Colt Python .357 Magnum 8″ Matte Blued, Walnut Grip, 6-Rd

Here’s the deal: the Colt Python .357 Magnum 8″ Matte Blued, Walnut Grip, 6-Rd is the revolver that built the legend. Chambered for .357 Magnum (and .38 Special, per Colt specs), this 8-inch-barreled Python delivers the stabilizing sight radius and ballistic consistency that serious shooters demand. Fitted with walnut grip panels bearing the Colt medallion and a matte blued finish across frame, barrel, and cylinder, it’s a six-round swing-out cylinder gun that operates in both double and single action. This is the Python that collectors chase — and for $1290.76, it’s a straight-up investment in American revolver history.

Manufacturer	Colt
Model	Python .357 Magnum 8″ Matte Blued
Material	Carbon steel frame, barrel, and cylinder per Colt specs
Compatibility	.357 Magnum / .38 Special
Finish	Matte blued across barrel, cylinder, and frame
Weight	Approximately 48 oz (unloaded, per Colt factory data)
Condition	New production — factory-fresh with Colt warranty

Key Features

• 8-inch barrel for extended sight radius: Why it matters — that extra 2.5 inches over the standard 4.25″ Python gives you a 10.5″ sight plane, making precision shots at 25+ yards feel surgical.
• Double/single action trigger system: Why it matters — the Python’s single-action pull breaks like a glass rod at around 4.5 lbs, while the double-action stroke is buttery-smooth, giving you carry-ready versatility without sacrificing accuracy.
• Matte blued finish on carbon steel: Why it matters — this isn’t a shiny safe queen; the matte blued treatment reduces glare in the field and on the range, and the carbon steel frame soaks up .357 Magnum recoil better than stainless alternatives.
• Walnut grip panels with Colt medallion: Why it matters — the walnut provides a solid purchase without being sticky, and the medallion tells everyone you’re running a genuine Colt, not a copy.
• Six-round swing-out cylinder: Why it matters — quick reloads with full-moon clips or speedloaders, and the traditional swing-out design is faster to clear than a top-break or gate-load system.

Who It’s For

This Python is for the collector who wants a long-barrel snake gun with factory-correct walnut and matte blued finish. It’s for the silhouette shooter who needs the 8-inch barrel’s stability for steel at 50 yards. And it’s for the guy who knows that a .357 Magnum Python with an 8″ tube is the revolver that won the 1970s IHMSA matches — and still holds its own today.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Legendary Colt Python trigger (both SA and DA); 8-inch barrel gives you a 10.5″ sight radius; matte blued finish reduces glare and shows less wear than high-polish; walnut grips look classic and feel solid; .357 Magnum power with .38 Special plinking option.
• Cons: The 8-inch barrel makes this a range or competition gun — not a concealed carry piece; the matte blued finish will show holster wear faster than a stainless Python; and at $1290.76, it’s an investment, not a budget buy.

Comparison: Colt Python vs. Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus vs. Ruger GP100

Feature	Colt Python 8″ Matte Blued	Smith & Wesson Model 686 Plus 6″	Ruger GP100 6″
Barrel Length	8 inches	6 inches	6 inches
Capacity	6 rounds	7 rounds	6 rounds
Finish	Matte blued (carbon steel)	Stainless steel	Stainless steel
Trigger (SA)	~4.5 lbs, glass-rod break	~3.5–4 lbs, crisp	~4.5–5 lbs, heavier
Price (approx)	$1,290.76	$850–$950	$700–$800
Collector Value	High — limited production runs	Moderate — common	Moderate — common

FAQ

What is the barrel length on this Colt Python?

This specific model has an 8-inch barrel. That gives you a 10.5-inch sight radius, which is ideal for long-range revolver shooting — think 25 to 50 yard steel targets.

Can I shoot .38 Special through this Python?

Yes. Per Colt manufacturer specs, the Python is chambered for .357 Magnum and is fully compatible with .38 Special ammunition. Just note that .38 Special may leave more carbon in the chambers, so clean thoroughly after range sessions.

Is the finish actually matte blued or is it a coating?

It’s a true matte blued finish applied to the carbon steel frame, barrel, and cylinder. It’s not a paint or Cerakote — it’s a hot-blued treatment with a matte final surface that reduces glare and shows the steel’s natural character.

How many rounds does the cylinder hold?

Six rounds in a traditional swing-out cylinder. You can use full-moon clips for faster reloads, or load individually.

Is this a new production Python or a vintage model?

This is a new production Python from Colt’s current manufacturing line. It carries the same fit and finish standards as the original 1955 design, but with modern metallurgy and quality control.

Why Buy From Us?

• ✓ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
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See more: Revolvers | Colt Firearms | .357 Magnum Handguns

Last updated: April 2026