Python Equivalent?

[scifigunner]

Dan Wesson Model 15-2

[Capybara]

As a revolver enthusiast who has never shot a Python, what's the big deal with them? I know they are well built, shoot nicely but is there anything singular about them that makes them the holy grail of revolvers or is it just a, 'You'll know it when you shoot one" sort of feel? My nicest revolver is my S&W 625 PC, which I love, but new it was only $1,200.00 What makes a Python worth two or three times as much? Is it just collectability and looks?

[scifigunner]

As a revolver enthusiast who has never shot a Python, what's the big deal with them? I know they are well built, shoot nicely but is there anything singular about them that makes them the holy grail of revolvers or is it just a, 'You'll know it when you shoot one" sort of feel? My nicest revolver is my S&W 625 PC, which I love, but new it was only $1,200.00 What makes a Python worth two or three times as much? Is it just collectability and looks?

Next time you go to IVE or hopefully the Glass Factory let me know and if I can make it I'll bring mine so you can shoot it and judge for yourself. It is a totally subjective question as to whether they are worth it or not. They are very nice, but worth the $ over other nice alternatives is an open question that could (and probably will) be endlessly debated.

[cannon]

I can't think of a revolver that shoots and feels like a Python. S&W made plenty of revolvers that are as accurate and some that are more accurate but they don't feel like a Python.

Since your Dad has the hots for a Python I doubt any other gun will do wether it's better or not.

Just search sale ads and be ready to jump when one pops up. For a pistol many say is so "Rare" there sure are a lot of them for sale.

Good Python hunting!

[TurboChrisB]

His budget is right on the money.....that's about what they go for....now you just have to wait till one comes up.. Did you search in the classifieds? There was one a month or two ago...

[Snapping Twig]

Manhurins are nice.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMhThUAl88w

In the real world, a S&W 586 is about the closest you'll get to a Python. The trigger on DA is different, the Python stacks, the S&W is linear. Also, S&W are perhaps a bit more durable over time and you can find a smith to work on them easier.

Python's taper barrel design and cylinder lock-up are unique and aid in accuracy.

[Bullitt01]

1960s Colt Trooper....but does not have the Python looks.

[highpower]

If he can't find a Python in his price range, have him start searching for a S&W Model 27. They were Smith and Wesson's premium revolver for many years. The -2 versions can be found for under $900 without the presentation case and even with all the accessories in unfired condition, they can be found for $1200 or so.

Sometimes they can be found for much less if you get lucky. I got this one last summer for about $850 all in at a LGS.

[Webologist]

Well, I made the mistake of letting my dad shoot my Python and after one-holing the target on his first cylinder he is sold on wanting one. The problem is that here in CA they are worth their weight in gold it seems.

We're keeping our eyes peeled, but if we can't find one for a decent price (he's willing to pay up to $2200 for a nice one) I guess we'll have to look for something else.

So what else can be had that shoots (and preferably looks) as good as a factory Python?

I sense you have something in your safe that, if given as a gift, would bring a tear to your dad's eyes. (He has probably made a few larger sacrifices for you along the way)

No guilt...

[agent88]

I know why colt stopped making the python but they and other manufactures are fools for not making a revolver with that iconic ribbed barrel look. IMO

[I Swan]

The Llama Comanche revolvers had vent ribs. I have two I paid very low prices for and both are functional. Adding a vent rib to a gun is also possible I had a Colt New Service someone customized that way.

[Capybara]

Next time you go to IVE or hopefully the Glass Factory let me know and if I can make it I'll bring mine so you can shoot it and judge for yourself. It is a totally subjective question as to whether they are worth it or not. They are very nice, but worth the $ over other nice alternatives is an open question that could (and probably will) be endlessly debated.

Very generous of you, I will keep that in mind next time I am going. Now I just need to find time to go shooting!

[mnichols]

For a collector, just be patient and keep an eye on the marketplace here and gunbroker.

For a shooter, maybe a 686, 586, or a GP100 will scratch the itch.

[Citadelgrad87]

"Nothing"?

Please.

Get one of these. They don't come up often, but they are far more reasonable than pythons have become. Modular barrels, you can buy one and have everything from a snubby to a long range hunter.



Dan Wesson, 15-2 VH. Eight inch on mine.

They are making them again, too, in stainless.

[Calif Hunter]

The S&W 586 is blued, looks good, shoots well and looks similar to a Python. The S&W M-27 was the top of their line, I believe, in a larger frame. The Colt ".357" model preceeded the Python and was their top of the line pre-Python. An original Colt Trooper in .357 has the same basic action without the fine-tuning and hand-fitting. I have both a 4-inch Trooper and a 6-inch Python. As noted above, the Dan Wessons have an excellent reputation for accuracy and have interchangeable barrels.