New For 2024: Colt Viper

Colt has been steadily rebuilding its "snake gun" lineup over the past few years, and the new-for-2024 Viper is the latest new reintroduction. However, this Colt Viper is not like the first-generation Viper of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The changes incorporated into the new Viper design make it more versatile and durable than before.

To start with, the new Colt Viper is built on a stainless-steel frame rather than the aluminum frame of the first-generation Vipers. While this adds weight, it also improves durability, and given the strength of the steel frame, this Viper is chambered for .357 Magnum loads. Vipers from the 1970s were only capable of handling 38 Spl. cartridges.

The Colt Viper is also available with a 4.25" barrel in addition to the 3" model shown at the top.

In terms of frame size and structure, the Viper shares the design of Colt's second-generation Python, but that's where many of the similarities end. This new Viper includes some streamlined features designed to reduce weight and improve concealability. Gone is the ventilated top rib included on the Python and Anaconda, as well as the fully adjustable target sight. The Viper includes a simple ramped front sight that's viewed through a trough in the top of the frame rib, just like other classic carry revolvers.

Additionally, Colt replicated the barrel profile of the old Vipers by incorporating a half-length underlug that still shrouds the ejector rod. The hammer spur has been narrowed compared to the wider thumb pad on Colt's target revolvers, further reducing the profile and snag points on the gun. A slim set of classic, square-butt walnut grips completes this carry-ready revolver.

To boot, the new Colt Viper includes the enlarged trigger guard, improved design and strengthened topstrap found on the second-generation Pythons. Two models of the Viper are available, one with a 3" barrel and the other with a 4.25" barrel. The suggested retail price on the new Viper is $999. For more information, visit colt.com.