NRA Gun of the Week: Colt Python Revolver

by
posted on February 6, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
The epitome of Colt’s double-action revolver line was the Python. Introduced initially as a “deluxe Magnum” target revolver, the Python in .357 Mag. made its debut in 1955. It was a big, beefy six-shot revolver with an integrally machined vent-rib, fully lugged barrel and a shrouded ejector rod. Typical sights included a Patridge-style front and a fully adjustable square-notch rear. Barrel lengths included 2½", 3", 4", 6" and 8". How beefy? In 1964 American Rifleman reviewed a 2 1/2" barreled .357 Mag. that was 7¾" long and weighed in at 33½ ozs. Not inexpensive, it sold for $125 a half-century ago. Finishes were blue, royal blue, nickel and stainless at various times during production. For more on the Colt Python, please enjoy the following articles:

Colt's Snake Guns
Colt Python Revolver 

Specifications
Manufacturer:
Colt's Mfg.
Produced: 1955-1996
Cartridge: .357 Mag.
Barrel Length: 2.5", 3", 4", 6", 8"
Weight: 38 ozs. to 48 ozs.
Action: Double Action
Sights: Blade front; Rear adjustable 
Capacity: 6 rounds

Latest

Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway 1
Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway 1

Gun of the Week: Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway

The Dark Mountain Arms Stowaway rifle is a bolt-action, single-shot design chambered for the 5.7x28 mm FN cartridge.

The Armed Citizen® Feb. 27, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The B22 Jaguar: Beretta's New Cutting-Edge .22

Beretta's new B22 Jaguar is a .22 Long Rifle-chambered pistol optimized for the range, competition and introducing new shooters to the sport. 

Review: Daisy Smart Target System

The Daisy STS is a digital target system geared toward younger shooters and featuring an array of colorful monsters that must be dealt with using a trusty Red Ryder BB gun.

Review: Magpul MOE QD Bipod for M-Lok

Sometimes the simplest changes make the biggest difference, and such is the case with Magpul's latest version of its MOE Bipod.

250 Years Of The U.S. Army: The Smoothbore Musket Era

Across 250 years of history, the actions of the Army have been closely intertwined with the direction and growth of the United States as a nation, and at the heart of it all was the soldier and his longarm.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.