Compared: Colt Python vs Ruger GP100 Match Champion

[@cooperbon5771]

Just picked up a 4.25 inch Python. The DA is unbelievable. I have never felt anything like it. Just so smooth.

[@kenv47]

Just got my 4 1/4" Python . Ordered it on January 2. I then stood in line the other day for over 3 hours to pick it up. It was worth the wait & the msrp. It`s just as nice & smooth as the one I bought back in 1972.

[@KoshN]

Still like the triple lock-up of the Ruger better. Wish you would have compared similar barrel lengths, weighted barrel, for recoil/muzzle flip comparison, e.g. standard Ruger GP100, Model 1704, 6 inch barrel with Hogue monogrip, MSRP $769, or the Model 1707 in stainless for $829.

[@jimmyruger7529]

I would choose the Ruger, for long term wear and relability, even if my name was Jimmy Colt

[@albertforletta1498]

Well said. I also have a Ruger gp100, and I have abused the hell out of it. Reloads too hot. To this day, and I believe far into the future, it shoots perfectly every time I pull that trigger.

[@locomike102]

I agree. A Python has been my dream gun since I was a kid but the reality is that I buy guns to carry, shoot and use, and I just wouldn't get as much use out of a Python. It would stay in the safe while I'm walking the woods or desert with a Ruger or a Smith.

[@pinslayer4579]

I've always worked for a living so from a semi poor man's view I can buy two match champions for the price of a new Python and four or five for the price of an old Python. Ruger always had a reputation as a workin man's gun.

[@dimassalazar906]

I got the new Python. The frame is thicker and a stronger metal. I haven't had any problems. Except shooting up all my ammo. I lived a long time doing without. Kids gone and it's time to live a better life.

[@frankstelloh9416]

It's amazing what a good gunsmith can do! You can have a trigger job done, and it will put the Pythons trigger to shame.

[@richardjones990]

Python for me as I shot the first gen of one when I was a kid. I didn't know what it was at the time but I did know it shot really well. Now I'll need to save the money to buy one of my own. Thanks for the review.

[@burmiester1]

These new ones aren't anything like the old ones.

[@jameswarrick9042]

Yes they are. I own an early 80s and a new one. And they're both about the same to me.

[@burmiester1]

@@jameswarrick9042 Then surely you'll notice the sloppy rollmark, poor finish, lack of a cylinder stop, poorly checkered and finished grips, completely different looking trigger, I could go on. Seriously compare just the hammers on the new guns, it's no contest, the sheer lack of attention to detail on the new "Python" is staggering, especially for the price Colt is laughably charging. These 2020 Pythons don't even have a royal blued option! The 2020 Pythons only come in stainless and, frankly, I think Ruger does a better stainless finish at more than half the cost!

[@jameswarrick9042]

They are slightly different But the shootability of the 2020 is right on par with the old. I had my doubts too. Yes the hammer, roll marks, etc... is all cosmetic, and even then it really isnt that bad. They did a good job on the 2020. The old will always be special. And yes more than likely better built. But the new is a great gun, and is the best revolver on the market right now. And it can shoot with the old all day long.

[@smithn.wesson495]

I own both the 2020 Python and GP100 Match Champion. Both are very good revolvers and both are extremely accurate, but the Python has a much nicer fit, finish and trigger. There is no comparison between the DA trigger, the new Colt is 100 times better. The Ruger DA trigger has a lot longer pull and much heavier weight in pounds. Yes, the New Python costs more, but it is worth the extra money. Here is another huge difference....the Python is nearly all forged steel (only 4 non-stress parts are MIM) with a solid, one piece barrel. The GP100 is cast, MIM and a two piece barrel - thus the difference in price. Colt added 30% more steel in the New Python and it shows. Just look at the thickness between the trigger and hammer pieces on the two revolvers, again no comparison.

[@albertforletta1498]

I agree. However, just something to consider. I have abused the hell out of my Ruger with reloads being too hot. My Ruger shoots perfectly every time I pull that trigger. I’m wondering if Colt,Smith &Wesson, etc..... can handle all of that abuse.

[@smithn.wesson495]

Albert Forletta I agree, 100 percent. Colt claims they put over 40,000 rounds of 357 through a New Python prototype during development and testing. Let’s hope that was true, but the 2020 Python is still too new for the real world, real people results after years or decades of abuse to see how it holds up. I agree and you will wear out an anvil before you will hurt a Ruger.

[@shwesq]

The standard GP100 has a one piece barrel and I would be surprised if the Match Champion did not as well. The "target crown" on the Match Champion makes it look as if it is a two piece barrel.

[@alupangguam7560]

@@shwesq I think you are correct here about the Ruger's barrel. It's S&W that is moving this way. Recently inspected a new $900 Model 66-8 Combat Mag 357 with a 2 piece barrel. Had a cheap cast trigger, hammer and cyl release as well as a "bead blasted" finish similar to cheaper guns like Charter Arms Undercover & Taurus. I'd take a Ruger over newer Smiths all day long, if price was a factor. No Hillary hole.

[@FirearmEnthusiast]

@@alupangguam7560 You’re nuts if you think a bead blasted finish on high-end firearm looks bad. Maybe on a stainless revolver I would agree with you.

[@PRACERZ]

LOVE my Match Champion !!! Money very well spent. IMHO

[@zachb.6606]

Great presentation and fitting comparison. I imagine someone in the market for a Colt would consider the Match Champion as a budget alternative, or vice versa (i.e., someone looking to spend a little more for a refined Ruger might consider saving a little more for the Python). That's kind of where I am right now. There are also some really nice TALO editions of the GP-100 that would come into play, but those don't seem to stay on the market long.

[@carbonunit57]

For 20 dollars in springs and a little polishing compound, the Ruger can have a lighter trigger and just as smooth as the python.

[@BobNH3]

Not exactly, take it from someone who’s done the whole 9 trigger job on a GP, it still can’t get as nice, smooth and non-stacking of the Python.

[@davidgreve2181]

I bought my first Ruger in a Service - six back in 1972. Ruger would be my choice because I loved how it shoots, and Ruger cannot be beat for customer service. Another thing I love about it is it can be field dressed with a dime. So easy to clean and oil, and put back together .

[@reb1050]

My first Ruger was bought back in 76. I still have it and it's still as accurate and dependable as it was when I bought it new. I did buy a GP100 Match Champion about 6 yrs. ago. I was offered one at a price I could not refuse. The Security Six slightly lighter and shorter barrel so it is my winter and hunting carry (shoulder holster), and the GP100 stays at home for a backup of my .12 ga.

[@240fxst]

My first revolver coming after Kali background check. Colt python was my choice. I hope I can shoot it as well as it looks. Thanks for sharing.

[@nathand3270]

Both are great guns. The Python is far better looking and has an extremely smooth trigger. The Ruger is cheaper and a workhorse.

[@robertelder164]

Less expensive

[@electricgamez5415]

Another great video. Thanks for exposing us to a pair of firearms I probably wouldn’t be so exposed to.

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you.

[@sarsanch]

Mechanically Ruger GP100 finish has a lot to be desired.

[@smithn.wesson495]

Exactly!

[@johndilday1846]

I loved the looks of the old Pythons, and was surprised years ago when I shot a friend's 4" stainless model with the intention of buying one of my own if I liked it; only to find that I hated how the grip fit in my hand when I shot it. I had several Smith &Wesson revolvers, and liked how they shot for me. So it was a surprise to me when tried the Python and hated it. I purchased a Ruger Gp100 a few years later after trying out one that a friend owned. I suppose the moral to the story is not to rely solely on looks, go to a shooting range that has a rental of what you want to buy so you can take it "for a test drive" before you buy it. I saved myself a lot of money and aggravation by not blindly buying a Python. I had handled one before, but had never fired one, and until I shot it, I never suspected that I would dislike it.

[@alupangguam7560]

The old Python's grip angle and more curved trigger caused my trigger finger to be uncomfortably tweaked downward. The new Python doesn't do this. Fits my hand perfect. Try the new Python.

[@RickyJr46]

The Match Champion's original wood grip is from Hogue, and it reminds me a lot of Fuzzy Farrant's creations.

[@westtexan2263]

I don't like any .357 that can't take a steady diet of the very cartridge that it is chambered for. The old python couldn't do it. I guess time will tell if the new one can. For myself it's Ruger all the way.

[@redsky8509]

now the S&W Performance Center 686, please

[@danielaramburo7648]

I would prefer the Gp. It shoots very nice. Very controllable with hot 357.

[@michaelk5173]

Old to the conversation, but I would rather see the 4 inch Python, making the handling closer for shooting purposes...

[@davidgiles9751]

If money wasn't an issue, I'd own both. Since money is an issue, I'll stick with my Match Champion. I absolutely love it - although I might have to get that houge grip.

[@8686872]

Like them both, but ... you know there was a "but" coming -- never have liked the huge "Match Champion" on the barrel of the GP100.

[@JesseGacria357]

Hey, love your videos. Can you do a comparison between the 686+ and the python? Thank you, have a nice day.

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you. We don't currently have a 686 available but I will add it to our list in case we can get our hands on one.

[@mauriceorayii2964]

Two of my favorite 357's! 🇺🇸

[@alexanderbender3082]

What a complete review.

[@Saori-chan74]

I picked the Ruger MC over the Python back in 2019, but then again I picked the SW 686+ over both plus I got 7 rounds in 357 😏

[@jennibaker3444]

As much as I love "The Walking Dead" I have to go with the Ruger.

[@MPGunther1]

Nice look at the two

[@sky4149]

Good video. I have been extremely disappointed with the 2020 python as mine came with a 6lbs single action trigger pull, so mine is at a specialized gunsmith. I have been extremely disappointed for a gun in that range. Lastly don't expect the python to lower as colt may actually raise the price as people are willing to pay more.

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you. It will be very interesting to see if the pricing settles down or the supply stays short (driving the price up).

[@davidgreve2181]

Magnaport either one and it will be rock steady in your hand and you will love it even more! It's much louder if you do that, so wear Really good ear protection and you'll love how they group!!!

[@bullpup33]

You canalso do a trigger job on the Ruger. I definitely perfer the feel and shooting of the MC. That metal rod in any revolver hurts my bones. The ability to have a full rubber grip is gold for me. YMMV

[@vernsquash8883]

Very well done! An accuracy comparison at 25yds. using a bench rest would have made it PERFECT.

[@stchman]

More like $1000. The Python is still commanding MSRP+ while you can get a Match Champion for ~$800. I got a fantastic deal on my Match Champion for $525 lightly used(I don't think the guy before me shot more than a box). Mine has the Novak sight(I wish it had the fully adjustable sight), but I could not pass up the price.

[@bstimy]

I love love my match champion

[@rosiebear8085]

You should compare the Python to the Super GP 100- 5.5 barrel

[@roberthall4093]

Not apples to apples comparison. Full lug and same barrel length would help.

[@oldcop18]

Five hundred bucks will buy a lot of ammo.

[@mrglock2313]

Yes, 500 rounds 😂

[@mrglock2313]

One of these will come with flaws and defects the Ruger on the other hand will come unblemished 😂

[@tomallen6073]

Come up with extra 5 bills and buy the snake gun. Nobody wants to check out my gp100 at the range, my python, different story. I’ve had girls take off their clothes just to shoot it….not really, but it could happen. You won’t get that kinda action with a Ruger.

[@blastingcapps4341]

That's a good one

[@lownr]

Lmaof…. What girl wouldn’t want hold a Python in her hands…

[@frankstelloh9416]

You can have a gunsmith refine your Ruger GP 100 for way cheaper than $500,and it will be slicker and smoother than the Colt Python. I know because I have already done that with mine and have done the comparison. Fact!

[@colinj5291]

Yeah but the GP 100 is an ugly, overbuilt beast while the Python is elegant and classic looking.

[@mikecampbell5856]

I bought my GP100+ before the Python came out. I compared it to the Colt King Cobra Target and the Colt felt like a lightweight and I just didn't like the feel.

[@morriszachrisson8359]

I would choose the legendary Python, not this new.

[@mikedgg2]

Two beauties!

[@justinbushman277]

Colt Python all the way!!

[@toxmarty2648]

Rear sight on colt looks maxed left ?

[@smithn.wesson495]

Both the GP100 Match Champion and Colt Python have adjustable rear sights. If the user needs to move the sight to the left for his/her own preference, who gives a ship? A little desperate to find ANYTHING to complain about?

[@toxmarty2648]

@@smithn.wesson495 I'm sure Colt would fix it ..... Ruger Does ....... Try shooting @ 200 if it still prints with no KW I'd be surprised ...... tox

[@HammerStriker]

It is half-way between the center dot and left most dot (dots are on the body). It is not maxxed but I did have to adjust it.

[@toxmarty2648]

@@HammerStriker Indexing or out of square I guess ... Had a security six like that ..Ruger fixed .

[@TietLung]

Already have several rugers, but no python. So i guess i have to get a python now. Long as it can handle a steady diet of nothing but 357 magnums. Cause thats all i put in a 357.

[@Artty-fl8ul]

I know it's nice but, It ain't 500 extra dollars nice!

[@colinj5291]

Ruger's finish is shit compared to the Colt.

[@alupangguam7560]

It's not shit I would say. It's the result of 50% less polishing labor cost. It's nice to have a a choice in what you pay for. Some people do not care about finish and/or do not want to pay for it. The Ruger is a work horse "Sears Craftman" tool. The Python is a "Snap On". A good Seiko Divers watch VS Rolex would be the most extreme example I can think of.

[@colinj5291]

@@alupangguam7560 Good point. And even the new Python's finish is okay. I wish they would offer nickel and blued finishes. Smith & Wesson still makes blued revolvers.

[@michaelmetler6315]

Colt!

[@Eddy-gc2vx]

The colt cant beat the 686 s w. I doubt if it could our last the gp 100 even. Python is beautiful but some issues not completely addressed. It maybe , but a loose side plate screw soound really weak. There is more to the story???. We shall see.

[@morriszachrisson8359]

None of them. Only that real, vintage Python.

[@marryson123]

I’m here to save you $2000. I bought the 2020 python. It’s absolute garbage. I spent almost 2k for a piece of trash. Their customer service is horrible. Don’t buy! I bought the 2nd gen version which supposed to fixed all the problems Hickok45 had. Well more problems along with the existing ones. From missing parts like like see on KZbin and forums to more malfunctions. I hope colt actually go bankrupt and let their old legacy be their legacy.

[@brianb900]

What we’re all the issues that you had? I just bought one and haven’t even shot it yet.

[@zachmcclintock2041]

Brian B dont pay this guy any mind. He’s obviously just trashing colt. I highly doubt he even owns a python

[@TheBadassOne17]

@@zachmcclintock2041 he commented on every colt video, he’s just mad his head ass bought it over msrp

[@danielaramburo7648]

The python has a weak hand that breaks easily.

[@ostiariusalpha]

To you have any evidence that the new Pythons have a weak hand problem? I'm guessing that you don't.

[@danielaramburo7648]

ostiariusalpha Look up yankee marshal python.

[@ostiariusalpha]

@@danielaramburo7648 YM was speculating pretty wildly, which is just kind of his schtick. He didn't have a 2020 Python, functional or otherwise, and he didn't even have any internal pictures from other people that actually were having the malfunctions. Blaming the revolver's hand was simply his uninformed guess.

[@danielaramburo7648]

ostiariusalpha He does own multiple original pythons. The picture was send in of the new one. I believe he has purchased a new python. He is a revolver expert.

[@ostiariusalpha]

@@danielaramburo7648 And yet, he was still just guessing in the video he posted. Lots of us are revolver experts by the way.

[@BeadsbyNicole]

Nice to see Colt is still making crap…. Going on 30 years of pure overpriced garbage.

[@hawkeyeinthehouse2995]

Nice informative and interesting video. BUT those 2 pistols are SUCKING HIND TIT to my old COLT 3-5-7. I went by my USUAL gun shop and they had a NEW COLT 6" STAINLESS STEEL PYTHON and I thought I would CHECK IT OUT for a comparison with my OLD COLT 3-5-7 (It's been considered as a pre Python but looks like a Trooper). The new Python is a BEAUTIFUL pistol and the stainless steel looks great and is beneficial as far as rust resistant. The action is ALMOST as SMOOTH as my old Colt 3-5-7 the only difference between the two pistols was somewhat noticable to me that the ARC of the hammer on the NEW PYTHON was slightly shorter about 3mm-5mm but the REAL OVERLY NOTICEABLE DIFFERENCE was my old Colt single action was about 2lbs maybe 3lbs LIGHTER THAN THE NEW PYTHON and of course was VERY CRISP. The Ruger GP100 can use the SAME SPEED LOADER as the PYTHON. I have a 4"and a 6" 3-5-7 Colt, I only recently picked up the 4" and hadn't had time to shoot it but I have shot the 6" and it is LITERALLY A TACK DRIVER with CCI BLAZER BRASS 38 SPECIAL 125gr FMJ. AT 25' shooting at a red dot from an impromptu rest with 5 shots touching in the red dot the size of a PENNY. The 5 shot ONE HOLE looked like 3 shots not 5. I was STUNNED, I knew you can shoot 38 Special in a 357 but didn't realize that kind of ACCURACY. WHAT DO YOU THINK. 2 HANDED from the same distance I made 3 holes, 3 touching across the dot and the other 2 a half inch at 2 o'clock and 7 o'clock. I'm HAPPY WITH THAT. IT'S OBVIOUSLY A KEEPER. "FROM MY COLD DEAD HANDS" Charlton Heston RIP. Would I get rid of it NEVER.🤔😲😉😁👍❤️

[@UTAH_BLANE]

comparing a 6inch to a 4 inch lmassoff