New For 2022: Colt 3" Python

by
posted on January 5, 2022
** 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. **
Colt Python

Colt turned heads and was met with applause when the company revived its legendary .357 Mag. chambered Python revolver line in 2020. The new Python was only offered in two barrel length however, 4.25" and 6", leading to customer requests for Colt to reintroduce the shorter 3" barreled model as well. Now more than a year down the line, Colt has announced the re-release of the 3" barreled Python for 2022, after a two decade long production hiatus.

Like the two other versions with longer barrels, the 3" barrled version of the Colt Python is chambered for .357 Mag., with a 6-round cylinder. Its 3" barrel has six grooves with a twist rate of 1:14" left hand. The shorter barrel also gives this Python a smaller overall length of 8.5", while it otherwise remains similar to the others with a width of 1.55" and height of 5.5". The barrel, frame and cylinder are made of stainless steel, with extra steel added to the frame design in order to better handle more powerful .357 Mag. loads, resulting in an overall weight of 40 ozs., unloaded.

Aesthetically stylized off of the original Colt Pythons, the new 3" version has a double- and single-action trigger with an exposed spurred hammer, as well as a classically shaped cylinder release tap on the left side of the frame. The trigger pull has a double-action pull weight ranging between 7 to 9.5 lbs. The majority of the metal components, including the barrel, frame and cylinder, are finished with a semi bright polish. This is in contrast with the walnut stocks, which are also stylized after the original Pythons with deep checkering and embedded Colt logo medallions.

On top of the frame and barrel, the 3" Python also comes with black iron sights. The front sight is interchangeable and has a Red-Ramp face on the visible side, which allows the revolver to be zeroed with both full power .357 Mag. loads or softer .38 Spl. loads. The rear sight is match grade and can be fully adjusted for windage and elevation. For more information on the revived Colt 3" Python as well as the other revived Colt wheelguns, visit colt.com.

Latest

Glenfield Model A
Glenfield Model A

Review: Glenfield Firearms Model A

The Glenfield Firearms Model A is a stalwart budget option returning to the market under the Ruger umbrella.

Skills Check: Taking Time Off

Our drill this month is a real worker bee. It trains you to deliver a well-placed transition round and deliberately decreases the time it takes you to move the muzzle and set up for the next one.

Range Review: Canik Prime Radian

With the new Canik Prime Radian, you can have your compensator and your flared magazine well, too, all inside an easily carried, compact handgun.

New for 2026: Franklin Armory 5.56 Rabbit Rounds

Franklin Armory's new 5.56 NATO Rabbit Rounds provide a spin-stabilized, multi-projectile ammunition option for America's rifle.

ATF Ends Enforcement of NFA Registration & Approval Requirements for Suppressors, SBRs, and SBSs Following NRA Victory in Jensen v. ATF

Today, the ATF confirmed it will no longer enforce National Firearms Act (NFA) registration, application and tax-stamp requirements for short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, suppressors and certain other concealable firearms.

Gun of the Week: H&K VP9CC

Hot on the heels of its CC9 micro-compact, Heckler & Koch introduced a micro companion to its popular VP9 lineup that includes some noteworthy features.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.