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Colt Python
Model: Colt Python The Colt Python is a premium .357 magnum revolver, first released in 1955. They are known for being some of the most accurate handguns available, with a slick action and envible quality.
Originally, Colt manufactured Pythons with hollow underlugs but left them solid to work as a stabilizing barrel weight. When the revolver is at full c*ck, just as the trigger is pressed, the cylinder locks up for the duration of the hammer strike. Other revolvers have a hint of looseness even at full-c*ck. The gap between the cylinder and forcing cone is very tight, further aiding accuracy and velocity.
Each Python revolver was boresighted at the factory with a laser and was the first mass-produced revolver to do so. Even though the Python is mass-produced, each gun is assembled by hand, contributing to a high manufacturing cost per unit. In October 1999, due to rising production costs and limited sales, mass production of the Colt Python was terminated. A limited number were made on order by the Colt Custom Gun Shop until 2005.
The gun is available in 2.5, 4, 6, and 8-inch barrels. The 6-inch is generally the most popular. There's a somewhat uncommon 3-inch, which is very collectible. The Python was in use with American police in the 6 and 4-inch barrels until semi-automatic pistols became more common among law enforcement. The gun is still very popular on the used market for high prices.
Where to find:
Despite the termination of production, the Colt Python is still a very popular and sought-after revolver. Unfortunately, Pythons are quite pricey, with around $650-700 for a used gun. A revolver in mint condition with no rust and never fired (except factory testing) can go from $900 to $1300 in most circles. The 8-inch version was built for hunting, and is still used for that purpose.
Complexity:
Being a well-made revolver, the gun is very simple to use and much less complex and prone to failure than a semi-automatic. However, the gun has a tendency to go "out of time" with continuous heavy shooting; this is where the cylinder does not turn in exact alignment with the forcing cone, spraying the user with burning propellant when fired or even making the gun unable to fire in double-action mode. This requires re-timing of the lock work to fix.
Size and weight:
Barrel length
2½", 3", 4", 6" or 8"
38-48 ounces unloaded. Length mm. Height mm. Barrel mm.
Action:
Double-action with option for single-action
Caliber(s):
.357 Magnum.
Magazine:
6-round swing-out cylinder.
Trigger:
Double-action with exposed hammer.
Controls:
Cylinder release latch on the left side of the gun, just behind the cylinder. It is pulled rearwards to release the cylinder; some consider it awkward to use. Exposed hammer. Extractor rod on front end of cylinder. No external safety.
Loading: Condition One, or "Locked and Cocked." Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer cocked and safety applied.
As there is no external safety, this cannot be done.
Condition Two. Chamber loaded, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull the cylinder release towards the rear.
3) Examine the chambers and insert rounds.
4) Push the cylinder closed. Do not slap it or try to flip it shut.
Condition Three. Chamber empty, magazine full, hammer down, safety off.
This is not possible with a revolver. Technically it can be done by keeping the chamber under the hammer empty.
Unloading:
1) Point in a safe direction. Critical step in case the gun accidentally discharges!
2) Pull back the cylinder release latch.
3) Unload the cylinder, pushing the ejector rod if necessary.*
4) Push the cylinder closed. Do not slap it or try to flip it shut.
*Some advise against slapping the ejector as it can bend the rod.
Field Stripping:
The Colt Python is built to very strict and exact tolerances, and only a trained gunsmith with a special wrench should attempt to disassemble one.
Design Quirks:
Unique aspects of this gun.
Jahadaz |
Latest page update: made by Jahadaz
, Nov 21 2010, 9:14 PM EST
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