The iconic Colt Python is back — and if Colt is to be believed*, its latest iteration is far superior to the original classic released back during the Eisenhower administration. Read on for details and video reviews.
*This appears to be confirmed by initial reviews by such individuals as Obi-Wan Ken Hackathorn and Iain “Anti-Piers Morgan” Harrison.
According to the release (we won’t personally see it until SHOT Show 2020), the upgraded .357 double-action revolver will be making its return in stainless steel, with two barrel lengths: 4.25 in. and 6 in.
⇓ Colt Python 357: 2020 version specs
⇓ Colt Python 2020 reviews and overviews
Colt Python 2020 (.357 MAG)
Colt advises,
“The Colt Product Innovation Team refined the design of the new Colt Python and performed rigorous testing, ensuring it meets the demands of shooters and collectors. Numerous improvements were made to reinforce the revolver, including the use of stronger stainless steel alloys and a re-designed rear sight which allows for a 30% increase in the cross-sectional area of the top strap — meaning more steel beneath the rear adjustable target sight, for a stronger revolver and more robust shooting experience.”
Colt’s Product Director, Justin Baldini, says,
“We know the Colt Python is one of the most beloved and collected firearms in American history, and its re-release has long been demanded by enthusiasts. We took our time on R&D – we needed to be sure the look and performance of this redesign lived up to its legendary name and kept its impeccable reputation for quality and accuracy. This new Python lives up to the legend in every way.”
The release continues,
Minimizing the amount of parts in the trigger action has simplified the mechanism, elevating its reliability and allowing for more straightforward maintenance. The testing process included over 40,000 trigger pulls on a single Python. Trigger pull scans show lighter trigger pull weights, less friction and increased consistency, re-enforcing the Python’s reputation as a gun that can be heavily used and passed down through generations.
Finally, Colt builds on the modern Snake Gun legacy by adding features such as a recessed target crown, user-interchangeable front sight, and an updated Walnut grip to make this the most user-friendly Python ever. The DA revolver is chambered in .357 Magnum and also accommodates 38 Special cartridges.
The Python has been extremely popular with both target shooters and law enforcement, and featured in countless TV series, movies and video games including “The X Files,” “The Walking Dead,” “Hawaii 5-0,” “Starsky and Hutch,” “John Wick” (2014), “American Gangster” (2004), “Fight Club” (1999) and “King Kong” (1976).
COLT PYTHON (6 IN.)
The Python is back! Building on Colt’s Snake Gun legacy, the legendary double-action revolver returns in stainless steel in 4.25” and 6” barrel lengths. The 2020 Python features modern stainless steel alloys and a re-designed rear sight. Thirty percent more steel beneath the rear adjustable target sight gives you a stronger revolver and more robust shooting experience. A recessed target crown, user-interchangeable front sight, and Walnut grip with the iconic Colt medallion make this a gun you’ll want to shoot AND show off. The Python is chambered in .357 Magnum and also accommodates .38 Special cartridges.
COLT PYTHON (4.25 IN.)
Yes, it’s a big bastard. Feels heavier than a PDW like the SIG Copperhead or whatever…but that hardly matters. Which one would Steve McQueen have used? That’s right – not the subgun!
Reviews and Overviews
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.357 Python Disassembly
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Python History
• Colt Python Revolvers: The Rare and Unusual (Rock Island Armory)
• Colt Python: From the Vault (Brownells)
• A Closer Look at the Colt Python (Guns.com)
• A History of Colt Firearms (Gun History Jesus)
• Python .357 in Video Games
More online at Colt.com/python.
Check out Colt’s older Python revolver on IMFDB.
You about to do a search for “new guns 2020” on Google? Hit up that Mag Life article there.
Find what’s in stock, and where, and compare prices.
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I purchased a new Colt Python got it home and realized they had left the grip screw off the gun!!! The grips were so tight that they did not fall off. I’m dissapointed. Not much I can do about it. I would love a factory screw but will get on ebay and buy whatever I can find. Seems like they need an inspector before they put these in the box.
Which barrel length do you think will hold more future value, or does it really matter? thanks
How does this new version of the Colt Python compare to the original (classical?) model?