Colt's Python with the 5-inch barrel is a double-action .357 Mag revolver in stainless steel, with a six-round cylinder that also runs .38 Special. It stretches 10.25 inches overall and weighs 42.7 ounces. Sighting is a blade up front and an adjustable unit at the rear, and wood grips fill the hand. Polished stainless construction shrugs off corrosion and cleans up with little effort after a day of shooting.

Five inches of barrel gives a longer sight radius than a carry snub, which is why this Python belongs on the range and in the collection more than under a shirt. Anyone who wants one revolver for paper, steel and relaxed .38 Special plinking gets adjustable sights to zero for each load, and Colt collectors get the Python in a mid-length barrel with the traditional double-action manual of arms.

Key features

• .357 Mag six-shot, .38 Special compatible
• 5-inch stainless barrel, 42.7 ounces
• Blade front sight with adjustable rear
• Wood grips on a polished stainless frame
• 10.25 inches overall

The Python ships to the licensed FFL dealer you pick at checkout, where the federal Form 4473 and background check are completed.