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

Low
Low

U.S. Military Unveils "Drone Killer" Rifle Cartridges

The U.S. military's new Drone Killer Cartridge is designed as a cost-effective family of ammunition designed to increase a warfighter's probability of a hit against drone threats.

I Have This Old Gun: Röhm RG 14

RG Industries was established in Miami, Fla., to manufacture—using many German-made parts—the smallest Röhm-pattern handguns for domestic sale, including the RG 14 revolver chambered in .22 LR.

Review: Primary Weapons System UXR

What if you wanted to have more than one caliber in a single rifle? The Primary Weapons System UXR rifle is the answer, and it takes caliber-interchangeability to the next level.

Holosun Rolls Out New 407, 507 Handgun Optics

New for 2026, Holosun is releasing new versions of two of its most popular handgun optics with the 407 Comp, 407C-X3, 507C-X3 and 507-Promax.

The Armed Citizen® March 2, 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.

Nation's Oldest Gun Club Turns 150

The oldest continuously operating rifle club in the United States, the Newport Rifle Club (NRC) near Middletown, R.I., is celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2026.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.