Python vs GP100

[scarville]

Wooooow. I want to thank everyone for the feed back!!!!!!! Just to get some things straight though I did not rule out the s&w 686, I am just new to the revolver world

In truth the Ruger versus S&W versus ??? is like the Glock versus 1911 versus everything else arguments in the autoloader arena. It is a question that cannot be answered objectively and, truth be told, is not really intended to be. However, for the gentleman considering a new revolver, the arguments may help to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each candidate.

and saying the python was the best revolver ever made was not the right statement to make.

As Yoda never said, "Ignorance is curable if you are smart enough to learn."

I appreciate all the info, and points everyone made. If any one is willing to teach or show me some things about any of the revolvers disscussed, that would be awsome. Thank you to everyone who posted something. I will take all of this into the gun shop when I got to buy.!! Thanks again.

I don't think you live too close to me or I'd offer to meet you at a local range to try one or more of my S&W revolvers. I don't have a GP-100 right now but it and a SP101 are on my short list of guns to buy this year.

[racinginthestreets]

No comparison here. The Colt Python is the best revolver as a shooter and investment between the two. I've put 2500 rounds through my Colt Python Elite 4inch and it's deadly accurate (check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-KLrzEIoMI). I've also shot a GP100 4inch on two different occasions, with two different revolvers, and although it's a very capable revolver it's different IMO in the following ways.
1) Accuracy shooting both .38's and .357mags at metal targets 12 inches in diameter, my Python at 7, 15 and 25 yards is more accurate (out of 100 rounds through each I hit 90 times with my Python and 72 times with the GP100)
2) Feel, any Python will be butter smooth as you pull the hammer back (you have to experience this to fully appreciate this. A Python's feel is a continuous smooth feel then a solid click) and after you fire a round the lockup on a Python is solid. On a GP100 pulling the hammer back is more like a SW 686 (it's a springy pull back feel with a clunk at the end) and the lockup is not as tight.
3) Looks, this is more subjective but I think the Python just looks better. Also, the blue finish on a Python is simply the best, and even the stainless steel finish is not as dull as the GP100.
4) A Python is one of the few revolvers that you can count on increasing in value (even if you shoot it providing you treat it with the respect it deserves by not abusing it and cleaning it after it's shot).

If you are on a budget, or you simply want to add a solid revolver to your otherwise semi-auto pistol collection, a GP100 is a fine choice. However, if you enjoy the feel of a revolver in your hand, and you like shooting revolvers, and you can afford it, I'd go for the Python. You'll be glad you did, and like many of us, you'll find yourself molesting this revolver even if you don't take it out very much.

[butterfinger1]

The pyton is nice if you can find one but if your planning on shooting very hot load then the Ruger GP100 is the way to go. Ruger has one of the toughest frame out there i own the Smith and Wesson model 629 the hottest load i will ever shoot is the 305 grain nothing more plus i wouldnt shoot that grain often.