Colt Target Python .357 Mag 6″ Stainless Revolver, 6-Round

About this product

The Colt Target Python .357 Mag 6" Stainless Revolver is a modern stainless-steel target variant of the classic Python, designed for precision shooting with a 6-inch vent-rib barrel, adjustable rear sights, and a user-interchangeable green fiber-optic front sight. This configuration revives the Python's legendary name for contemporary target and competition applications. Built on a stainless frame with a six-round fluted cylinder, it operates in both double- and single-action modes, pairing classic profile with modern durability for the serious revolver shooter.

What is the Colt Target Python used for?

The Colt Target Python is built specifically for target shooting, steel challenge events, and as a high-end range gun where precision and sight customization are priorities. Its 6-inch vent-rib barrel provides a longer sight radius of 8.25 inches for more accurate shot placement, while the adjustable sights and target-style walnut grips are optimized for deliberate single-action fire from a rested position. It can handle .38 Special for lower-recoil practice and .357 Magnum for full-power stages, making it versatile for competition within revolver divisions, though its 43.7-ounce unloaded weight makes it less ideal for all-day field carry compared to a dedicated hunting sidearm. For general-purpose hunting, a more versatile and often more affordable option exists like the Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 Win, which offers greater effective range.

How does the Colt Target Python compare to a Ruger GP100 Match Champion?

The Colt Python generally offers superior out-of-the-box trigger smoothness and a more refined action feel in single-action mode, while the Ruger GP100 Match Champion provides greater durability for high-round-count training and a lower retail price near $850. The Python's hand-fitted action results in a crisper single-action break measuring approximately 3.5 pounds, versus the GP100's typically heavier 4.5-pound break, but Ruger's investment-cast frame is designed to withstand tens of thousands of full-power .357 Magnum rounds with minimal wear on the lock-up. For a shooter prioritizing the finest trigger for precision target work and collector appeal, the Python is the better tool, but for a hard-use training and field revolver that will see thousands of rounds annually, the Ruger provides better long-term mechanical value and a heftier 48-ounce weight to manage recoil.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

Unloaded, the Colt Target Python with its 6-inch barrel and walnut grips has a specific weight of 43.7 ounces (2.73 pounds or approximately 1239 grams), which is 2.3 ounces lighter than the original blued steel Python. Its overall length is 11.5 inches, with a barrel length of precisely 6.0 inches and a cylinder width of 1.73 inches. This weight, concentrated in the steel frame and under-barrel lug, provides significant stability for off-hand shooting, but the 11.5-inch length requires a holster specifically designed for large-frame revolvers with 6-inch barrels and may not fit standard pistol cases meant for semi-automatics. The grip frame height from the bottom of the backstrap to the top of the hammer measures 4.8 inches.

Who is this NOT for?

This revolver is not for budget-conscious shooters, anyone needing a compact concealed-carry firearm, or new shooters intimidated by the 15-20 foot-pounds of recoil energy from full-power .357 Magnum loads. The $1488.99 price point places it firmly in the premium firearm segment, making it a poor choice if your primary need is a basic defensive tool for under $500. Its 43.7-ounce weight and 11.5-inch length make effective concealed carry virtually impossible without specialized OWB holsters and clothing, and the sophisticated adjustable target sights are more fragile than fixed combat sights for rugged everyday use. New shooters may find its operation and maintenance more complex than a modern striker-fired pistol and the recoil more challenging to manage than with smaller-caliber options.

What's in the box?

The factory package includes the revolver itself, two keys for the internal lock system, a polymer hard case with foam insert, a 6-round capacity owner's manual/safety guide, and a standard cable lock for transport compliance. Unlike some higher-end custom offerings, Colt does not include additional front sight blades, a cleaning rod, or specialized tools, so you'll need to purchase a .38/.357 caliber cleaning kit and snap caps separately to maintain it properly. The cable lock is a universal type that fits through the ejection port and cylinder, complying with most state transport regulations during the 3-7 day standard shipping time for firearms. If you're also in the market for a field-ready shotgun, consider our selection of Stevens 555 Sporting O/U shotguns for a complete kit.

Is the Colt Target Python worth it at $1488.99?

The Colt Python commands its $1488.99 price if you value collector-grade craftsmanship, the smoothest factory double-action revolver trigger available today, and intend to use it primarily for precision target shooting where its sights and balance excel. You are paying for the CNC-machined stainless steel frame, meticulous hand-fitting of the action components, and the heritage of the Python name, not just raw material costs. For a shooter who needs a reliable, durable .357 Magnum for general field use or high-volume practice, a $700-$900 Ruger or S&W will perform nearly as well, making the Python's premium difficult to justify; it's an investment in a specific shooting experience, not just a functional tool. At this price, you should expect flawless fit and finish, which Colt delivers, but you must be honest about whether your shooting discipline requires that level of refinement or if a more practical platform would suffice.