Gun Tests shooters had a lot of fun pitting two 357 Magnum revolvers in the October 2024 issue.
Contributing Editor Joe Woolley’s Houst on test team fired a Smith & Wesson Model 586 and a 4-inch-barrel Colt Python head to head.
Colt Python PYTHON-BP4-WTS 357 Magnum, $1600
Smith & Wesson Model 586 150909 357 Magnum, $900
We selected a range of bullet weights for this test, including 110-grain jacketed hollow points, 125-grain all-copper hollow points, and 158-grain jacketed soft points.
Both of these revolvers feature well-crowned muzzles with the Python (left) showing a recessed style (arrow) for extra protection.
Both revolvers sport beveled cylinders for easier holstering, but the Python at right shows a bit of extra work there (arrow).
Like many features on these handguns, the grips are similar in size and appearance. The Python is shown at left.
The Python shown at left had the better double-action trigger pull, but we preferred the smooth face on the 586 for comfort and function.
The Python posted very good results with all three ammo weights tested.
The S&W 586 preferred the two lighter bullets, like this group with the Corbon 125-grain DPX.
These three targets show the progression of our shooting with the Python in the speed runs.
The S&W also kept all rounds in the A Zone, but its heavier trigger made us push to the right.
Normally, we’d choose a winner between these two, but these revolvers graded out so closely, that the shooter will have to determine if the Python is worth the extra $700.
So pick one and have fun! We’ll see you at the range.
