The Original Colt Python Revolver: Iconic History

Until recently, original Colt Pythons were scarce. Although production was plentiful through the 1980s, Colt struggled to get its act together and produce revolvers for decades after that. Those 1st Generation Python sixshooters were coveted by all and sold by few. Being featured as the chosen sidearm of the primary character in the hit TV show The Walking Dead drove the popularity of the Python through the roof and contributed to the demand that ultimately inspired Colt to bring out the 2nd Generation Python in stainless steel in 2020 and the subsequent blued version that’s new for 2024. (See Joel Hutchcroft’s report on the new blued Python elsewhere in this issue of Shooting Times.) The new 2nd Generation Pythons are said to be built of better steel than the originals and to feature a couple of design corrections that eliminate the Python’s tendency to go slightly out of time after high-volume use with heavy magnum loads. However, the original 1st Generation Python is and always will be special. Unlike the modern versions, which rely on CNC machining and precise MIM parts, the 1st Generation revolvers were handfitted by Colt’s finest gunsmiths. Those 1st Generation Python revolvers achieved a level of smooth sophistication never previously seen in a double-action revolver.

Colt opted to engineer the Python with a V-shaped mainspring rather than the leaf spring used by S&W or the coil spring used by Ruger. While some claim the V-spring isn’t as durable as the others, it’s undeniably the smoothest-feeling. According to one source, the Python was originally intended to be a target revolver chambered in .38 Special. That’s why it came standard with refined adjustable sights, a full barrel underlug that added aim-stabilizing weight, and a ventilated rib atop the barrel. Exacting attention was given to ensure Pythons had a smooth, crisp trigger pull. Python revolvers were the first to feature Colt’s superb Royal Blue finish, the result of a wonderfully fine polish before bluing. Colt’s nickel finish was added not long after the model was introduced. Several barrel lengths were offered, from 2.5 to 8.0 inches, with the 4.0-inch versions becoming widely favored by peace officers. I don’t have total production numbers, but about 100,000 were produced between 1955 and 1969. Beginning in the 1980s several additional variants were offered. Among the most common were stainless-steel versions. Some, like the Stalker and the Silhouette, came as ready-to-go combinations. In 1997 the Python was shifted from the standard production line to Colt’s Custom Shop, where it was produced in limited numbers until being discontinued in 2004.

Mechanicals

Colt’s Python revolver cylinders rotate clockwise, unlike S&W and Ruger revolver cylinders. Uniquely, cylinder lockup completes as the trigger releases and the hammer begins to fall, resulting in a very tight, consistent mechanism. Loading and firing the Python is much the same as with any other double-action revolver, so I won’t detail the step-by-step process here. It’s worth noting, however, that the cylinder latch must be pulled rearward to unlock and open the cylinder. I found the Python reviewed here at Neal’s Gun Shop (my favorite little historic shop in northern Utah). It was built in 1970 and has some holster wear and signs of use but appears to have been well cared for. All appears to be original, aside from the aftermarket Pachmayr grips. Aside from that, I have no information about the history of this particular Python. I do, however, have a little personal history with the model—or perhaps I should say longing absence of history with it. When we were young, my brother and I inherited two handguns from a wealthy old doctor we trained horses for. I got a Colt 1911 Gold Cup .45 ACP, and my brother got a pristine, like-new Python. That was before Pythons were worth a mint, and he packed it over a lot of long weeks working cattle in southern Utah’s desert country. It’s now very well worn. At any rate, I’d always admired that revolver but could never justify the expense to own one for myself. Neal’s had this Python priced right, so I purchased it.

Rangetime

At the range, recoil with the .38 Special loads was mild, and the clean, crisp trigger pull made my Python easy to shoot. The sights were spot on, and  the Black Hills 125-grain JHP +P load took top honors in the accuracy department, averaging 1.56 inches. Predictably, the .357 Magnum cartridges kicked harder, but accuracy was still good. The results are listed in the accompanying chart. Throughout my testing the old Python functioned perfectly. Operation was smooth as silk. I experienced a trace of particulate blowback during a few of the shots with the .357 Magnum ammo, making me wonder if the revolver could be slightly out of time—something not uncommon among well-used Pythons. Even if so, it’s not really an issue aside from a potential slight degradation of accuracy and that tendency to spit a little. My 1st Generation Python’s value is somewhere between $1,500 and $1,800, and being a lover of vintage firearms in original condition, I’m torn. I could send it off to Bobby Tyler, a Python specialist in Texas, to be retimed and maybe even given a restoring coat of rich Royal Blue. Decisions, decisions. While I ponder whether that’s a good idea, I’ll just keep enjoying my “new” old Python exactly as is. 

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