Update: Colt Python 2020 - Recall? Problems? Answers?

[@tomfile3131]

Bought a 6" Python about 3 months ago. LOVE IT !! Beautiful, and functions flawlessly.

[@markadams7597]

I've had a similar problem with Winchester white box and my S&W 40ve. I've simply moved on from Winchester ammo.... Delighted with your Python "short shucking" diagnosis (the tiny click failure @4:17). Great vid! Ty.

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you.

[@gerryk3114]

I’ve seen three videos were the cylinder did not turn ! Light primer strikes was another issue people have been reporting !! AND ONE PERSON/VIDEO HAD THE CYLINDER ADVANCE WITH NO HAMMER MOVEMENT AT ALL ?? AT $1500.00 IT SHOULD BE PERFECT IN EVERY WAY !!!

[@adamarens3520]

Gerry K at $1500 it better whistle Dixie for me!

[@MrDonohuea]

Couldn't agree more!! Colt is a joke, and has been for a long time.

[@CHEECHMUN]

@@MrDonohuea and that is sad. They may need a New CEO who knows the business!!!

[@rustytaylor7708]

@@MrDonohuea help me out here . So you don't like colt you think they are a joke and have been a long time. So you like to spend time watching videos about things you don't like and comment on them. I see that a lot but don't get it . I can't stand basketball for example so i would have to be forced to watch it much less comment on it. So maybe you can explain that to me . I have a guess but i rather here it from you or others like you.

[@MrDonohuea]

@@rustytaylor7708 Its called staying informed. After all Colt didn't do anything personal to me, I have no hatred of them. I just wouldn't buy one. I've drove Chevy all my life, however the one I have now will be my last. Their quality went to hell.

[@daspiper8941]

I'm still planning on buying a new Python, but I think I'll put it off towards the end of the year. I don't like the Crown problem at all. I won't accept a Python with that issue.

[@eddawg79]

That's why you inspect the gun before you fill out the paperwork. Make sure there's no visible defects before you buy.

[@kimisdaman]

I heard they have over 15,000 orders from SHOT Show.

[@petegrunert9230]

Das Piper I have a GP 100 Seven shot ,Absolutely amazing gun!

[@jimbrown3419]

Heck, an hour with Mother's Metal Polish and a little lapping the crown the problem is gone.

[@mrglock2313]

You can say to inspect it first, and I have the eye that can spot a freckle on a gnat's ass. But the lighting in my local gun shop needs much improvement. I picked my Colt python up yesterday, once I got home I immediately found a real issue with mine "which should have been caught" when you have a name like Colt and made in america you have a huge responsibility to quality control. You are only as good as your employees, that being said the inspection department needs to be called into the office and told to "Not" let garbage workmanship out the door. I have never had to send a gun back to the factory in my 50ty years.

[@richki.24]

for a $1400 gun, it should be flawless ...

[@trappedintimesurroundedbye5477]

exactly

[@jryer1]

It's known among old timers, that you must fully release the trigger, meaning your finger should separate from the trigger before pulling again, on the Colt Python. Been that way since day one.

[@Jay-od7uj]

Yep hammer doesn't know how to shoot revolvers

[@davidgiles9751]

Over all the years I've been buying firearms, I've only bough one new design. After ~500 rounds the tip of the firing pin broke. Sent it back and the manufacturer warranty covered it, but I learned my lesson - never buy a new design. Even old fashioned "trustworthy" revolvers can be subject to problems. Yes - the new Python is effectively a new design.

[@DavidBrown-it9ig]

@William Hutchinson Colt said they were able to delete 14 parts from the original Pythons

[@samwalker7821]

@@DavidBrown-it9ig Problem is that no parts are obtainable from Colt. There's plenty around for the old Python, however.

[@Jacdoc2002]

Why didn’t they make it in Royal Blue? The finish is one of the most attractive features of the gun. At $1500 I want a nicer gun. Things like a scratched up crown aren’t acceptable.

[@jaman878]

If Colt had made the 2020 Python would you have bought one?

[@jaman878]

Sorry. If Colt had made the 2020 Python in Royal Blue would you have bought one?

[@Jacdoc2002]

jaman87 possibly. But that depends on cost, condition and FFL.

[@Jacdoc2002]

jaman87 if the quality was there I would buy one without a doubt.

[@smithn.wesson495]

Colt has said more times than I can count with the fingers on my hands a blued version is coming. (Spoiler Alert - at the NRA Annual Meeting) People living in igloos in northern Alaska know this by now.

[@bertraminc9412]

It’s called American manufacturing. No testing and evaluation before release. “Let the buyers do our testing and evaluation. Then we don’t have to pay for it”.

[@danielaramburo7648]

No, it’s colt being cheap. I own many US made weapons, all work fine, even the old used ones I purchased.

[@asiannerdz4]

What testing? It’s a decades old design.

[@vincentj3093]

Sig does that, I got a P320 , in 45acp it had multiple problems, it went back to Sig 3 times , came back worse every time. I got rid of it and found a used but unfired Glock 21 , works every dam time . I was looking at the colt but heard about the problems, I’m sticking with my model 66-3 from 1986 , that’s 34 years old , not one failure ever.

[@bertraminc9412]

@@asiannerdz4 You're kidding right. You are the reason guns come out with issues. Every Porsche 911 gets tested.... it's a decade old design, isn't it. Do you think GM tests their cars or does Sir Goyle do all the testing for GM when his cheap car/truck is broken down on the side of the road. It's idiots like this that make up the American industry. Brilliant designs never make it past Sir Goyle management. They change every aspect of the design to cut costs and kill quality and function. It is the definition of American business. Stay away from American guns. You'll regret it.

[@bertraminc9412]

@@vincentj3093 Some of the colt commercial suffix-C guns were very accurate but the design is typical American design... crude and little to no thought to ergonomics and human use... by that I mean traditional quality German design dealt with use of the weapon in every aspect.... the best example I can give of that is the need to have a tool to take down a 1911.... most German guns of that day could be taken down with a lever... today, most of the take down designs are German. Just a button or lever and the guns slide apart. On a daily basis I'm always cursing American design in everything I see in my home and other items designed in the USA. No thought to use... only cheapest materials and cheapest manufacture. My SIG P226R arrived with a seized sear pin in the frame. When I called sig, the idiot there told me that I should take the gun to a gunsmith if I wanted it taken down further than the slide.... the fucking moron actually said that on the phone. He went on to say that if I sent it in there would be no evaluation just repair... by the same kind of idiot he was... no way. I called the seller and returned it the same day. This is American industry. It is driven by profit and quality is never mentioned.

[@johndabrowski5992]

Thanks Hammer Strike for the update! A comparison video between the King Cobra Target and new Python would definitely be informative. Like some of the other comments still intend on picking up a new Python later in the year.

[@theodorepollock4019]

Agreed! I would really like to see differences between the 4.25" Python and the King Cobra. From the specs sheet it looks like the King Cobra is a little bit lighter than the Python. I tend to prefer slimmer, lighter revolvers even for high round count target shooting. I can see getting both - Python because it is a piece of art and the King Cobra because I can put thousands of rounds through it and not feel bad if it shows some wear.

[@HammerStriker]

I do have a King Cobra but it is the shorter barrel, I plan to do a comparison with that. When I do, I will include any notes on differences with the Target that go beyond simply the longer barrel.

[@mrpaulgrimm6129]

You would think Colt had perfected revolvers by now!

[@hkadera]

Colt perfected revolvers decades ago, then they handed someone their beer...

[@Hibernicus1968]

They did. Problem is the skilled craftsmen who were employed at Colt when they ceased production over twenty years ago have all retired by now. This is a new generation of Colt employees who have a learning curve to deal with. The problems seem simple enough that they'll be worked out in due course. I'm not put out; all new products have bugs to be worked out. I plan on giving Colt time and picking one of these up in a year or so when the problems should have been corrected. If they haven't done it by then, THEN I'll worry.

[@Andrew-qm6bt]

Rusty Highlander they’re definitely rolling over in their graves. Especially on that QR code, cheap looking grips and that atrocity of a hammer.

[@patrickmartin8302]

Fired my new 6" today. No problems after 150 .38 and 50 .357 rounds. Will shoot some more really soon and will say something if I have any problems, but I'm very satisfied.

[@patrickmartin8302]

Just bought one. Haven't fired it yet, but no problems with the crown or finish. It has a great trigger pull, but you have to pull it all the way through and completely release the trigger for a reset - not a problem for me but will have to get use to it as it is a different feel than S&W revolvers I have and my old python. Still, so far it is a great double action pull (better than the old pythons) and has the typical good balance. In my opinion, the balance is better than my S&W L frames. Just the personal opinion of a deputy who was originally trained with revolvers in the early 80's and has carried both a python and 586 as duty weapons in years gone by.

[@alj.granda8252]

Thanks for the video. This is why I like waiting a couple of years before a new gun is released. Colt seems to have corrected everything now, 6/2022.

[@johnts1]

Indeed, sir. I just purchased mine. 12/22. Looks and shoots like a dream.

[@gregball7775]

If I'm paying $1500+ for a gun, it better be flawless when I get it.

[@matthewrobinson4323]

I had a similar problem with Remington ammunition in my Smith and Wesson 442. Apparently the primer cap wasn't fully seated in the casing, and my gun jammed.

[@CHEECHMUN]

I had the same problem with a German brand, Geco. They replaced it. Yeah, jammed the cylinder and it was hard to get out.

[@radiohobbyist13]

There you go, there's a large number of revolver lovers (of which I am one) who run around saying that "revolvers never jam". Not true, in 35 years of owning and shooting thousands of rounds of factory revolver ammo I've had ONE jam. It's rare but it CAN happen. And yes, it was cheap ammunition. Autopistols? I've had dozens of jams over the years.

[@GoldenWebb]

I still haven’t heard anything from colt yet about my python. Been with them for 2 weeks now

[@chrissourp6807]

Hey dude whats up ?!?! Still hoping to see a vid about how your issues were handled with Colt and if you feel they were addressed to your satisfaction. Once again, please keep us posted.

[@sam4yeshua214]

That really , really SUCKS , at a minimum they should call you and just be honest . Very poor customer service . For the money you should NOT be going thru this

[@ou812also5]

From: Heffron Firearms Company- The new Python is effectively an "evolution" of the original Python. The new Cobra, King Cobra and Python all share the same action design, although in varying sizes. This issue with the action likely has a pretty simple solution. People concerned about it's "originality" need to realize just how fragile the old one was. Also, the original action design was murder to manufacture. I have heard these called "Watchmaker's Revolvers" and after working on at least hundreds of these in my life, I believe that's a dang good description. It's an action design first assigned to the large New Service in 1898. It was used in the Army Special (then Official Police, Officers Model, the first Trooper, Python) in 1908, of course with everything scaled down in size. The smaller Colts such as the Police Positive, Cobra, Agent, Detective Special, Diamondback... all used the the exact same design of lockwork, but again smaller in size. Colt's double action revolver lockup is heavily dependent on the lockwork. An update on the design was a fine idea! The new design is easier to fit, it offers stronger parts in key areas and it's not ALL new. The tight moment-of-firing lockup, also called Colt's Bank Vault Lockup is still present, but with a stronger hand and ratchet. The V leaf mainspring is still present. They kept the best of the old and added some new. If the old, fragile and overly complicated action was used in the Python today you'd likely be looking at around $2300, based on firearm inflation. Do you want to pay $800 more just because it's more complicated?You get nothing else for your money; just a more complicated maze of parts. Maybe Smith & Wesson should add a bunch more parts to their revolver actions and charge more. People wax poetically about the hand fitting of the original Python..... The lowly Detective Special required the same amount of hand fitting. The Python differed in that the action was also honed for smoothness. The complexity of the original design made it impossible to remain competitive. Every part had to be hand fit or they wouldn't even function. The original design was fragile. Sounds like an update may be in order? They did it. I have performed many action jobs on the new Cobras and the new King Cobras. Good design. I have purchased a new Python. Mine is fine in every respect. I have 2 buddies who bought them as well. Both operate flawlessly. One of them however had a crappy crown. I re-crowned it for him. We have performed accuracy tests in a Ransom Rest clear out to 100 yds. The new Pythons shoot just as good as the old ones; which means they are very, very difficult to surpass in the accuracy department. Our single action trigger pulls vary from 3.0-3.5 pounds. Our double action trigger pulls vary from 7.75-8.25 pounds. They are very smooth. None of us have encountered the action problem. The crown issue? Not that this is an excuse, but I imagine a bunch of barrels were batch manufactured and that finishing touch was not applied. I have seen some Smith & Wesson crowns the last couple of years that looked like ass. I see their Performance Center is now offering a service to give you a match grade crown. Basically, to get a crown like they used to come with, but you have to pay extra now! Give Colt a chance on this. They will make it right. They say a new Anaconda is on the way and I wouldn't be shocked to see a Diamondback someday. They will make it right. If we want Colt to succeed blowing up social media again and again and again is NOT the answer (there is one guy out there.....His inexperience shows and he needs to be quiet for a while and just get his gun fixed). Personally, I am very excited by the prospect of buying new Colt revolvers again!

[@dbelex]

WTF, you paid by Colt????? I'll wait to see what happens down the road. And keep my old ones, no problems with those after thousands of rounds.

[@lancedunaway3802]

Thank you. Excellent comments.

[@ou812also5]

@@dbelexNope. Just stating the facts. I will not apologize if my stated facts fly in the face of someone's Colt bashing. 100 stormy days out of 3000 does not mean Armageddon,

[@anthonygalliart1789]

Sounds good... Just on a personal note I refuse to pay $1,500. For a revolver just because it says Colt on it. I would purchase 2 or 3 good guns that work for that much cash. Just my way of looking at the world. Some folks just love certain names and looks and are willing to pay any amount to get it. Wish I could afford to be that way but reliability & cost has to be my focus until I hit the lottery.

[@davek5027]

I’ll stick with my pre-lock Smith Model 66’s and 686’s. I’d stake my life on them👌🏻👍🏻

[@duster0066]

I'm an old revolver guy who only came into the modern world 10 years ago. It is a myth revolvers don't fail. And ammo is usually the problem with proud primers. I'm fairly sure I've had short stroke failures in most I've shot a lot. I still like revolvers, but now only for fun or hunting.

[@johndickinson8848]

If Colt allows a $1500.00 gun to go out of the factory with a marred crown, then what else have they overlooked ? Either they do not inspect the crown or just don’t care. It is inexcusable. I wanted to get one but damned if I am going to reward them for shoddy work.

[@ostiariusalpha]

Well, they care now. Apparently crown examination has become a distinctly emphasized point of the QC inspection, thanks to all of these embarrassing examples of marred crowns being delivered.

[@duster0066]

@@ostiariusalpha And maybe a new crown cutter? The dude that cuts them is the root of this. He/she knows to. lol

[@ostiariusalpha]

@@duster0066 It's probably done by a machine, but whoever is supposed to monitor the machine needs to pull their thumb out of their ass.

[@wannafish1]

Thank you for being respectful of Hickok unlike the Yankee Marshal!

[@petegrunert9230]

wannafish1 The Yankee Marshall is a jerk!

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you. Hickok is a good guy and knows what he is doing, making it easy to show him respect. We try to never disrespect others, in the cases where something needs to be called out it is easy to simply not mention names and instead just discuss the issue or misconception.

[@jackdundon2261]

Remember hickock and MOST reviewers have 'friends' and sponcers. When a person takes money, or is given free products. You have to take that into consideration when they review.

[@markjohnson7357]

wannafish1 he just bashes a better channel to get attention to boost his channel. i cant stand people like that. he is the brian stelter of gun news

[@JBJHonez]

@@jackdundon2261 yup, you’re 100% correct about that. To many biased fanboys out there. I have no spooners and finally got to 1k subs. Everything in my videos is paid for by me or donated and if donated, I say a thank you to them in the video if they want me to. Most big name KZbinrs like some mentioned in these comments are given ammo, loaned guns, other things, or even given guns for free just to review and mention their name.

[@chadblechinger5746]

The price alone let's you know that most official internet opinions on the topic have never had one. This gun is great and I can agree on the hang up, ammo hang, and trigger lock do to using it like an auto. The one true problem this gun does have even when you run it right is that the closer round to the gun hangs on when you push the ejector. Other than that this gun is a dream. It is super accurate and the trigger is legendary.

[@gutfinski]

The idea of having to return a new piece to the factory for “repair” is mind boggling.

[@Ironeyes4440]

I'm in full agreement, since I had to return mine.

[@heliace]

Ya know, I think I will stick with my 686 and GP100...I am very happy to rely on either of the 2.

[@johnbailey9682]

We had the problem but the first time was because the maker did not crimp the load . The second time was after we reloaded a 38 round and the primer did not seat all the way. We never had any issues with the gun it self .

[@alanderson9711]

The Ruger Match Champion that I compared the Colt to (for me) was an easy winner @1/2 the price, much less weight (for an old guy), one less shot and a better finish. The Ruger line is very impressive for their pricing/QC

[@shwesq]

I assume you mean the SP101 Match Champion. It's 12 ounces lighter and has one less shot. The GP100 is four ounces lighter than the Python and is a six shooter like the Colt. I am a big fan of Ruger's 4.2" .357 SP101s. They're beautiful guns , with duty sized power in a lithe carry sized package.

[@williamryan7403]

The finish on the SP101 is horrendous. Ive seen more than one new on the shelf that looks like someone used a wire brush to finish the stainless. Absolutely horrible.

[@TakeDeadAim]

I've already figured out the issue Colt has with their new revolvers. As a professional metallurgist I analyzed the inner lock works against those of my 1966 Python. Without boring everyone with the spec's, the bottom line is that the steel inside the lock is just about 20% less hard and tense than that of the vintage guns. My guess is that they're sourcing it from out of country...resembles Chinese foundry steel recipes. Also, why people are comparing the new to old baffles me. I own two Dodge Challengers. A 1970 and a 2018. Yes...they DO resemble each other. Many of the exterior lines are shared however they are wholly different beasts under the hood. No one should be buying a new one to toss in a safe in the hope that it will become valuable...it's not. IF you're wanting to invest in a pistol which will A-ppreciate then you need to be looking at the originals. Same goes for the S&W lineup. A new 19 is NOT going to bring the money an old 19 will now or in the future.

[@ou812also5]

When I had similar parts compared such as hammers, triggers, hands I received readings that revealed the NEW parts being harder (a friend of mine works at John Deere and does this for me often). There are other parts within the old guns that were super hard like the rebound lever (which the new one doesn't even have one of those....thank God!), the old-style bolt stop (super hard because it was literally spring-steel and they have a new style now.....thank God!). I agree with what you're saying about collectability. Just like 5-Screw Smiths vs 3-Screw Smiths. Old Colt 1911's vs 1911A1 vs Series 70. Colt SAA generations 1,2 and 3. It happens.

[@4570duplex]

Please - bore us (or at least me) with the specs. Please tell us the differences in new vs. old on some of the important details. Which alloy (or alloys, if they are not all the same) are used on which internal parts? Are these parts through hardened or surface hardened, and where does their hardness (or hardnesses, if they differ by part) fall on the Rockwell "C" scale?. What manner of analysis or testing (hopefully non-destructive) did you utilize to arrive at your conclusions? And please, don't worry about "talking over my head" or anything, as a retired mechanical engineer with an extensive background in metallurgy, we should be able to speak the same language (although I have never heard the term "tense" to describe any physical properties of steels, but what the hell - I'm always eager to learn new things).

[@bigjohnson9561]

I'm holding off till the end of the year to purchase one. Your video was informative and I'll be looking closely when I purchase my Python.

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you. Hopefully at that point all the little issues will be taken care of.

[@shwesq]

The grips appear to be Altamont "Super Walnut". When I asked one of Altamont's customer service people what "Super Walnut" was he said it was laminated Birch with a Walnut stain. S&W, Kimber and Ruger use the same stuff on some of their models. I wouldn't have a problem with it. The grips are beautiful and Laminated Birch is really tough. I have seen AK stock sets with years of hard use refinish to look brand new.

[@Norman68623]

Some cases which are out of spec also give weird transport results with my vintage Python. When the base or rim of the case is too uneven / thick, it gives a lot of friction to the back plate. However, this is an issue of messy cases and the tight tolerances of the Python. Only a few of some 1000 cases from S&B did this in my experience. It did not happen to me with Magtech so far (others i did not have). However, this particular occurence has nothing to do with any problem of the new or vintage Python. It might help to check the cases closely if they rub on the backplate of the gun. For missing primer strikes i have no idea, this is another issue.

[@kilgoreclayton]

Most attractive looking revolver ever. By the time i can afford one hopefully all the kinks are worked out

[@pebo8306]

Never seen a Korth.Have you???? (or a MR-71)

[@pebo8306]

@Harald B Stimmt natürlich!

[@jbloun911]

wait a few months, they recalled over 100 from dealerships.

[@nomanmcshmoo8640]

Thank you for the good video. Your approach was calm and straightforward. I am looking forward to picking up that exact model later this year. I kinda hope Colt comes out with a frosted model at some point as the bling version isn't my style. Regardless, gorgeous piece you have there!

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you.

[@Ironeyes4440]

After a long wait, I just purchased a new 4.25" Python. I took it to the range, expecting to have a great time shooting. My first set of six rounds hit left of the target. I had to move the rear sight all the way to the right until it finally hit center. Then I noticed the windage screw was so loose, it nearly fell out. Later, when I cleaned it, I noticed the barrel had so much rust, the metal was scarred. I called Colt and they said return it, which I did. In all my years, I've never had a new gun be in such bad shape. I'm waiting to hear what Colt has to say about it and what they are going to do, to fix it. I subscribed to your channel, so I'll get back to you.

[@HammerStriker]

Thanks for subscribing. I will be interested in hearing how this plays out.

[@dillonlnations]

Stainless steel rusting huh. Boy that's sure strange.

[@stever8776]

Thanks for the info👍 Hope Colt addresses these problems. I really want the New Pythons to work and have good quality control! I would buy one once the prices come down to suggested retail and the questions about function have been resolved. It's hard to tell if these issues are wide spread. Cheers

[@michaelbellar3022]

Hammer Striker you have a great channel. People who are new to firearms and people who are not can learn a lot from you. I hope you get a lot more subscribers

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you.

[@MDpolo]

I reached out to the gentleman that you mentioned and asked him if it was possible that and then all function he experienced was because he was short stroking the trigger. His response was “watch the whole video, a little knowledge can go along way.” I did watch the whole video by the way. I still believe that he may have been short stroking the trigger. But of course you can’t tell him that he was doing anything wrong.

[@doug-egojira3213]

The problems in the Hickock45 and GoldenWeb videos is not possible with “short stroking” the double action trigger. In these videos, the paul (or hand) that engages the ratchet for turning the cylinder is failing to engage. This allows the trigger/hammer assembly to go through a full double action stroke without rotation of the cylinder. I have a Colt Cobra that is based on the same “linear leaf spring” design. It is actually prone to short stroking due to not having a separate trigger return spring like a Smith & Wesson. If short stroked, the trigger and hammer lock up and will not go through the full cycle. Whatever the problem with these 2 Pythons, it was not short stroking. Hickock45, in particular, appears to have a lot of revolver experience and I think he would be less prone to this than most others anyway. Hopefully, this problem is rare as Hammer/Striker noted.

[@chetdavis4286]

I had problems with several different kinds of Winchester ammo through the years.

[@TheFeralBachelor]

I believe the detraction about the grips is that it's a laminate walnut vs a solid single piece of walnut. I don't care for laminated wood regardless of the wood used. But as you say, there are plenty of after-market grips available. I will get a 2020 Python eventually but am holding my hopes up for a blued model.

[@shooterqqqq]

Solid walnut.

[@balinwire1656]

The Python is tuned as a target pistol. This is achieved with as light a hammer strike as possible. I have a .38 python since new and the strike is even lighter. With long barrel and light loads it will achieve unparalleled accuracy as the 1955 was designed for police load.

[@bryanswilik651]

A .38 Python ? The Python shoots .357/.38 spl. . Maybe you have a Diamond Back ? They came in .38 and .22 , I had a Colt Diamond Back in .38 special. Wish I never sold it !

[@jethrobodine9299]

I've had out of spec white box in most common calibers

[@jerryw6699]

Unions certainly protect the workers, especially the really lousy workers.

[@AmericanHandgunner44]

They also got us away from the average American working 12 hour days seven days a week with terrible working conditions and still barely making enough to survive.

[@jerryw6699]

@@AmericanHandgunner44 There was a time when the business owners certainly abused their employees, no doubt. But the circle is filling in and the unions are destroying the ability of a good worker by protecting the lousy ones. It's absolutely ridiculous what a union worker has to do to earn his pay. The answer is nearly nothing if he chooses to do nothing. Fortunately most union workers are ethical people and just take the pay and do their work. Some are not so virtuous. Right to work states are in much better financial stability than the states with strong unions.

[@connormarek1028]

great video, im glad you havent had any problems with your python. i kinda think that there are more pythons functioning correctly than it seems. i really want one of these and this makes me feel better about the situation. thanks for the info.

[@troyfritz5857]

Mine shoots fine too.thank you Colt.

[@connormarek1028]

@@troyfritz5857 great to hear. if i could find a new python at a decent price, it would be pretty hard to walk away from. i hope we see more goid reports like these. how many rounds do you have through your python?

[@troyfritz5857]

@@connormarek1028 200

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you. If an issue does crop up we will definitely share. And if I decide to have them address the crown then i will share that as well.

[@colt2206]

Some are perfect and others really bad. Really strange.

[@FoulPet]

I've yet to see a perfect gun but, Glockers would argue with me.

[@looloo6322]

I have a 27-2 5" and a Blued Colt Python 6", I tend to shoot the 27-2 more, I want the new Stainless Python in 6", but I will wait till all the bugs are worked out.

[@shooterqqqq]

Thank you for a fair and concise video.

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you.

From Field & Stream, Feb 12, 2020 : Justin Baldini, Colt’s product director, says there has been no recall on the Python. The gun used in Hickok45’s review has been returned to Colt, and no one is denying that it malfunctioned. “The first thing we looked for was loose screws in the side plate,” Baldini says. “If the side plate on the new gun gets pushed outward a bit, that can cause the malfunction. But at this moment, we’re still not 100 percent on it. Hickok’s gun and one other are the only two that have come back for any functional issue.” Baldini added that the new Python is designed to be shot. During development, it tested with 12,000 full-magnum .357 loads, without any stretching or twisting of the frame. “We went into it with the intention of building a beefier gun,” he says. “But if someone buys a Python and has trouble with it, let us know. We have a great service center, and we’ll get it squared away. It’s still a mechanical device, built by people.” Truth is, when you’re reviewing equipment-and I’ve reviewed a lot of equipment-even the best of it can malfunction. As the old saying goes, $#@! happens. When it happens amidst a product launch that’s as high-profile as the new Python, and on a platform large as Hickok45’s … well, that’s enough to get gun people gossiping. Still, despite hiccups, there’ve been 2,300 new Pythons built and shipped so far, and they’re now back-ordered to the tune of 14,000 guns, which is about a year’s worth of guns, according to Baldini. That’s not a bad start. So knowing all this, what would I do, if I wanted a Python? I’d recognize that the new one is not only less expensive than the old one, but probably sturdier, too. I’d get my name on the waiting list, and when I got one, I’d shoot the hell out of it. If it messed up, I’d send it back for repair. That’s what I’d do for any gun not working just right. Then, when I wasn’t shooting it, I’d keep it clean and locked up in the safe. And every now and then, I’d pull it out, look at it, and think, “By God, I’ve finally gotten myself a Colt Python.”

[@Chris-yy5pj]

Everybody is saying go with Smith, go with Ruger, and I'm over here with Dan Wesson and unmatched performance

[@jt2475]

dat boi Dan Wesson revolvers are okay at best, their 1911s now that’s another story

[@CHEECHMUN]

Good report: When people get a new gun from their FFL, they are suppose to look it over to see if it is in acceptable condition. The person that you said that had the barrel crown damage should not have accepted it. I take my time and look at every gun I purchase. Seems like that damage would be hard to miss.

[@isrstrategies]

CHEECHMUN or some dumb ass gu store employee was finger banging the gun and dropped it, I never buy a gun out of the showcase I always special order and they call me and I open the box in the gun stores presence

[@CHEECHMUN]

@@isrstrategies Yes, same with me. I put on my reading glasses on and inspect it like when you apply for a loan or mortgage. I look at all it's holes!!!

[@johnerickson3336]

Me too but your not going to find anything until you get home. Mark my words.

[@doranmaxwell1755]

My 1970 Python has 'ammo issues' I handload... I use cast lead bullets for various reasons. Not EVERY round that will chamber in looser .357 guns will chamber completely in the Python... What I do when I make ammo for the old girl is I run it through a LEE factory crimp die after the load is seated and crimped... what this does is to 'size' the loaded round to SAMI specs. You can actually use this die to factory size loaded factory rounds... I have noticed that with some factory rounds the die reduces Dia. at the seating depth with a noticiable 'feel' while other it just skims over. To check this.... I used electronic calipers (cheap) to check neck size of the ammo before and after. I also used pin guages to check the Python chambers and cyl... yes... the old Python is tight. it is near the lower end or tighter tolerance end of the SAMI specs... which makes for accuracy but makes it less tolerant of sloppy loads. If you don't want to do all that... then simply take your box of ammo and drop in loads... if they drop right in then you will have no problem. As the gun gets dirty from firing this is even more apparent... The other revolver I have that does this is a Dan Wesson 44 mag... It also wants 'perfect' ammo.... oddly.. in the 70's and 80's no one noticed or... complained about this... perhaps the ammo then was more precise? in any case the Python and the DW are my two most accurate revolvers.... your mileage may vary....

[@TheRotorhound]

I would have been curious to see how those wwb .38 that wouldn't fit the cylinder would fit in a case gauge. Perhaps the colt cylinders are a little tight. You assume it's ammo but it might be the gun. I have an original Python, S&W and Ruger revolver and never had any problems with wwb seating in a cylinder. Bad ammo vs tight cylinder. Only a case gauge would tell you if the ammo was out of spec. Or perhaps it's the Colt. Nice review though.

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you. I didn't retain the ammo, however all other ammo I have used in this so far (various brands) worked perfectly - including the other 97 rounds from that box. There was also no problem ejecting any spent brass, no sticking.

[@TheRotorhound]

Hammer Striker That’s a very good point.

[@bluescatreimer]

I got to look one over the other day. I was surprisingly impressed, no flaws, smooth action and very nice finish. Grips feel better in my hand than the old ones, not as thick. I would rather pay $1499 for the new one than the inflated prices being asked for the old ones. Also there are 14 less parts in the new one. Once they get on the stupid CA roster and my dealer gets another 6" I will definitely buy one.

[@leoross9817]

Another problem never mentioned is this gun is no longer fitted by hand. No good reason for this gun to cost this much.

[@DavidBrown-it9ig]

I agree. It should be in the same price point as S&W. They are preying on those who have wanted a Python for a long time and could never afford 3k + for them. Sad really

[@kimisdaman]

So, you have to properly operate the gun, for the gun to operate properly? I'm not aware of any gun that will run if the trigger isn't allowed to reset between shots?

[@HammerStriker]

The point was that I was demonstrating a way the FCG could be made to fail either by improper use or one of the pawls failing - to duplicate some of what is being seen. But that, when actually using it, it never malfunctioned.

[@alegroman4294]

There’s also the issue with loose rear sight. People have been replacing the rear sight with Wilson combat sight. For a gun that costs $1500 I would expect a better quality control from Colt.

[@rmcgraw7943]

I’m hearing about issues with the rear sight, but I have never fired me. Evidently, they switched brands in between the old ones and the new ones, from Elliason to Kensight, and the later doesnt, supposedly, maintain a previous sighting unless you locktight it. Let me know if you see any issues with the rear sight losing it’s previous sighted zero. I’ve got both old and new, and the newer one is not so good in single action, but in double action, they both are great, with the potential exception mentioned above.

[@MM4X453]

I have had that happen with Blazer ammo in my Ruger SP101. looked like it was all the way in but locked up the cylinder.

[@FalconLair09]

if you don't fully reset the trigger (stop at the 1st click) can you still pull back and lock the hammer back? In Hickok's video it appeared that he was pulling back on the hammer and it would lock back in SA - you were doing everything in DA, so that's a bit different and if the hammer won't lock back in SA after only going 1 click it's not the same problem that Hickok was having - it'd be a good test to see if hammer locks back even if you don't fully reset

[@HammerStriker]

Yes you can, however if you pull the trigger all the way back while following it back then it will not lock. However the cylinder does not rotate when you do that as you did not permit all of the internal components to reset. A note for clarity - this gun has not malfunctioned once while operating it properly - what you saw was me deliberately short-shucking the trigger and not allowing it to reset.

[@woodybatter3896]

If the trigger is dragging back to reset, that too is a malfunction. And unless the ammunition is damaged it should fit. A lot of the cheap bulk ammo will reload used brass which gives the opportunity for bad brass.

[@trickiwoo3573]

I think I'm still getting one but not off the internet. I'm inspecting that crown and action before I buy. And yes I can wait.

[@OG-dn4fo]

Tricki Woo lier you can’t wait, stop lying to your self lol

[@trickiwoo3573]

@@OG-dn4fo You may have a point. However, I do know that I don't want to be stuck with a lemon. $500 sure, but $1500, this bitch better be perfect.

[@sergeant_t2020]

I took my new Python 2020 right out of the case to the range and fired 150 rounds thru it. On the 8th round of 357 Fiocchi, I had a lite hammer strike in double action. I stopped, waited, and shot the 1 round in single action. After that, no issues. I don't think the new Python's like Fiocchi ammo. I had no issues firing the Winchester (WB) or Brass in 357 and 38 special. To be fair, I've had no problems shooting Fiocchi ammo thru my New Cobra or the New King Cobra. See you all at the NRA 2020 convention!

[@gaspeople]

Thanks for not trashing Hickok45 as some idiot who doesn't know how to fire a revolver, I love your channel.

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you. We try to be respectful of other channels, and I know that Hickok45 knows what he is doing.

[@mike34744]

I love mine. Flawless and the best shooting revolver I have

[@areyoulying4937]

Purchased mine 1 week ago, and the cylinder started locking up. It wasn’t an ammo problem, though I wish it was. But! Called Colt and they are going to check it out. The customer service people were great in getting the problem fixed as soon as they can. Otherwise I do like it!

[@zachmcclintock2041]

Thanks for being the voice of reason. This gun is gorgeous and wether or not there were issues, it is fixed now. Many people just hating for reasons I couldn’t tell you it seems

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you. We strive to be reasonable and not join they hype on things.

[@machone7580]

I think there's plenty of 2020 Pythons having no problems. There's a few that had problems, and that is getting a lot of press. There's a lot of people who want this new gun to fail, thus protecting the obscene prices on the old ones. I think old ones are old ones and new ones are new ones. These new guns are not going to effect prices on old ones. I would never spend what the old ones bring, so I'll get a new one. Thanks for the video!

[@connormarek1028]

this is what i think. while it is sorta funny that the first few youtube reviews all had problems, it still doesnt seem like most pythons have problems. i think and hope that more good reviews will continue to surface and i hope that those who have had problems will get their guns fixed soon.

[@smithn.wesson495]

Colt has sold over 4,000+ New Pythons. Do we see over 4,000 different owners with issues? No, not even close. The handful of actual problems has been extremely over exaggerated. 95% of the people complaining online have never even seen a New Python, little alone own one .

[@richardjohnson4238]

I had a similar problem with some of my 357 reloads. They'd go about halfway into the charge holes on the Python and stop. I didn't want to try to force them, so I popped them out (I think it was three rounds out of a 50 box) and set them aside. Later they dropped right into and fired normally through a 581 S&W I had with me that day. Thanks for the follow up. Good review.

[@richardjohnson4238]

I think the Colt's chambers are just tighter than on my Smith and Wesson's. My reloads all chamber fine on them. This is the first 357 Colt I've owned in quite some time. @Logan Waltz

[@chuckwolf3221]

I seen a video that the seem at that screw above the trigger was mismatched and that was after colt sent it back from being repaired.

[@em23]

Thank you for this. there was another yt channel that was just bashing hikok and blaming HIM for the malfunction. you answered all the questions logically.

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you. Hickok has a lot of revolver experience and knows what he is doing. It is unlikely his is short-shucking and more likely that one of the pawls that are involved in the 4 clicks didn't engage.

[@drmitofit2673]

Darn. I was hoping the new Python would have a more reliable action than a Crosman replica.

[@connormarek1028]

i think there are more pythons than you think that are functioning right.

[@garthvader8868]

Aw man, don't be discouraged. If there is a problem Colt will have it ironed out in 3 to 6 months. This version will ultimately be better than the original Python.

[@garthvader8868]

Aw man, don't be discouraged. If there is a problem Colt will have it ironed out in 3 to 6 months. This version will ultimately be better than the original Python.

[@plaid13]

@@garthvader8868 For the price they charge they should all be 100% flawless right out of the box. If this was a $400-500 gun these sort of problems wouldnt be a huge issue. You just send it back get it fixed and good enough. But for $1500 there is no excuse for this. That is the big issue. Its a premium gun with a premium price and discount revolver issues. When there are so many very good very reliable revolvers out now for a third of the price this just shouldnt happen. For $1500 this thing should be the best of the best and as good as it gets. To make it even worse they named it after a very good gun that was well known for being flawless.

[@adventuresoftigtourettesin5885]

SEND IT BACK !

[@scottwins2]

Then they lose the value of the low Serial number

[@adventuresoftigtourettesin5885]

Scott M I don’t think there is any value in that

[@tubeonline629]

@@scottwins2 Just because you send it back doesn't mean they are going to replace it, they will repair whatever the problem is and return it back to you. Ruger had a safety recall on their old single actions and if you send one in for the recall they would replace the faulty parts and send it back to you with the parts they had replaced in a sack and they stamped a small letter on the frame to show the update had been made.

[@fulcifan6946]

Does the ejector rod get stuck in the ejector rod port? My new cobra had that problem because the texture on the tip was so aggressive, it would dig into the port and get stuck. I sanded it down and it works fine now, but still frustrating.

[@HammerStriker]

I have not had that problem with any of the new Snake guns.

[@1911jeff]

Fantastic review! Thanks.

[@HammerStriker]

Thank you.

[@brianmoore1164]

I would like to see a serious accuracy review. My old 1964 Python will stack amazing groups. Somebody needs to break out a ransom rest or at least some sandbags.

[@PatRMG]

This revolver still doesn't seem to be worth my hard earned dollars yet. I can buy a Smith 686 and a Ruger GP100 off the used market for the same $$$ and live life happily.

[@PatRMG]

@William Hutchinson I've got a 686 and GP100. I'm just not sold on the Colt yet.

[@a.s.8978]

Then don't buy one..................

[@Iceaxehikes]

My Ruger Redhawk, Blackhawk, LCR in .357 all go boom everytime. At a fraction of the cost of this new Python.. And the crowns are perfect. There is no excuse for a revolver; at twice the price of a similar revolver, to have the crown issue. None.

[@tkh3760]

1982 Ruger 357 security six. Over 10,000 documented rounds with no issues contributed to the gun. Still shooting the weapon.

[@indy908]

Colt is one of the few companies who can release a revolver, at double the cost of its competition. Have rumors of QC and fuction issues on the first batch of guns and still not be able to produce them fast enough. They’re out of stock everywhere. I was told I would have to wait a month for one to come to the local dealer. The Colt Python is a true American legend.

[@jagervw]

Thanks. Mauser reintroduced the Luger P08 in the seventies - they made modifications since 1945 including some interesting target versions. Same circumstance here now, with Colt. They are different iterations, but still made by original manufacturer so in my book no harm no foul. Mauser had no QC issues, however.

[@krisboynes4915]

The hand and link are cast so a couple good short strokes on trigger and the ends of the link and the hook/end of the hand is wore

[@RichKosack]

At very least shouldn’t it be marketed at Python II?

[@porkfatrulz9337]

I’ve noticed you use snap caps fairly often. On revolvers, I use the plastic disk that the factory puts behind the cylinder for packing & shipping. It’s a freebie. 🙏

[@HammerStriker]

How well does the disk hold up. Most of the snapcaps I use have spring loaded "primers" to cushion the impact, I am curious how well the disk takes that beating.

[@porkfatrulz9337]

Hammer Striker I haven’t had any problems with it, but I don’t dry fire revolvers often, just maintenance related.

[@VinnyS9143101982]

Our retired police instructor said they had problems, another instructor involved in the conversation said there was no forcing corner in some of them. Ken Hackathorn said the new ones are better than the original. Several guys yelled wrong when I said that in the conversation.

[@thomabb]

One of the videos I watched showed the hammer cycling with the trigger (double action) and the cylinder not moving, then several attempts at single action with the cylinder not moving. Then without explanation the gun started working again.

[@HammerStriker]

If one of the internal pawls was sticking or out of spec, that could happen. If that is the case it will most likely either free up and work perfectly after that or hang up for good.

[@danieldeleon8001]

I really want a new Python but I don't know if I can trust them yet. For the price I can get a new Smith and Wesson 686+ and send it to the performance center for a trigger polish and sight swap.

[@stanlysteemer4872]

Clears up for me thanks. This is overpriced at 1500 dollars and a lot better gun can be had for a lot less.

[@markrouch5332]

The python was always expensive. The price for a new python in 1994 was over $1000 it was also the year they were discontinued.

[@luvfreedom1470]

@@markrouch5332 They were discontinued in 1999. Custom shop made some until 2005.

[@anthonygalliart1789]

You got that right. Pretty sad when a Rock Island $200. 38 Special hunk of junk is more reliable than a Colt Python!

[@gitgeezer]

I'll wait until I no longer hear complaints or hear about issues.

[@mauriceclemens3286]

I would like to know what the difference is between the original Pythons and this re-issue. I heard there’s fewer parts in the new gun. I had an origional1970’s 4”Python and it worked perfectly.

[@nonyabiz9487]

Pythons have always been plagued with timing issues since there very beginning. With modern technology and production i was hoping they fixed that issue. It looks like Colt has been very true to the original Python design and therefore you might get a lemmon Python! My advice is get a King Cobra! Ive had zero problems from any of my Cobras and King Cobras!

[@gusbiv8282]

I agree, I got the King Cobra Target 4.2" adj. sight and never had a problem with it in almost 400 rounds so far. I was drooling over the new Python and hoping it wouldn't disappoint, like everyone else, but I'm still toying with the idea of cancelling my pre-order(1st one turned down because abortion of a crown, was unfinished and galled to beat hell), now that Colt has yanked so many back and slowed their shipping to try and get a handle on the issues, been waiting a month for it's replacement to come in.

[@rmcgraw7943]

You just need to add a trigger stop to fix this. It’s a known issue, but is usually only an issue with semi shoooters.

[@tuberaider]

Used S&W Model 28 Highway Patrolman can still be found for abt $600. Built to last.

[@Carlovfx]

It's April, if i get one of these (if i will survive quarantine) will be fully working or there are still defective units?

[@HammerStriker]

Most likely it will be fine as these assorted issues really only affected the very early batches. As these sold so hot, it is very unlikely for you to stumble across one of the early ones at an online gun store or local gun store. There may be a bit of risk if you buy one from an unscrupulous person on a gun trade/auction site.

[@colt2206]

I have seen 2 and at least crown and finish was flawless. I don’t know what to believe at this point.

[@jimbrown3419]

I know you shouldn't have to, buy I could have one on those scuffed up crowns polished up with some Mother's Metal Polish in about two hours

[@MrRgreer]

Colt says Dry Fire Safe, show the round issue. No such issues on my 5000 series

[@chrisstookey9871]

There seems to be a puzzling push to be excessively critical of Colt. Of course, there is also a cultural trend (with social media) for everyone to look for things to bitch about. I'm going to buy a new Python and I'm confident that it'll be what it should be.

[@killerbs317]

only issue ive had is the medalian falling off, its like they glued it in with hot glue

[@historicus146]

It seems that those who have been primarily shooting semi autos are looking for that short trigger reset which doesn't exist with the python. I think there are people who own the original Pythons, and are spreading hate on these new models.

[@smithn.wesson495]

Bingo! You are exactly right.

[@iCANT_BELIEVE_YOU_SAID_THAT]

Colt is probably looking at your video saying, "Ah-ha! We found the problem." I'm a little off topic but, what are your thoughts on the Ruger Redhawk .45 ACP MODEL NUMBER: 5050?

[@iCANT_BELIEVE_YOU_SAID_THAT]

@Jerrol Hale Thanks man.

[@HammerStriker]

I have a Super Redhawk Alaskan in both .44 magnum and .454 casull - both are excellent revolvers. The Redhawk is just as nice, the "Supers" are just beefier for the nastier rounds.

[@iCANT_BELIEVE_YOU_SAID_THAT]

@@HammerStriker Good to know. Thanks.

[@iCANT_BELIEVE_YOU_SAID_THAT]

@Liberty Forever Thanks for the info.

[@stopthephilosophicalzombie9017]

The trigger appears to have some lines on the side close to the top where it meets the frame. Is that lube or marks from rubbing on the frame?

[@DATo_DATonian]

I've got a REAL one. Looks just like the one in the video (6" S.S.). Paid $500 (used) about 20 years ago.

[@hobbz4921]

nice

[@wesmartin9392]

I cant help thinking that the whole problem relates to the fact that the gun is shooting the wrong ammo ... Its a .357 not a .38 ... The popular belief is that because the projectiles are exactly the same its ok to do this but I dont think it is because the .38 round does not go right into the loading chamber and after several rounds a " gunpowder ring " forms in the loading chamber which is not only hard to clean out [ even using Hoopes excellent products ] but can actually prevent a .357 from loading and can cause cylinder rotating issues . People use the .38 round because its cheaper , it certainly is when using factory ammo but the home reloader will not see any cost difference with the small increase of gunpowder in the .357 case . Its a .357 so use .357 ammo .. Wes Martin

[@GunnerSouthPAS]

I'm not sure I'd want any gun I could break by pulling the trigger 'wrong'.