There were some snakes in the weeds at SHOT Show 2024, but you had to be looking for them to find one. What we’re metaphorically speaking to is the unveiling of NEW Colt Blued Python offerings in .357 Magnum after a 28-year hiatus. While some people adore the sight of a bright, stainless revolver, I am of the contrarian group that loves me a deep, blued revolver. So, I was quite giddy to see that Blued Python models are now a part of Colt’s portfolio of arms again.

Wheelgun Wednesday @ TFB

• Wheelgun Wednesday: The Rare, Budget-Minded Manurhin MR93
• Booligan’s Taurus Ultra Snubby Handgun – TUSH
• Throwing It Back With The Ruger Service Six
• Smith & Wesson Texas Rangers Bicentennial Revolver
• Colt Python Combat Elite .357 Magnum 3″ S/S

The Colt Blued Python Returns!

To kick things off, Colt started with 4.25″ and 6″ Blued Python offerings that both retail for an MSRP of $1,599. Historically, Colt manufactured 5 different barrel lengths of Blued Pythons, but we will get into that later. For now, this is the laundry list of specs for the new Blued Pythons coming to the market very soon if your local gun shop currently does not have any:

• Type: DA/SA (Double-Action/Single-Action)
• Cartridge: .357 Magnum/.38 Special
• Barrel Length: 4.25″ | 6″
• Barrel: One-Piece Full Lug, Vented Rib with Recessed Target Crown
• Rifling: 1 in 14″ Left-Hand Twist
• Capacity: Six Rounds
• Frame: Forged Carbon Steel
• Finish: Polished Royal Blued
• Overall Length: 9.75″ | 11.5″
• Height: 5.5″
• Overall Width: 1.55″
• Sights: Red Ramp Front (Interchangeable), Fully Adjustable (Windage & Elevation) Rear
• Grips: Target Walnut with Gold Colt Medallion
• Weight: 42 Oz | 46 Oz

These new Pythons feature a redesigned rear sight (in comparison to older models) with 30% more steel beneath the adjustable rear target sight. This gives you a stronger revolver, more robust shooting experience, and more reliability when you start playing with hot loads – whether they are reloads or spicy boxed ammo. The links for your two blued options can be visited via the links below:

• Colt Python .357 Magnum 4.25″ Blued | UPC: 098289003461 | SKU: PYTHON-BP4WTS
• Colt Python .357 Magnum 6″ Blued | UPC: 098289003478 | SKU: PYTHON-BP6WTS

The resurgence of a true legend – the Colt Python, now in a Carbon Steel Blued finish. The new Colt Python is a testament to timeless design and modern innovation. Initially offered in 4.25″ and 6″ barrel lengths in .357 Magnum, featuring a target adjustable rear sight and user-replaceable front sight, this legendary double-action revolver combines dependable and consistent performance with material innovations and upgraded actions. The black oxide finish, adorned with gold medallions, walnut grips, and signature vent rib barrel, pays homage to its iconic roots. The updated action ensures a consistent and reliable user experience. Responding to customer demand, the Blued Python returns, surpassing its predecessor in durability and effectiveness. The Colt Blued Python is a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and the relentless pursuit of perfection in every shot. Embrace the perfect blend of tradition and modern manufacturing in this reimagined classic.

For some people who don’t follow revolver pricing and the absolute hysteria of Python prices the past couple of decades, there might be some sticker shock to see that these new Blued Python models are the price of 4 Glocks… or, the price of your grandparents 1989 Cadillac DeVille with cigarette dishes in the door (super classy for high school first-dates). Nevertheless, for today’s revolver market, an MSRP of $1,599 might equate to a street price of ~$1,400 which is right in line with current stainless Pythons. Long gone are the days of sub-$1,000 snake guns, but let’s walk down that nostalgic road to see what was to have a better idea of what may be coming for us in the future.

Colt Python Blue or Royal Blue Finish (Mfg. 1955-1969)

Some of the very first Blued Python revolvers ever made were from 1955. Those early variants of Blued Pythons existed from 1955 – 1969 and can be identified by their serial number. Originally, they were numbered with numerical digits only with the first letter prefix or suffix used in serial number. Then, beginning in mid-1969, the serial number lead with the letter “E.”

These were offered in 4″ and 6″ barrels with fully checkered walnut grips with gold Colt medallions, and Accro flat-top sights. The Accro flat-top sight variants will command a substantial premium in today’s market. Even more rare are 2 1/2″ barreled models. Less practical to pragmatic shooters and lower in production numbers, they can fetch double the price of 4″ and 6″ barreled revolvers (~$4,500 or more in some instances).

Colt Python Blue or Royal Blue Finish (Mfg. 1970-1996)

These “newer” Blued Python revolvers came in a lot more barrel offerings as Colt understood the popularity of this Snake Gun. You could get these in 2 1/2″, 3″, 4″, 6″, or 8″ models. The 8″ model was great for target shooters and hunters while the newly introduced 3″ barrel offering became the new “Golden Goose” for collectors. Firearm collectors love chasing low production, peculiar offerings and the 3″ Blued Python usurped the 2 1/2″ for collectability and rarity; thus, value as well. If you can obtain a clean 3″ Blued Python from this period they sell in the ballpark of ~$5,000 or more.

The future of Colt Blued Python Revolvers

So, while I am elated that Colt has brought back their Blued Python revolvers, I also take a lot of delight in trying to predict the future (which isn’t that hard if we remember the past). With Colt immediately having available both 4.25″ and 6″ Blued Pythons, I would logically expect them to also bring to light 3″ and 8″ models very soon, but not too soon.

Since we’re all drug addicts addicted to wheelguns, we should slowly expect Colt to announce more barrel lengths to happily string us along for awhile. As always, let us know all of your thoughts about the new Blued Pythons and Colt in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback.

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