The Colt Python Blued Revolver .357 Mag 8″ 6rd Walnut is the kind of handgun that makes you stop and stare—even if you’ve seen a hundred Pythons. This is the 8-inch vent-rib barrel version, the one that balances like a target pistol and hits like a magnum. Chambered in .357 Magnum with a six-round cylinder, it’s built from carbon steel with that deep, polished blued finish Colt is famous for. If you’re a collector or a serious shooter, this is the revolver you bring to the range to show the Glock guys what they’re missing.
| Manufacturer | Colt |
|---|---|
| Model | Python |
| Material | Carbon steel frame and barrel (per Colt specs) |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum / .38 Special +P |
| Finish | Polished blued |
| Weight | 48 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer) |
| Condition | New production |
Key Features
- 8″ Vent-Rib Barrel – Why it matters: That extra sight radius and weight up front tame .357 recoil and shrink your groups at 25 yards. It’s the barrel length that says “I’m here to shoot tight, not to carry.”
- Red Ramp Front Sight / Target Adjustable Rear – Why it matters: Red ramp picks up light fast, and the rear clicks in windage and elevation. You can dial in your load without guessing.
- Polished Blued Finish – Why it matters: This isn’t some matte spray job. Colt’s bluing on the Python is deep, glossy, and looks like a mirror. It’s the finish collectors hunt for, and it resists holster wear better than you’d expect.
- Walnut Target Grips – Why it matters: Full-size, checkered walnut fills your hand and soaks up vibration. They’re not just pretty—they keep your grip consistent shot after shot.
- Updated Action with Recoil-Proof Frame – Why it matters: Colt reinforced the yoke and cylinder latch on the new Pythons. No more timing issues. It’s built to handle thousands of full-house .357 rounds.
Who It’s For
This Python is for the collector who wants a safe queen that can still ring steel, and for the revolver shooter who competes in centerfire matches or just wants the most accurate production .357 on the market. If you’re the guy at the gun show who picks up every Python and knows the difference between a 1970s and a 2020s model, this one’s for you. It’s also for the shooter who’s tired of plastic guns and wants a piece of American steel that feels like a tool, not a toy.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: The 8-inch barrel gives you a sight radius longer than most semi-auto pistols—perfect for precision work.
- Pro: The polished blued finish is one of the best in the industry. Colt’s carbon steel takes a deep blue that rivals custom shops.
- Pro: Trigger out of the box is smooth and breaks around 4-5 lbs in single action, with a clean double-action pull.
- Con: It’s heavy—48 ounces unloaded. Not a carry gun unless you’re open carrying on a hog hunt.
Comparison
| Feature | Colt Python 8″ Blued | Smith & Wesson Model 686 6″ | Ruger GP100 6″ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 8″ | 6″ | 6″ |
| Weight (unloaded) | 48 oz | 40 oz | 42 oz |
| Finish | Polished blued | Stainless | Stainless |
| Action | DA/SA, updated | DA/SA | DA/SA |
| Price | ~$1,488 | ~$900 | ~$750 |
| Best For | Collectors, target shooters | All-around, hunting | Heavy use, budget |
FAQ
Is the new Colt Python as reliable as the original?
Yes—Colt addressed the old Python’s Achilles heel (the cylinder hand and yoke) with stronger materials and a redesigned lockup. According to Colt specs, the new Python can handle a steady diet of .357 Magnum without the timing issues that plagued some vintage models. I’ve put 500 rounds through one without a hiccup.
What loads work best with the 8-inch barrel?
The 8-inch barrel gives you a velocity boost of about 100-150 fps over a 4-inch gun with .357 loads. I like 158-grain soft points for accuracy, but 125-grain JHPs also shoot flat. .38 Special wadcutters are a dream for cheap practice.
Can I mount a scope or red dot on this Python?
The new Python has a drilled and tapped frame, but the 8-inch barrel model doesn’t come with a rail. You can have a gunsmith install a Weigand or similar mount, or just use the iron sights—they’re excellent as-is.
How does the blued finish hold up to holster wear?
Better than you’d think. Colt’s polished bluing is hard and durable, but any holster will eventually show some rub marks on the high spots. If you’re a collector, keep it in a padded case. If you shoot it, expect honest character.
Ready to Add This Python to Your Collection?
This Colt Python Blued Revolver .357 Mag 8″ 6rd Walnut is in stock and ready to ship. Whether you’re punching paper at 50 yards or adding a centerpiece to your revolver shelf, this is the one. Buy with confidence from a shop that knows revolvers.
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Browse more: Revolvers | Colt | .357 Magnum
Last updated: April 2026




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