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

Plinking accessories
Plinking accessories

Plinking Perfect: 5 Must-Haves for Your Next Rimfire Shoot

What better way to celebrate 250 years of freedom than to go out plinking this summer? Here are five great products that will make your next rimfire range trip better than ever before.

June Gun Purchases up Nearly 12 Percent—Virginia Sales Skyrocket

A significant portion of June's double-digit growth in gun sales was fueled by Virginia enthusiasts buying before July 1, when the state’s restrictive “assault weapons” and magazine-ban legislation was scheduled to become law.

Review: Glock's New Slimline Magazines

Glock has finally introduced its own 15-round magazine for its slimline models G43X and G48.

Serious Sluggers: The Savage Arms 212 & 220 Harvesters

For hunters who rely on slug guns to fill their tags, Savage Arms has released updated models of its 212 and 220 Harvester bolt-actions.

Gun of the Week: Heckler & Koch G36 .22 LR

Due to Germany's strict firearm-export laws, along with U.S. firearm import laws, the closest any HK fan could get to owning a real G36 was in the form of the HK SL8. Now, though, Heckler & Koch has introduced its G36 .22 LR, which, profile-wise, is a G36 in all but chambering.

The Armed Citizen® July 17, 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.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.