As some of you probably know, I picked up a new 3 inch Python earlier this month.  This is technically my fifth Python.  The other four got sold or traded off over the years, long before the massive increase in price of the older ones.  I never could get used to the stacking double action pull versus my beloved Smiths....  Anyway, I stumbled into a good situation on this one so I jumped on it.  The double action trigger pull is a buttery smooth 9.8lbs with zero stacking.  Single action has settled into about 4.8lbs after a LOT of dryfire with snap caps.



It's only been to the range so far twice and has about 100 rounds through it.



I had the rear sight fall apart as I was unaware of the set cap screw.  Now that's all adjusted and I added some purple lock tite to the cap screw so fingers crossed on that.  Now, down to the comparison.  I just so happen to have a 3.25" Smith 66-5 in my collection as well.  Overall size of both revolvers is very close.  Feel is more different than I thought.  The Colt feels more robust than the Smith.  Weight is pretty close overall as the Smith has a factory "very" heavy barrel.  Single action on the Smith is 3.5lbs with a double action pull of around 10.7lbs.  The DA pull on the Colt is smoother though.  Build quality is IMHO better on the Colt as well.  Not that the Smith is inferior by any means, just that the fitment of the Colt is that much better.  The crane to frame fit on the Colt is excellent.  Very thin lines.  Also, the cylinder just glides.  Completely different surface finish as well.  The Smith is a more dull stainless where the Colt is almost Bright.  I don't have a recent pic of the Smith, but here she is with a 66-7 2.5".



From a reloaders perspective, the Colt requires extra care due to the shortness of the cylinder.  I used to load my 357 rounds to 1.61".  Can't do that with the Colt.  I have to drop back to 1.59".  Of course, I learned this with my Trooper MkIII earlier this year.  I wouldn't call it an "issue", just something to be advised of.  Holding the 66-5 and the Python beside each other, you can really see how much shorter the Python cylinder is compared to the Smith.

Shooting, I can't really give a good comparison yet as I have WAY more rounds through the Smith and not enough through the Colt.  Both handle my 38-44 level 357 loads (1100fps 158gr SWC's) with zero drama.  Majority of rounds through both is 158gr SWC 38 Specials at 820fps.  A pussycat in both.  I will say, so far with the limited exposure, the Colt is a shooter.

Anyway, for a carry revolver, I would and do carry the Smith.  It's a little smaller width wise and no less capable.  The Colt is growing on me though and goes nicely with my Diamondback, Trooper, and Magnum Carry to start filling out my Colt DA "collection".....  Once my Simply Rugged holster comes in it'll get some belt time.  I've got a small trip coming up and I'm hoping Rob can get the holster to me in time.

Nice setup.  I just received a sourdough from Rob last week.  I bought one for my 4.25" Python and will also accommodate my 3".  I haven't carried either one, due to their size, so my holster is primarily used for range and for nightstand duty.