If you have been keeping on Colt's revolvers, you probably are aware that Colt has released 4.25" and 6" versions of the Python with a blued finish (in addition to the stainless versions already out there). Kevin McPherson, at the Revolver Guy blog, recently got his hands on a blued model and gives his review there. Most of his review was a review of how the Python shot, its fit and function, mechanical differences between the newer models of Pythons versus the old classic version, accuracy, etc. For instance, he thought it was more comfortable to shoot than the S&W 686 using factory stocks:
The “hump” of the grip’s back strap is sloped and less severe than on an S&W. It made the Altamont stocks more comfortable than the factory target stocks on a 686, for example. Covering the backstrap with soft rubber isn’t a necessity with the Colt. The muzzle heavy feel combined nicely with the shape of the backstrap to make magnums reasonable to shoot. The Remington SJHP stayed true to its roots and gave an average velocity of 1,536 fps–impressive velocity from a 4.25” barrel. Sixty rounds were fired on the maiden voyage.
He liked the accuracy, reporting:
I shot groups from offhand and field supported positions and came away very pleased with how the new Python shot. It would generally keep six rounds in an inch and a half to two inches, standing offhand at fifteen yards, whether I was shooting match wadcutter or Magnum fire breathers. From a prone position, or perched on a stadium seat cushion, most loads held two to three inches at 25 yards. I shot a few single action groups at twenty-five; They tended to be better than double action groups, but not by a great margin.
He found that while it gave good accuracy with lighter bullets, it gave its best accuracy when shooting Federal 158 grain JSP loads. The exception to accuracy was "CorBon’s .357 Magnum 100 grain Pow’RBall. It shot a disappointing group with a flyer that stretched it to 'barely on B-8 paper' from 15 yards."
But, with the weapon being offered in a blued finish, the big question is how good was the finish. McPherson reports:
When I removed the big revolver from its packaging, the first thing I noticed was my reflection in the frame. It had been very well polished before the finish was applied. The blue was deep and even, with no visible flaws. It was a shade or two darker than the classic “Royal Blue,” but it was very nicely done.
And that is what the accompanying photographs show.
If you are interested in the Python, or just beautiful revolvers generally, be sure to read the whole thing.
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