Colt Introduced a New Python Revolver for 2022: It is a New Year, and there is a new addition to the Colt Python line of revolvers. Often dubbed the “finest production revolver ever made” by noted collectors and gun writers, the Colt Python built a cult following among wheel gun enthusiasts when first introduced in 1955. The series continued to attract fans until it was announced in October 1999 that Colt would cease production, citing changing market conditions.
While the Colt Custom Gun Shop continued to produce a limited number of the acclaimed weapons on special order, production finally came to an end in 2005. For the next 15 years, Colt Pythons became sought after by collectors – and with renewed interest in the classic line, it was revived in January 2020.
The new Colt Python series that debuted two years ago was also built out of stronger stainless steel frames than the originals, which allows them to be fed a steady diet of hot magnum loads.
New Model for 2022
The new Colt Python revolvers were available with two-barrel length options: a 4.25-inch and a 6-inch. Yet, collectors have still longed for the 3-inch model, and this week Colt’s Manufacturing Company has announced that such a new handgun is now available.
As with the rest of the Colt Pythons, the 3-inch barreled version is chambered for the powerful .357 magnum and features a 6-round cylinder. Like the other models, cosmetically, the new model closely resembles the original revolvers produced from 1955 to 2000.
The 3-inch model offers a semi-bright stainless steel finished barrel and frame that is contrasted with rugged walnut grips that feature deep checkering and an inlaid golden Colt logo that is reminiscent of the classic. Its ribbed top strap and full-length underlug are also unchanged from the original.
All of the Colt Pythons are double- and single-action guns with a spurred hammer, and offer a silky-smooth trigger pull that has often been described as being second to none, and which is further credited to the weapon’s outstanding accuracy. A match-grade adjustable rear sight (for windage and elevation) and interchangeable red-ramp front sight allow shooters to zero the revolver with any load from full-house .357 magnums to .38 special target loads.
Colt Python 3-Inch Features:
Stainless Steel Frame
Walnut Grips
Adjustable Rear Sight (windage and elevation)
Interchangeable Red-Ramp front sight
Double and Single Action Trigger
Powerful .357 Mag cartridge
6-round capacity
Colt Python 3-Inch Specifications:
Caliber: 357 Mag
Capacity: 6 round
Barrel: 3-inch
Overall Length: 8.5-inches
Overall Height: 5.5-inches
Overall Width: 1.55-inches
Barrel Technical: 1:14 LH, 6 Groove
Frame: Stainless Steel
Finish: Semi-bright
Grip: Walnut
Sights: Rear, adjustable (windage and elevation); Front, red ramped
Trigger Action: Double Action/Single Action
Trigger Pull Double Action: 7.0 – 9.5 pounds max
Weight: 40 oz.
MSRP: $1,499
The Colt Python 3-inch is now available at select retailers.
Peter Suciu is a Michigan-based writer who has contributed to more than four dozen magazines, newspapers and websites. He regularly writes about military small arms, and is the author of several books on military headgear including A Gallery of Military Headdress, which is available on Amazon.com.
