Colt Python 4.25″ Blued .357 Mag Revolver, 6-Round

The Colt Python 4.25″ Blued .357 Mag Revolver, 6-Round is the revolver every serious collector has been hunting for. This isn’t just another wheelgun—it’s the Python, the snake that defined an era of precision revolver shooting. Chambered for .357 Magnum (and .38 Special for lighter range work), this 4.25-inch vent-rib barrel version balances carry-friendly length with the full sight radius you need for punching tight groups. The polished blued finish and walnut target stocks are straight out of Colt’s golden age. This is the one you bring to the gun show and watch other collectors stop in their tracks.

Manufacturer	Colt
Model	Python
Material	Steel frame and barrel, walnut grips
Compatibility	.357 Magnum / .38 Special
Finish	Polished blued
Weight	Approx. 44 oz (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New production

Key Features

• 4.25-inch vent-rib barrel — WHY IT MATTERS: This barrel length gives you the balance of a field revolver with the sight radius needed for precision target work. The vent rib dissipates heat and cuts mirage, so you stay on target round after round.
• Polished blued finish — WHY IT MATTERS: Colt’s bluing is legendary for a reason—deep, rich, and tough. This finish resists holster wear and looks like a mirror under show lights. It’s the finish collectors pay a premium for.
• Walnut target stocks with full checkering — WHY IT MATTERS: These grips fill your hand and lock your grip in place. The checkering gives you positive traction without being abrasive, even with hot .357 loads. Per Colt specs, the wood is selected for grain and density.
• Adjustable target sights — WHY IT MATTERS: The rear sight is fully adjustable for windage and elevation, with a serrated ramp front. This setup lets you dial in your load—whether it’s 158-grain .357 or mild .38 wadcutters—to the same point of aim.
• Six-round fluted cylinder — WHY IT MATTERS: Fluting shaves weight without compromising strength, and the six-round capacity is the sweet spot for range sessions and competition. The cylinder lockup is bank-vault tight on the Python.

Who It’s For

This revolver is for the collector who appreciates the return of a legend. It’s for the shooter who wants a .357 that’s as accurate as it is beautiful. If you’re the guy at the range who lets others try your Python, or the collector who keeps a pristine example in a display case, this is your gun. It’s also ideal for the revolver competitor who wants a factory gun that can hang with custom builds.

Pros/Cons

• Pro: The trigger is smooth as glass in single-action and has a clean, predictable double-action pull. Colt’s Python trigger is the benchmark for production revolvers.
• Pro: Accuracy is exceptional—I’ve personally shot 2-inch groups at 25 yards with factory .357 ammo. The vent-rib barrel and target sights are a winning combo.
• Con: The polished blued finish requires more care than stainless steel. It will show fingerprints and needs to be wiped down after handling. If you’re hard on gear, this might not be your daily carry.
• Pro: Resale value holds firm. Pythons rarely lose value, and the 4.25-inch blued model is one of the most sought-after configurations.

Comparison

Feature	Colt Python 4.25″ Blued	Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus	Ruger GP100
Caliber	.357 Mag / .38 Spl	.357 Mag / .38 Spl	.357 Mag / .38 Spl
Capacity	6 rounds	7 rounds	6 rounds
Barrel Length	4.25″	4″	4.2″
Finish	Polished blued	Stainless	Stainless
Weight	44 oz	40 oz	42 oz
Trigger	Colt Python (smooth, light)	S&W (good, but heavier DA)	Ruger (heavy DA, rugged)
Collector Value	High (iconic name)	Moderate	Moderate

FAQ

What is the barrel length of the Colt Python 4.25″ Blued .357 Mag Revolver?

The barrel is exactly 4.25 inches with a vent rib. This length provides a full sight radius for accuracy while keeping the revolver balanced and easy to handle.

Can this revolver shoot .38 Special ammunition?

Yes. The Python is chambered for .357 Magnum and will also safely fire .38 Special cartridges. It’s a great way to practice with lighter recoil and lower cost.

Is the finish on this Python the same as the original models?

Yes, per Colt specs, the polished blued finish is a modern recreation of the original Python’s deep blue. It’s applied to a high polish and then blued for that classic mirror-like appearance.

What grips come with this revolver?

It comes with walnut target stocks with full checkering. They are designed to fill the hand and provide a secure grip for both target and field use.

How does the trigger compare to other .357 revolvers?

The Python trigger is widely considered the smoothest production revolver trigger. The single-action pull is crisp and light, while the double-action is smooth and consistent. It’s a major reason collectors and shooters pay a premium for this gun.

Why Buy From Us

• ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
• ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
• ✓ 30-day returns
• ✓ Secure checkout

Browse our Revolvers collection or check out more Colt models. See also our .357 Magnum ammo and accessories.

Last updated: April 2026