NRA Gun of the Week: Colt Python Revolver

American Rifleman Staff

posted on February 6, 2016

Videos News Reviews Handguns Revolvers NRA Gun of the Week

Support NRA American Rifleman DONATE

** 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

6 Reasons Why You Should Have a Good Gunsmith

Not every gunsmithing job needs to or should be a DIY job, and it pays to get to know a good gunsmith and develop a relationship with that person. Here are six reasons why.

News, Tips & Techniques

New for 2026: Breda's Victoria Over-Under Shotguns

While it's a historic Italian firearm brand, Breda guns have long been elusive in the United States. This year, Breda America is adding to its lineup of shotguns with the Victoria family of over-unders.

News, Guns

President’s Column | President's Confidential Survey

President's Confidential Survey

News, President's Column

I Carry: A Look at Today's Latest Duty Holsters

Duty holsters have their place, particularly in law-enforcement and security circles, and they do provide some benefits to civilian users, too.

Reviews, News

Political Report | Oregon’s Hunting, Fishing, and Agricultural Gambit Accelerates the End Game

Gun control activists have become increasingly emboldened. The shift from targeting the margins to challenging the mainstream signals nothing is off-limits. Gun bans are being aimed at the most popular firearms in America. Now, even hunting—which survives in countries that ban defensive gun use—is being targeted.

News, Political Report

ACGG Creates Doug Turnbull Firearms Restoration Arts Grant

The American Custom Gunmakers Guild Foundation announced the introduction of its new "Doug Turnbull Firearms Restoration Arts Grant," which is an expansion on the foundation's mission to support gunsmithing education in the United States.

News