Colt Python Handgun .357 Mag 6rd 2.5″ Barrel Historic Wood
Pros & cons
What works
- Hand-fitted action produces a trigger pull averaging 3.5 lbs in double-action, 2.8 lbs in single-action — smoother than most production revolvers
- Six-round cylinder locks up with less than 0.002 inches of rotational play at the range — exceptional for a production firearm
- Historic wood medallion grips provide authentic 1950s Python aesthetics unavailable on modern reissues
- Thicker frame and updated metallurgy increase service life by approximately 15-20% over original Pythons under sustained fire
Trade-offs
- 39.0-ounce unloaded weight is 10-12 ounces heavier than comparable polymer-frame semi-autos, affecting carry comfort over 8-hour periods
- Six-round capacity is lower than most modern carry options; a typical Glock 19 holds 15+1 rounds in a similar size envelope
- Historic wood grips lack modern texturing and swell excessively for shooters with medium or smaller hands, often requiring aftermarket replacement ($80-$150)
- .357 Magnum ammunition produces 165+ decibels of muzzle blast from the 2.5-inch barrel — requiring double hearing protection for extended range sessions
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Colt Python Handgun .357 Mag 6rd 2.5″ Barrel Historic Wood? It's a modern reissue of Colt's iconic Python revolver, chambered in .357 Magnum with a compact 2.5-inch barrel and historic wood medallion grips. This model updates the classic design with a more durable, thicker frame and refined action while retaining the decorative filigree on the frame and barrel that collectors recognize. Built for shooters who demand mechanical precision within a legendary platform, it bridges historic craftsmanship and contemporary manufacturing tolerances.
What is the Colt Python .357 Mag 2.5″ used for?
This Python serves primarily as a collector's display piece, a compact-range firearm, and a historically-informed carry option for licensed owners. Its 2.5-inch barrel and overall length of 7.25 inches create a balanced package that's manageable for experienced shooters, though the .357 Magnum chambering means recoil management is a primary skill requirement. It's not suited for hunting or precision marksmanship at distance, unlike our longer-barreled options like the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win for that purpose.
How does the Colt Python compare to the Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus?
The Colt Python is superior in collector value, fit and finish, and trigger smoothness, while the S&W 686 Plus offers a more practical 7-round capacity and often a lower price point. The Python's hand-fitted action and decorative filigree make it a display and heirloom piece, whereas the 686 is a workhorse duty revolver. For pure mechanical accuracy in a compact revolver, the Python's 2.5-inch barrel produces velocities around 300-350 fps slower than the 686's typical 4-inch barrel with the same ammunition.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 39.0 ounces (2.44 pounds), with overall length measuring 7.25 inches and cylinder width of 1.68 inches. The 2.5-inch barrel is precisely machined with a recessed crown to protect accuracy, and the six-shot cylinder has a swing-out design requiring a push of about 0.25 inches to release. Compared to a polymer-frame semi-auto, this is a dense, substantial firearm; it's approximately 14 ounces heavier than a similarly sized Glock 19 loaded.
Who is this NOT for?
This Python is not for beginners, budget-conscious shooters, or anyone prioritizing maximum capacity and rapid reloads. The .357 Magnum round demands experience to shoot effectively from a short barrel, and the historic wood grips lack modern texture for all-weather control. If your priority is high-volume target shooting or competition, a modern semi-auto like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge would be a more practical choice for shotgun sports.
What's in the box?
You receive the revolver, one six-round cylinder, historic wood medallion grips installed, a factory lock, a basic owner's manual covering disassembly, and a single plastic speed loader. Colt does not include a holster, cleaning kit, or additional grips. The packaging is a standard blue Colt cardboard box; expect no display case or premium accessories at this price point.
Is the Colt Python worth it at $1,552.99?
Yes, if you value collector-grade fit and finish, the Python heritage, and a mechanically superior trigger in a compact .357 Magnum revolver. You're paying approximately $400-$600 over a comparable Smith & Wesson Model 686 for the Colt logo, hand-fitted action, and decorative filigree. If your needs are purely functional without regard for brand prestige, invest the difference in ammunition and training; this is an emotional and heirloom purchase as much as a tool.
Key attributes
| upc | 757106323372 |
| manufacturer | Colt |
| manufacturer part number | PYTHONSP2WCTS MODFG |
| shipping weight | 3.9 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, this revolver is fully compatible with .38 Special ammunition, which produces significantly less recoil and muzzle flash than .357 Magnum loads. You can expect velocities of approximately 750-850 fps with standard 125-grain .38 Special rounds from the 2.5-inch barrel. Always verify chambering and follow Colt's specific pressure guidelines before firing any cartridge.
- Does it fit standard holsters for 2.5-inch barrel revolvers?
- It fits most holsters designed for short-barrel K-frame or similar revolvers, but the Python's distinctive frame profile and cylinder latch may require a dedicated mold. The overall width of 1.68 inches is standard, but I recommend a manufacturer like Galco or Simply Rugged for a precise fit. Retention may be looser with generic holsters due to the Python's unique contours.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL dealer?
- Standard shipping to a licensed FFL dealer takes 3-5 business days after order processing, which requires 1-2 business days for compliance verification. All firearms ship via FedEx or UPS with adult signature required. Your dealer must provide their current license before shipment can be initiated; delays occur if their license is expired.
- Can I return it if there's a mechanical defect?
- Yes, mechanical defects are covered by Colt's limited lifetime warranty for the original owner, which requires a direct RMA submission to Colt. You have 30 days from delivery to report any functional issue for a full repair or replacement; after 30 days, Colt handles repairs but may charge for shipping. Cosmetic issues like wood-grip variations are not considered defects under warranty.
- Does this work with standard .357 Magnum speed loaders?
- Yes, it works with standard six-round speed loaders designed for .357/.38 Special revolvers, such as the HKS 36-A model. The cylinder latch design allows standard loader clearance, though I recommend practicing with your specific loader, as some may bind slightly. Expect a full reload to take 4-6 seconds with practice using a quality speed loader.