Selected Handgun Detail

Colt
Model Python
Colt Revolver Python .357 Mag Variant-8
Scale To:
Gun Dimensions Width:1.55-in
Length:8-in Height:5.5-in
Barrel:2.5-in Weight:38-oz
Variant 8 of 13
Gun Rankings
  • Power Factor (158 grain bullet)178540
  • Recoil Factor (158 grain bullet)8.08 ft-lb
  • Total Capacity6 rounds
  • ConcealabilityFair
  • Defense Factor67%
Gun Specifications
Type:Revolver
Produced:1955 - 1994
Caliber:.357 Mag
Action:revolving chamber
Trigger:double-action (DA/SA)
Safety:transfer bar
Cylinder:6-round
Frame:blued steel
Grip:checkered walnut
Sights:fixed front, adj. rear
Notes:First Generation
Manufacturer
Colt's Manufacturing Company, LLC
More Info
Gun Value
MSRP:No DataUsed Est:$815.00
Last Update:9/30/2024
About the Gun

The Colt Python is a double action handgun chambered for the powerful .357 Magnum cartridge built on Colt's large I-frame. Pythons have a reputation for accuracy, smooth trigger pull and a tight cylinder lock-up. Pythons have a distinct appearance due to a full barrel underlug, ventilated rib and adjustable sights.

Cartridge Specifications
Cartridge: .357 Magnum
Alias: .357 Smith & Wesson Magnum
More Info
Ballistics for This Gun
Selected Bullet Mass:158 grains
MV:1130 ft/sec ME:448 ft-lbs
About the Cartridge

Smith & Wesson introduced this cartridge for its heavy-frame revolver. Ammunition was developed by Winchester in cooperation with Smith & Wesson. Using a lengthened and strengthened version of the .38 Special case, the .357 Magnum was rapidly accepted by hunters and law enforcement. At the time of its introduction, it was claimed to easily pierce the body panels of automobiles and crack engine blocks. While it has less power than the .44 Magnum, it compares favorably to the 10mm Norma and .45 ACP, but with better armor penetration. Today factories offer over fifty different loadings in this caliber.

User Rating
2 User Ratings
2 User Comments
User Comments

5 of 5 Stars
Smooth Like Butter!
By Jagfan93 on 29 Sep 2021
Significant final hand-fitting by Colt Craftsman results in the smoothest and lightest trigger & hammer function of any .357 revolver ever made. My 1980 manufactured Python is identical to the Genitron photo listed here.


5 of 5 Stars
Colt Python stainless 6” barrel
By MikeB-21 on 29 May 2020
A very refined large revolver that is a joy to shoot. Shooting .38’s or .357’s is pleasant and Fit & Finish is the usual great Colt quality. Although it always functions and shoots very well with no quality issues whatsoever, the cylinder lockup is single point and is nowhere the strength of a Ruger or Smith & Wesson. Hence the reason for .357 rounds only. Still it most deservedly reserves a home to round out your collection! MikeB.