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Colt Python (2020) — Description

The Colt Python is a .357 Magnum caliber revolver formerly manufactured by Colt's Manufacturing Company of Hartford, Connecticut. It is sometimes referred to as a "Combat Magnum". It was first introduced in 1955 and was produced until 1999 (though custom builds continued until 2004). The Colt Python was intended for the premium revolver market segment and was frequently used by target shooters and law enforcement. As such, all Pythons were extensively hand-fitted and polished by experienced gunsmiths and renowned for their impeccable quality, accuracy and trigger. Some firearm collectors and writers such as Jeff Cooper, Ian V. Hogg, Chuck Hawks, Leroy Thompson, Scott Wolber, Renee Smeets and Martin Dougherty have described the Python as the finest production revolver ever made. Because of its quality and prestige, the Python has enjoyed a loyal following for many years, which has only been fueled by its many appearances in films and television. On January 1, 2020 Colt re-introduced the Python revolver. Externally, the "2020 Python" is almost an exact replica of the original Python (though a close examination will reveal small differences), but internally it is different and also made of a stronger steel alloy. Colt has stated that the new Python is designed for heavy magnum loads, having fired 12,000 .357 Magnum cartridges through a test model without any mechanical or structural failures. In addition, Colt pulled the trigger 40,000 times with no timing issues. The new Python is available in the following barrel lengths: 2.5 inches (64 mm), 3 inches (76mm), 4.25 inches (107mm), 5 inches (127mm) and 6 inches (152mm). From 2020 - 2024 the new Python was available only in stainless steel and wooden grips. At the 2024 SHOT Show Colt unveiled the new blued steel model.