Perfecting the Colt Python 3 Inch Revolver

The Colt Python 3 inch is already a gorgeous .357 Magnum, but two weaknesses kept it from perfection. Harrison Snake Sights and Hogue Monogrips changed that in a hurry.

Colt Python 3 Inch: The Snake Returns Stronger

In 2022, Colt fans were ecstatic when Colt brought back the King of the Colt revolvers. The return of the Python marked a new day for Colt and fans hoped it would be everything the old Python was.

The original Pythons were true works of art. Craftsmen took oversized parts and, using stones and files, carefully fitted them to the frame. The original Python was probably the most labor-intensive revolver of its time. Unfortunately, Colt discontinued Python in 2005. Ever since fans have begged Colt to resurrect the “Snake.”

In appearance, the new Python is a faithful rendition of the original. The new model retains the same graceful lines and vent rib that endeared the Python to its fans. However, this is not a remake of the original 1955 gun. In reality, Colt does not have enough skilled gunsmiths to manufacture Pythons in the old method. And, if they did, the cost of a Python would be astronomical.

Instead, Colt updated the Python with some very significant improvements. First, Colt has made extensive use of modern manufacturing technology to make individual parts to a higher tolerance. This eliminates most of the hand fitting that was so costly. Second, there are also subtle changes in design, specifically the frame, that make the new gun stronger than the original. This ensures that the new Python will withstand a steady diet of full house .357 Magnum loads. One great feature is that the user can change the front sight using an Allen wrench. Finally, Colt redesigned the rear sight to be more durable.

Why the 3 Inch Colt Python Hits the Sweet Spot

When Colt introduced a 3” version, I immediately ordered one. I consider a medium frame, 3” barrel, revolver to be the perfect fighting gun! So, I was very excited when the new Python arrived at my dealer.

Taking the 3” from the blue Colt box, I found an absolutely gorgeous pistol. The brightly polished stainless finish is flawless. The pistol is void of sharp and offending edges and there are absolutely no visible machine marks. The double action on the new gun is like glass and the single action breaks nicely at just over five pounds with no grit or excessive creep. For me, the 3” barrel is the perfect length for a carry gun and the balance of the Python is perfect.

Two Weak Spots Keep the Colt Python From Perfection

After an initial range visit, I found that the Python was lacking in two areas; the sights and the stocks. While not an issue for some shooters, I found the sights were difficult to acquire and index. The rear sight blade was very shallow and did not allow for a significant amount of light to either side of the front sight blade. I also had difficulty seeing the red ramp front sight blade.

The second issue with the Python was the stocks. I have two issues with the factory stocks. First, the stocks are not properly shaped for optimal recoil control. The taper of the stocks results in the hand riding up on the backstrap during recoil. In addition, the rear backstrap is not contoured. However, the most disappointing issue is the stocks do not fit the top of the back strap. The edge actually extends past the frame creating a sharp edge.

Harrison Snake Sights Fix the Python’s Sight Picture

John Harrison, of Harrison Design, is a good friend who happens to own a new model 4” Python. John is my age and we share the same issues with aging eyes. He found he was having the same issues with his Python as I was. While John is known for his custom work and extensive line of 1911 components, he is also a true wheelgun aficionado.

John set out to design a better set of sights for the Python. He has redesigned both the rear sight and the front sight for an optimized sight picture. The overall improvement is dramatic.

The height of the rear sight blade has been increased by .040, giving it a deeper notch. The width of the notch has been increased the width by .150” to allow for more daylight on each side of the front sight blade. The rear blade is also thicker than the factory blade increasing the strength against impact. Finally, he increased the size of the dovetail to reduce the play found in the factory blade.

The front sight blade is also higher to be compatible with the rear sight. The blade is .125” in width and available with a plain black serrated face, a fiber optic rod, or a 14K gold bead. Installation of the new sights can be done in just a few minutes using the supplied Allen wrench and a flathead screwdriver. I ordered a front sight with a flat-face gold bead.

Hogue Monogrips Tame the Colt Python’s Recoil

For the first 12 years of my law enforcement career, Hogue’s Monogrips were on my police service revolvers. The Hogues fit my hand well and the shape, when combined with the finger grooves, is very effective in controlling recoil and the pistol shifting in the hand. For the Python, I ordered a set of their over-mold rubber stocks.

Range Test: The Colt Python Upgrades Earn Their Keep

The really nice thing is the design of the Python enables the owner to replace the sights in a matter of minutes. Range time reflected just how much difference these two improvements made to my Python. The square front post, combined with the gold bead and larger rear sight aperture, improved alignment and tracking significantly. The Hogue stocks absorbed the recoil and eliminated any shift in my grip. The Python was pleasant to shoot, even with the hottest magnum loads.

I shot a modified “Test” from 10 yards, shooting two strings of five rounds each, with a par time for each string of five seconds. I used Speer’s 158-grain, Gold Dot Personal Protection load, which averaged 1,142 fps out of my chronograph. I dropped four points into the 9-ring while making the par time on both strings.

A Classic Colt Python Deserves Classic Leather

For my revolvers, I’m addicted to custom leather. For the 3” Snake, I contacted Mike “Doc” Barranti and ordered a Chairman holster and speed strip pouch. The Chairman is a high-ride, neutral cant, holster that can be worn both strong side and cross-draw. While my holster was plain finished, for those who like to dress up their leather, Doc does amazing borders and carvings. The pouch for the speed strip is open-top and designed for low-profile carry while keeping the strip easily accessible. The combination was perfect for the “Snake”. Barranti Leather Company

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Colt Python Legacy: A Classic Built to Be Shot

The new Python, Cobra, King Cobra, and Anaconda are some of the best revolvers to ever come out of Hartford. I have had an opportunity to shoot several new Pythons, along with a King Cobra and an Anaconda. The consistent quality and finish have impressed me. Having come up in the revolver era, I am encouraged to see a revival of the market. If you own an older Python, consider getting a new one to carry and shoot. If you have never owned a Python, here is your chance to own a classic!

Colt Python 3 Inch Pros and Cons

• Pros: Flawless polished stainless finish, glass smooth double action, excellent 3” balance, strong modern frame, user replaceable front sight, and excellent shootability after the sight and stock upgrades.
• Cons: Factory rear sight is shallow and narrow for the author’s eyes, the red ramp front sight is difficult for him to track, and the factory stocks did not provide his preferred recoil control or fit at the back strap.

Colt Python 3 Inch .357 Magnum Specifications

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