model 19 vs colt python

[joeymfd]

was having a conversation with a fellow shooter. he has shot both of these , I have only read reviews. thought I would put this out to you.

because of the current prices and the reviews I said the colt python is the best double/single action revolver. He countered with the Smith and Wesson model 19 combat masterpiece.

what do you guys think?

[Che762x39]

I had both. Even in 1981 a Python was twice as much based on MSRP.

Colts shot 158 grain LRN better and S&W the 148 grain HBWC.

[Bobby Ricigliano]

Silly comparison, totally apples and oranges. A Python will fetch easily 3x-4x what a S&W Model 19 would fetch. Both are assuredly fine revolvers, but the fit and finish and action of the Python puts it in an entirely different class.

And ironically, I'd bet the Model 19 would hold up better over time with heavy use because (IIRC) the inner workings of the Python are somewhat more delicate.

[deadcoyote]

Buy a Smolt!! they're out there, a co worker has one. He swears by it. I've shot it, don't see the point. Apparently they were cool in the 70's.

[Germ1]

I think I don't know anything about revolvers. But I'm not a Colt fan, and I like S&W. So based just on that I would buy the S&W. Oh, and I would not buy a DAO revolver or pistol ever again.

[Che762x39]

Buy a Smolt!! they're out there, a co worker has one. He swears by it. I've shot it, don't see the point. Apparently they were cool in the 70's.

If you could not afford a Colt you got a Smolt. If you could not afford a Mustang you got a Maverick. Neither was cool in the 70's, JMHO.

[btm]

Python for fit and finish, I prefer a s&w for double action.

[Barbarosa]

It also depends on the intended use. For target shooting a Model 14 puts them all to shame.

[trigger945]

Both are really good. One is priced much more than the other.

Typically, the single action on a Python is very, very nice. The lock-up is very tight as well. Shooting double-action, however, one may feel the staging/stacking on a Python. The Model 19 probably has the Python beat there.

[ChuckDizzle]

I've shot both and they are both great. My honest opinion is that the Smith was a better shooter, but not by much. The Colt has the coolest look though, and if we are in revolver territory cool matters.

[sealocan]

If only Hi-Point made revolvers.

[nothingextra]

I've never had a timing problem with a K frame.
I do not own a K frame that's worth as much in shooter condition as a Python.
Stainless pythons are difficult to come by, and I'm a bit lazy in my maintainance so my 66-3 is my go to shooter.

[Opappy]

I own and like both but they are very different. The frame on the python is quite a bit bigger than the k frame with a longer reach to the trigger. Doesn't bother me but if you have small hands it could be a deal breaker. Agreed on the python stacking feel on trigger. I prefer the feel of the S&W for that reason (and the cylinder turns in the direction I'm used to). The Model 19 wouldn't be the best choice for a steady diet of 357 magnum where the Python would be fine. The 586/686 is the better comp. I like to shoot my 586 more than the Python or the 19.

[AFTII]

I think I don't know anything about revolvers.

Yet that never stops you from chiming in.

[RandyD]

I have owned both. I am a fan of Colts. I own a Colt Gold Cup and a Colt Woodsman, but my experience with the Python was bad. It was the most inaccurate handgun I have ever fired YMMV. The last time I had my Python at the range, I also had my S&W 686. Both had 4" barrels. I was able to shoot accurately with the 686, but had flyers everywhere with the Python. I sold that hunk of metal as fast as I could.