others that read these reviews... Best Regards, FC
AnarchyWorld - That's OK, though, when I'm at the Halloween costume section with my grandsons, the other kids keep looking around for Kermit the Frog or Yogi the Bear...they can't seem to find them though... Best to ya
Anti Pasta - Great series - those zombies are what our ARs are for…especially in 300 Blackout caliber… But the Python will do as long as there aren't a whole passel of zombies at once...Best to ya...
Fred Fournier - Not really for that - they were gathering dust, and were a mess. And my interests went into trap competition - and I was making progress there…it's just that when I figured out how much money and time I was spending for the belt buckles I was winning, it was not worth it. And the money winners were always the same shooters. I wasn't nearly good enough to get into the super squad. But winning turkey shoots, and bacon shoots, and a belt buckle here and there was OK, but I didn't have to go traveling all around the state to do that…so I shut down my trap comp. Then the trophies for PPC became "I should never have thrown those out" kind of thing… I tell others to not make the same mistake - you look at all the professional shooters who win the big events - they still have their little local trophies in their trophy rooms…. Best to ya...
I stumbled upon a very good load for my Python. MP Brass HP mold # 359 125 with the large HP pins. Powder coated Eastwood Ford light blue and sized to .357 on top of 13.0 grains of Hodgdons H110. Of course I decided to use Starline 357 magnum brass because my Python has a 357 cylinder. Anyway this load in my vintage 71 Python put 4 of the 6 shots in the same ragged hole at 10 yards. All six shots created a 1.4” group in my opinion that’s a hell of a revolver. Definitely a testament to those men and women that crafted these fine revolvers. I know mine will go to my son when it’s time.
Ya I love me some classic wheel guns. Don't care too much for the new ones. Keep the videos coming!
that lineup of the elmer keith loads in the beginning made me drool.
Thanks, Elmer designs are state of the art even today. They also shoot very well at 50 yards. I cast them with 3% tin 3% antimony for 900-1000 fps and water quench for 1000+ and no leading. Touch 'em off and they feel like 357 magnums. I don't shoot them in my Python anymore. Lyman 4 cavity mold has served me very well for 35 years. Lee doesn't make molds for this bullet - that is a real shame.
I just purchased a 1979 made Python for $2900 (not fired in mint condition). Waiting for delivery this week. Thanks for your presentation.
TheSocalmarine-Your Colt Trooper is a very fine pistol in its own right. Any of the Colt's of recent times is a wonderful example of gun making and craftsmanship. You are no lower eschelon shooter with a Trooper...Best Regards to you from the HLZ...
You have a timeless beauty there...beautiful bluing too.
This is a great video of the Colt Python.
tony shumway - If it wasn't for PPC shootin, I never would have gotten this gun - reason was they cost more. But I am so glad that I got this and more glad as time passes by it seems... Best to ya, FC
Thanks for the reply someday I might get a Colt Python although given how expensive they are I will have to save up a lot of money before I get one.
oh, man - you are so lucky to have that beautiful Python. It was never cheap, but man, the prices are just through the roof now (if you can find them). I just got myself the Colt Trooper (poor man's python).
Thanks for comment. Elmer Keith was the father of the 44 and 41 Magnums. His bullet designs are distinctive 1) heavy 2) long nose 3) wide meplat 4) wide forward driving band sharp shoulder 3) 3 equal width driving bands 4) beveled crimp groove 5) generous square grease groove. For 38/357, the Keith design is 172 grains long nose. Authentic Keith design in 38/357, 41, 44 not available to buy - mystery - we have to cast them - Lyman, SAECO or RCBS molds. Some genuine 45 Keith are for sale.
Travis Webb - That's always good policy - Thanks for post...
Thanks for this nice video! I just won an auction. Python from 1972. Waiting for the buying permit took forever. Bullets are already casted, lots of (semi)wadcutters. Powder is ordered. Presses and dies waiting, along with about 6000 primed cases. Time to roll on.
Norman Reppingen nice hearing from ya, Norm..!! Big congrats on your auction win. Many would tell you that you have a collectible gun investment there that should not be fired. Colt will never be able to produce those guns again as the level of gunsmithing expertise required no longer exists - even with remaining left over parts. That is one reason price values on existing guns keeps rising. I shot lots and lots of target wadcutters in mine and the gun is still like new. But if you shoot heavy magnums steadily in yours, you can definitely degrade the value. Any mod you do to your gun is like poison. Today, unfired Pythons with all papers in original boxes would be worth multiple thousand dollars. Of course you know all these things already or you would not have bid on it. Here’s wishing you great joy of Python ownership..!! FC Steve
Thank you so much, very kind! I hope you did enjoy your trip to europe, have seen some nice footage from Italy. ;-) I want to conserve the snake as good as possible, but also do not want to cease shooting it (i myself had no opportunity till now). It has been shot, a bit hard to tell how much, not a lot of visible signs of use, nearly no dirt even in hard to clean places. I think i will feed it with loads leaning more toward the .38 Special realm. Do not want to put a lot of factory ammo through it. The price tag for factory .357 is rather unpleasant anyway. Looking down the bore of the Python i was astonished to see a lot of machining tracks / traces whatsoever, mainly on the lands, with the pits being more mirror like. Whereas the barrel of the Sig P226 LDC is like one shiny mirror both on pits and lands. Even the bore of my 98k looks way more smooth. So i am not very certain if my Python will be able to digest cast bullets without leading. Will see. As long as i get it out... but i am a bit more optimistic with the Sig P226 when it comes to cast bullets. At least for the leading part. Precisionwise, i would not take a bet, the Sig has been giving 18 mm groups from 10 shots at 27 yards. With 95 Grain Magtech. Despite a 4.4 inch barrel. Hard to beat. I am curious how all of this will play out, the long waiting period is coming to an end. :-)
Ronald Darnell- Welcome to the Hot Lead Zone - I can imagine how beautiful that pistol is - congratulations to you - high cost, but quality will keep...Best Regards...
Just facinated with this gun but still getting to know it...
Man, that gun is pretty. This and the Single Action Army are my top 2 favourite handguns. Hope I can buy one someday.
+András Horváth (Drutar) - The Python is one of the finest production handguns ever made anywhere. The S&W M27 is the other high end classic and much more affordable at this time. And the S&W 686 and Combat Magnum are also primo. You have good tastes - I'm sure glad I have mine... Best Regards ... FC
+András Horváth (Drutar) -- I don't have a SAA. Have Rugers and Beretta Stampedes instead - If I close my eyes with those Berettas, I can get the feel of shooting a Colt...but I could buy five Berettas for the one Colt. Can't blame anyone for wanting a Python or SAA though - they are fine guns... Best Regards, FC
+FC$45LC - I have a late model Python (80's model) and the subsequent King Cobra and they are both are great joy to own/shoot...
+JBBooks4440 - and great heaps of congratulations to ya on owning those fine revolvers. They will increase in value faster than inflation - one of the best working investments we will make. We should always consider ourselves fortunate and satisfied to have them... Colt is in Chapter 11 - they have lost market share but not desirability. Best Regards to ya -- FC
Thanks buddy! There is noting like a python period. My favorite revolver followed closely buy my 66 S&W 27-2.
I own 4 Colt Pythons and 3 SW 686 and 1 Colt Trooper Mk3 I have to beg the differ the faster of the 3 is SW 686 target or hunting. Colt designs are elegant beautiful bluing and of course that single action trigger. At first i bought the 686 as a shooter in the late 80's early 90's but in all honesty after I tuned my 686 with JM trigger springs polished some parts I say SW 686 is has a faster reset return and users abuse hunting like wise target. Both are solidly built except one was @$250 back then $750 now, the other is $3K+ plus bidding experience. The new Python I don't know I shot it it felt like those modern stainless shooters with Colt Horse stamped on it. 6 shots 1 hole dime size at 60 feet Sportmans Warehouse 1st $300 prize. I say Smith is my hog deer and target reviover for the last 31 years 8&3/8" barrel
dthebassplayayahoo- It's the gun....It's the gun....the gun... Thanks for taking the time to post...
have one also ,elison sight with rubber grips ,have won a lot of matches with that beauty ,plates ,pins ,and everything else. Like you I have mine a long time .Probably my favorite firearm of all
mark cooper - Great point you make there. If I had to bug out with one gun and a 50 cal ammo can of ammo - I'd be grabbing my bag, my Python and that box full of 357 mag and selected 38 ammo. If I could grab two guns, the 2nd one would be my S & W 686+ Pro Series. Best Regards...
Haha thanks for the info!
Also, thanks for responding so fast!
..l used to have 2-Colt Pythons..a 6" and a 2" barrel...
Had to sell one and it was like choosing between 2-sons who to send to a labour conscription camp..
' chose to keep the 6"-barrel..
Will miss the 2" till my dying day..
Actually, I'm heading outside to ingot the latest pile of range scrap that I picked up last weekend. I think my next cast project will be to do a passel of .44 245 gr. Keiths. I might want to do a video on Keith bullets unless you do one first. There are NO videos on Keith style cast bullets as far as I can tell.
Thats a son of a gun, that the most beautiful gun in the world!!! (!)
the best looking revolver I've ever seen Dirty Harry eat your heart out.
+Richard Cuadra -- The movie Magnum Force was the second of the Dirty Harry series and one of the stars in that was the Python revolver. Harry Callahan in the movie actually complimented the Python during the range scenes. David Soul in one of the roles went on to Starsky and Hutch. The Python was in numerous other Cop shows back in that time period as well. This is a fun comment you made. Have a great day, FC
I used to own this revolver in the UK before that privalage was taken away from me like every government in the world wants,I had to hand mine in and apparently they cut mine up !! but without a doubt at the time the best revolver out there, a pleasure to own and shoot , The old addage that you can't hit a barn door with a revolver HA !! , I know what I could do with mine target shooting , and this shows exactly that , but I am never ever allowed to own one again , Thanks BIG BROTHER
alan manning - There's an injustice there…Many here feel that society would be safer without guns. But many also feel that if guns are banned, then freedom is lost. I'd put myself in the latter and not the former. Thanks for posting your important comment… Best Regards
I traded mine for a Smith and Wesson Model 29 "Dirty Harry" gun. Mine had some timing issues so I never regretted the swap. Exploding bowling pins with the 44 was entertaining.
+jeffie8696 -- The bowling pins we get around here are plastic coated and those rascals just absorbed bullets - didn't matter what you shot them with - they just either allowed bullets to pass right through or simply absorbed them...If you were a later shooter, it was tougher to clear the table because the pins had lead in 'em... Best to ya, FC
Love my 67 4 inch
Nice. I also own two Python's with 6" barrel lengths ('69 and '79 vintage years).
Rockin' Ron - Congrats on your 2 Python's - you were very wise acquiring them...Happy New Year
Thank you very much, and, you have a Happy New Year.
MrStormHDx-The Zombie Apocalypse!! Thanks for the post...
At 150 yards use a 1/8" front sight holdover. you WILL hit a 1 pound coffee tin consistantly. The 296 Winchester powder at 16 grains will deliver almost no leading and no unburned powder residue in your barrel.
+Gregory Mahaits -- You must be using 158 grain bullets with that 16 grainer charge, because I stoke 125 JHPs with 22 grains of 296. Either bullet so loaded is a mean lights out son of a gun.... Best to ya, FC
FortuneCookie45LC. Hi FC. It is a 150 grain Keith type SWC. RCBS Iron, two cavity Mould. The bullet has a single lube groove.
Brian Kim-Balance of any long gun is best when center of mass is right between the hands. But with handguns, balance is all subjective individual to the shooter. If you like the balance of the 6", then it is good for you. Same if you like the 4". Certainly, the 6" is heavier and controls recoil better and has more MV. But the 4" will move faster and will seem to point quicker. But will be a little flippier with magnums…Best Regards...
2nd reply - Pythons are real deal. Keith bullets in 357 cases too long for shorter Python cylinder. No problem with S&W and Ruger cylinders. For Python, we have to crimp over front driving band to work or use 38 cases. Keith bullets are hard cast and do not rely on expansion to do job, but rather by shock and superior penetration. Keith used to shoot sharks by aiming 2 feet in front and 1 foot down from fin protruding from water and Keith bullet did the job - 30/06 rifle bullets would not.
All my Keiths are in completed rounds. Gonna have to do some casting first...
Tiaan Malan - If in mint condition 1956, I'd just guess that the price would be in the area of $1500-$1600, but I'd check on what others are getting on GunBroker or look it up in the Blue Book of Gun Values if I ran into one like yours (the nickel may even make it more valuable). And the original box is neat. That was only a guess. You have a very desirable gun there....
gun nut-Thanks for the good word…appreciate your comments.
Which Python has more value with collectors - blue or nickel?
Morris Zachrisson - Either - depends on the collector. Best to ya, FC
Brian Kim- depends on what you want or perceive that you need. The 6" is great for hunting, the 4" for portability and handiness. I would not recommend the 2 1/2" snubby Python...
Mint condition in a used/fired Colt Python!
I don't really know how did you manage to keep it in such an extraordinary shape, but nice job with its maintenance instead of having it as a safe queen, sir!
(I know they're like investments and value will rise over 3-4K $, but for me, the meaning of guns is that they're born for shooting them, not for exclusively being virgin safe queens, even if it makes them loose most or all of its value).
Do you rub the Python with gun grease or wax to keep it almost like NIB as when it left Colt's Factory?
Very informative. I've owned .38spl's and Pythons for many years and I've never heard of Keith style cartridges. Thanks for the information. Do you know who sells these type? Are these cartridges expensive? I'd like to see a video comparison of the traditional .38spl and the Keith style.
Finally got one from gunbroker!
AK Janitor Congratulations on your acquisition of a true American classic firearm...its desirability will only increase... Best to ya
+AK Janitor -- I'm glad you got your Python then... it's really crazy now - I'm being told to not shoot mine, and that's a real pity... Best to ya, FC
+AK Janitor -- Congrats on your acquisition - you made an investment... Best to ya, FC
The colt plython always reminds me of the second dirty harry movie. all the vigilante cops had Pythons.
Flynn88MN - Interesting - just a couple of days ago, I was watching shooting excerpts from Magnum Force on TH-cam videos. Classic stuff with Harry at the police range with the 4 young cop perpetrators and at the police shooting competition - after Harry lost, he wanted to check out Patrolman Davis' Python and cleans three targets putting one round into a door jam "Missed with one shot..." And Davis says to him "You'll get used to it..." The Python was one of the stars of the movie - but often overlooked (just like the M70 Winchester in the first Dirty Harry). Best to ya, FC
love the video, and congratulations with your prices :)
how are you doing I recently came across a 1975 python I noticed it has the same marks or scratches on the left side on the front and behind the trigger is that from the factory
scotty collins - The wear on my revolver was caused by the PPC shooting that I did...holster wear. Best Regards to ya, FC
how many rounds have shot with this beauty
how much will you pay for one in mint condision still origanal box from the 1956 ?? 6 inch barel black and a nickel coat
(inhereted one)
Tiaan Malan- That's one video I want to see. And for sure, grandpa's Python should stay in the family - you might even include a photo of your grandpa, your dad, and yourself - and keep with the gun so someday-your grandchild will be enjoying that gun and have the history there also…Best Regards to ya...
Colt is actually considering producing these again. Seems they have a crap ton of parts still shelved. So if only they'd stop sucking so bad. We might see them offered again.
+The human shrug. -- The demand is so high, that Colt is going to be able to ask big money for them...The old ones will still be valuable - Keep the supply down and Colt can clean up... Best to ya... FC
FortuneCookie45LC Kinda sad really. I'll never be able to afford one. 8*(
+The human shrug. The Pythons are good, but so is a Ruger or Glock...or S&W. Best Regards, FC
FortuneCookie45LC That's certainly true. But only one of the firearms you've just listed, I don't have already. =)
+The human shrug. -- Ah!!! The Colts - I could have done very good for myself if I had bought a Trooper, Diamondback, Anaconda, a couple of Gold Cups, Match Target Woodsman...a couple of more Pythons... and not have let my Colt Cobra slip from my fingers.... Looking back is easy... Best to ya, FC
Hello.
I have a question: Which barrel size is better for the python 358?
The 6 inch or the 4 inch barrel?
Amazing video by the way :)
That 16 gr load will shoot at 1335 fps. right on at 25 yards. 2" high at 50 yards. 2" low at 100 yards.
+Gregory Mahaits -- Nice trajectory...A Colt Python was one of the guns in an old article on survival handguns in one of my old Gun Digests - should dig that rascal out some time... Best to ya, FC
NICE
I am Buying one, that's it
+abu zaben - You have good tastes in firearms, abu zaben!! May your acquisition bring you the joy and pleasure that other Python owners have found... Have a great day... -- FC
I have the 6 in. nickel in mint condition. My favorite gun.
Tom M - That is so FINE…
FortuneCookie45LC
I have 6 guns. and if I could only have one it is my Python. God forbid if that ever happens.
Living in CA. who knows.
Tom M And your Python would be a spectacular choice for one gun - The versatility of the 357 magnum is unmatched. We can shoot all the way down to 22LR substitute stuff up to 180 grain bear loads...Happy Holidays to ya...
ubay bergton-You won't get many disagreements on that...Best Regards...
Do you know when it was made
Dallas Rhymes - I bought the gun new in the late 70s so must have been in the mid - late 70s. Best to ya, FC Steve
VuckoVux-Thanks for the comment - many would agree because guns whisper seductively to us..."Come to me...Come to me...I am power and privilege...I'm real...I've shown you that you can trust me...and I won't let you down..." Some hard stuff to resist...
Haha I understand thanks!
I meant Colt Puthon 357 lol
I heard that many leagally armed citizens are armed with the 4 inch... However the 6 inch still looks much cooler and I believe it is better balanced?
pls reply i want 2 now its valeu
At least you got rid of the trophies, and not the Python!
Keith Williams - When I bought the Python, who knew that it was going to go premium on us? If any of us could go back to those days, forget the Python - we could own the world..literally... Best to ya, FC Steve
i have a 4 " Python that i have shot a lot in practice and local competition. i have hit a golf ball three consecutive times from 80 yards offhard .using 16 gr. of Winchester 296 powder. Full crimp. A 150 grain KTSW of 150 grains.(RCBS MOLD)5 % tin slug( the rest was a wheel weight which has 5 % antimony.) Breathe so you shoot between heartbeats. Any misses must be your fault. Not the gun or the bullets.Practise.!
offhand i meant. tiny keyboard..fat thumb...
+Gregory Mahaits -- That's some fur country shootin'!! That Python is up to it if the shooter is... the bores of the barrel taper to the muzzle increasing the accuracy... Good shootin' to ya, thanks for posting, FC
+FortuneCookie45LC
You are welcome , F.C. It is always great to pass on info and have a chat with another shooter. Greg
@@BCUMF03 Golf ball at 80 yards - I'm calling BS.
@@BCUMF03 Well if you can shoot like that I salute you. I just don't have the vision for that kind of accuracy, but at thirty feet I can tear it up. lol
ok thx but ill never sell it was mt grandpas revolver lol the box is nice wood whit goald paint saying colt looks badass will post a vid of it in a week or 2
I want the Colt Python my favorite gun =D
You have good tastes, DJ DAVIS!! I was lucky. If not for PPC competition, I probably never would have gotten my Python because it was more expensive than Smiths or Rugers. But I'm always glad that I have this jewel of a pistol - still in good shape after 4 seasons of PPC (switched to Davis revolver after that). Best Regards, and thanks for posting
FortuneCookie45LC wow!!! np so do you know where I get Colt Python ?
***** Used gun market is the only place. You can post a want ad on the bulletin board at local ranges to spur someone to sell. Gun shows. Ask a local gun shop you trust to locate one for you. Get ready for a high sticker price, though, unless the gun is in bad condition. Good huntin' to ya
FortuneCookie45LC ok
I"m sorry you got rid of those trophies too.
Charles Frazier Happened during a time of bad PR for shooting, plus the wife wanted to get rid of clutter - all my shooting, bowling, and golf trophies were put into box. And I did somehow got into the thought that the time had come to just let them go...mistake!!
+Charles Frazier -- It was during a weak time when it didn't seem important to keep those dust collectors anymore - along with my bowling and golf trophies (nothing major) - out they all went... now sadness... Best to ya, FC
GREAT VIDEO! my concealed carry is a 6 inch colt python. 357 magnum (nickel w/ wood) and I gotta say, THEY ARE RIGHT! this gun is beautiful ! just like it's reptilian counterpart beautiful, yet deadly! look down the barrel of this and it's Asta la Vista baby! ( I usually choose the .357 FMJ or full Metal jacket by federal ammo and I tuck it In a jacket,coat or sweater in a shoulder holster)
+David sands -- Most would say the 4" would be quicker to deploy and faster to acquire. The four inch was the favorite of cops who carried them. Hunters really liked the 6". But for CCW, each carrier knows what is best for them. And that 6" is a formidable piece of hardware. Your FMJ might be a problem though if you should ever have to let fly with any rounds - if there are bystanders around, those FMJs are not going to be stopping any time soon...It's like when Dirty Harry was hunting Scorpio - cutting loose with .458 Winchester FMJs around Columbus Street in San Francisco might not be the best to consider... Happy Holidays to ya, FC
Buĺlelts sized .356" fulllube.The Python barrel slugs at .155. the bullet shout be one thou less than bore size.Hence..the .356" size. It all matters. Colt sizes it's barrels small... So, slug your barrel .Push an unsized lead slug through your own varrel and measure the distance between groove and groove. Not between land and land. Size your bullets to be .001 greater than groove to groove..yes, this will make a difference. Honest...and..practice !
I just found this out also the cylinder is short compared to other revolvers. What my 71 likes is a Rcbs 158gr SWC sized to .357 and seated to 1.6000 otherwise the cylinder will not turn
Ima buy one...oh wait I'm 18.😐😐😐
+angel eleven - Colt Pythons are like the folks that live in Alameda, CA (that's where they used to keep the nuclear wessels) - there's only so much real estate there, there's not going to be any more (it's an island city). Few of the folks that live there are moving. And a whole passel of folks want to live there. If you get in, you'll be happy - but you will have paid a scad to get there. You can shoot up a storm of 357s with a S&W, Ruger or Taurus in the meantime... this is all easy for me to say since I have my Python already, and they'll have to take my cold dead hands off of it before I let go... Have a great day... FC
Good news. Colt is remaking the python. Coming out in a few weeks
oops. i meant one thou MORE than bore size. Not less. Brain fart. . I have been doing this for 38 years...god i am old... .sigh.
+Gregory Mahaits -- No problem, we used to call it brain fade back in the IPSC days - I knew what you meant... we just had to get it right in print for the others that read these reviews... Best Regards, FC
nothing comes close to a python!
This guy sounds like a cartoon
AnarchyWorld - That's OK, though, when I'm at the Halloween costume section with my grandsons, the other kids keep looking around for Kermit the Frog or Yogi the Bear...they can't seem to find them though... Best to ya
FortuneCookie45LC Way to go BooBoo!
TheSPARTANusm :) ;)
***** You guys are a riot, a real riot...Have a great day!!
AnarchyWorld You sound like a real a--hole!
Our founding fathers who were UK'S new about it and so they wrote The second amendment.
Paulo Tuble - And the Constitution of the US would not have been ratified unless the Bill of Rights was included. Have a great day...
Don't lie you came here because of Rick Grimes
Anti Pasta - Great series - those zombies are what our ARs are for…especially in 300 Blackout caliber… But the Python will do as long as there aren't a whole passel of zombies at once...Best to ya...
Actually, what brought me here is that's the weapon Ken Hutchinson carries on.....Starsky & Hutch...
I think that I' m getting a chubby.
Always good to hear from Bob Sarka from out there in the TH-cam ether...Have a great day...
colt really pisses me off
+Cole Purvis -- Funny, I don't know exactly what you're talking about, but I can see your point and can even agree... FC
REVOLVER! hahahaha
Billy Voskuijl I know, but don't laugh too hard - you sides might hurt... Best Regards to you...
So you got rid of your trophies for political correctness? Is that what you're saying??
Fred Fournier - Not really for that - they were gathering dust, and were a mess. And my interests went into trap competition - and I was making progress there…it's just that when I figured out how much money and time I was spending for the belt buckles I was winning, it was not worth it. And the money winners were always the same shooters. I wasn't nearly good enough to get into the super squad. But winning turkey shoots, and bacon shoots, and a belt buckle here and there was OK, but I didn't have to go traveling all around the state to do that…so I shut down my trap comp. Then the trophies for PPC became "I should never have thrown those out" kind of thing… I tell others to not make the same mistake - you look at all the professional shooters who win the big events - they still have their little local trophies in their trophy rooms…. Best to ya...
If you don’t show it it never happened. I won worlds sexiest man but I threw away the trophy