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

Henrylasr 01
Henrylasr 01

The Lever Action Supreme Rifle: Henry's 21st Century Lever Gun

The Henry Lever Action Supreme Rifle (LASR) is a step away from the company’s traditional-styled lever-actions, providing a number of features that carry the lever gun into the 21st century.

The Seekins Precision SIC: A Modular Rifle for Special Operations Use

Originally designed for a SOCOM military contract, the Seekins Precision SIC is designed for anyone who wants extreme long-range accuracy.

I Carry: Taurus TX9 Compact in a Galco Holster

In our latest "I Carry" segment, we pair the new Taurus TX9 Compact with a leather Stow-N-Go holster from Galco, Inc. This compact, concealed-carry kit is rounded out with an Xolotl automatic knife produced by CRKT.

The Armed Citizen® March 13, 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.

Review: Canik USA MC9 Prime

Canik USA built out its concealed-carry handgun lineup with the MC9 Prime, which is a larger, yet still slim, CCW gun that sits in the same category as other upsized micro-compacts.

U.S. Army Awards Mossberg Contract for Additional 590A1 Pump-Action Shotguns

The U.S. Army has awarded O.F. Mossberg & Sons a contract for approximately $11.6 million dollars to supply the U.S. Army with additional Mossberg 590A1 pump-action shotguns.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.