Here's something interesting for you to note, Nick: do you know why both companies (plus S&W) went from 4" to four-point-something inch barrels on their revolvers back in the mid-20-teens? Well, it was specifically to sidestep Canadian import regulations that made any handgun with a barrel length of less than 101 millimeters (4.1 inches) a Prohibited Weapon under Canadian law. They actually all went the extra step to try to cut Canadian revolver shooters a break. Sadly, THIS year, Canada's authoritarian Liberal government made it all a moot point, and outright prohibited the transfer of ANY handguns, effective immediately. Basically, it means those of us who own them get to keep them, but you can't buy, sell, trade, or give them away. When you die, they are confiscated by the state. And since handguns have been classified as Restricted Weapons in Canada for decades, meaning that their ownership had to be registered with police, they know exactly who owns what. THIS is why you NEVER allow registration of guns. Period.
I DID know that, ironically and surprisingly. What they did to y'all is an outrage. I fear that as much as folks like myself try to oppose any further restrictions, eventually the emotionally driven uninformed folks will get their way. When people have never needed a firearm, or even known someone that needed a firearm, it gets a whole lot harder to get them to see why folks like you and I want to keep one around. Some people are just way too comfortable having another grown man (with a gun) be their first line of defense against a violent threat, and THAT is something I'll never understand. As a side note, we're far from full down here, and while I know there's probably a billion reasons to stay.... we could use some folks like you that see things the way you do to help balance the other side of the equation lol
@@redraiderrider3289 Or the government imports people who vote the way it likes in sufficient numbers to create super majorities such as in Kalifornia.
I've got a Ruger GP-100 in the 38/357, there is no mistake in buying this handgun. Tough, rugged, robust, reliable, well you get the jist. I'm confident enough to let my wife take it with her. Confident enough to get one for my daughter. These two women are precious to me so as far as I'm concerned, only the best for them.
I have had both. The Ruger is VERY comfortable to shoot. The Python did not work for me. Recoil stung my hand so bad that I couldn't finish the cylinder due to the pain. I can shoot 100 rounds through the Ruger and feel just fine.
Have both in 6" form. Completely IMO, the Ruger is tougher, more comfortable in the hand, has a better cylinder release, and has better sights. The Python is smoother in operation with a better trigger, has a better finish, and is slightly nicer in overall looks. The Ruger is a far better value for your money. The Colt is more a collector's piece, something you buy because you want it, not because you're looking for the most efficient tool.
The Rugers have always been tough, I have had virtually every kind of Ruger Revolver. I have grown to love the Ruger single actions, but with respect to double action revolvers, I always prefer Colts and Smiths. The new Colts are the best Colt double actions ever made.
I had 2 Pythons in the late 70’s and they both shot out of time so easy that they were the guns that led me to the Ruger brand and I’ve never looked back. All 12 of my revolvers wear the Ruger name. With that said I’m lookin forward to getting one of the new Henry Big Boy revolvers to add to my revolver collection.
Those Henry revolvers are interesting for sure. I might get one at some point, but I kind of want to see how they hold up. I'm sorry to hear about your Python experiences. :(
I have a 6" GP100 6 shooter. It is very accurate. Last time I was out at the range I rang steel at 50 yards six out of six. I'm a granny so I like that soft grip with the inserts. Makes shooting spicy 357 more comfortable.
I have a 4 inch GP100 and a 4 inch 686-2. Both guns are fun to shoot. The GP100's trigger can be dialed in with a little time and work. Love both guns.
Ruger all day. The colt is better by cosmetics. I had two brand new king cobra targets. Had to send back several Times for out of time. Give me ruger. Better customer service too
No problems with the Ruger revolvers, period. The problem is with the late Bill Ruger, Sr. In 1989, he sent a personal letter to every member of the House and Senate, SUGGESTING that they ban "Assault weapons" and establish magazine capacity limits. This letter was printed in American Handgunner magazine and reprints are available. It was a BUSINESS move on hus part, intended to run Springfield Armory into bankruptcy, which it did. All the long guns Springfield sold were imported and banned. Ruger was rewarded for being a reasonable Firearms industry leader, by NOT banning the Mini 14: same round as the M-16, and the full-auto version had a higher cyclic rate of fire than the M-16... In MY opinion, Bill Sr. was a traiter to all true 2A believers and all Americans. Hammer USAF SSgt; US Army CW4/Sr Aviator; INS/ICE/CBP, ret.
That was certainly disgraceful, in my opinion. I always thought it had more to do with saving the money maker that was the mini-14, and sacrificing higher capacity mags in the process. I hadn't heard the Springfield Armory angle before. Either way, unacceptable behavior.
Have GP100 with 5” barrel. Did a trigger job and put in lighter springs. Smooth easy double action and very light single action. Still the tank of a frame.
I have the GP100 .357 SS 7 shot 6"; it can get barrel heavy after shooting for a while. I find the factory grips, wood inserts in rubber frame, very comfortable. Yet in my SP101 3.2" I very quickly replaced the same style of grips with Hogue Monogrips. I can't speak to the Python, but light strikes in DA has been a known issue. IMO that shouldn't happen in a revolver costing $1,500.00 plus.
I have 3 old model Pythons in dif bbl lengths.ive only ever shot the 4 inch. In the early 90 's i got a GP100 4 inch . I did a full action tune and a set of wolf springs and after shooting it 100 rds or so the action was so close to my python i pretty much ended up shooting the Gp most of the time. I found that no matter what grips including an old set of pachmyer grips on the colt the GP was much easier to shoot . The I frame colt was harder to control also. So if i could only have one of the guns it would be the GP .
That's a fair assessment, especially where the older snake guns are concerned. As I understand it, they make good investment pieces, and dragging them through the woods or shooting them a lot probably isn't the best course of action for most of us. lol
Out of the box give me my ruger gp100 357mag every time. I have drug this revolver through hell and back. Everything from camping fishing and hunting. I took down Everything from snakes to pigs with It. Dropped it countless times and one time ran over it with my Ford never changed my mind
I have shot and was a😮 member at Pickens. Shot mostly rifle range. My GP100s shot very tight group. Havent shot much factory ammo. But they are very very accurate with 140 gr ftxs and Enforcer powder.. mine if you learn your trigger you can "set" your trigger in double action pull.
Lucky enough to have got an original Python in 1996 and some S&W K and L frames as well as Ruger GP100. For my opinion, the original Colt Python is the Rolex of revolvers, don’t hammer them with hot loads and you should be fine. Rumor has it they don’t like getting hammered and could go out of time. S&W K frames weren’t originally designed for a steady diet of magnum rounds because it could crack the forcing cone at the six o clock position. The L frames were designed to take a steady diet of magnum rounds. S&W revolvers are great firearms especially the pre lock versions with a good supply of parts and gunsmiths that know how to tune them. Ruger GP100 designed to compete with the L frames and shoot a steady diet of magnum rounds. Parts availability and gunsmiths are also good for these firearms. Original Colts the parts availability and gunsmiths that could tune them are very very few nowadays. Just my opinion. All revolvers mentioned are great firearms, just depends on how you want to use it . Have a Blessed Day 🇺🇸TCB⚡️
I have 686 plus's,gp100 & Colt KC & Python,I had to send back the Python 2x's once for stuck cyclinder stop & when I got it back it looks like some dropped it & put a nick by the forcing cone,I sent it back & they sent me a new one hopefully they did the paper work,if I were to take one in the woods Id take a 686 or the gp100
I have a GP100 with a 2.5 inch barrel and a Kimber K6S with a 3 inch barrel. Had a Colt King Cobra but I didn't like the long trigger reset so I sold it. My carry gun is a S&W M&P 340 after having a LCR and a 642 in 38 SPL Have you been to the Talking Rock Brewery? I know the owners, they're great people.
I had 2 original Pythons back in the 70's. I had 2 of them because the first one was so bad I figured it was a lemon and sold it and bought another. After getting rid of that one also I moved to Smiths. I bought a M19 in 357 and shot it a lot until it cracked it's forcing cone, had that one repaired and sold it also. it was the 80's so I picked up a Ruger Security 6 and never looked back. Put thousands of rounds of full power 357 thru it without a hitch, still own it. A few years back I spotted a Lipsey's 3" 7 shot GP100 with an unfluted cylinder and fell in love with it and what a shooter. I have shot a 686, nice revolver just doesn't seem as robust as the Ruger and the trigger sucks, needs a lot of work. A friend let me shoot his new Python, seems better than the older models, good trigger and accurate. Surprisingly cost just a little more than my old model Colt's but still expensive and IMHO not worth the investment over my Rugers, they are just that good especially with the double spring action the Rugers use. A lighter rebound spring and a little polish work on my dining room table and the GP100 trigger is as nice as anything including my old Pythons or Smiths.
Those unfluted Ruger models sure do hit different. Beautiful guns all around. I may start tuning the Ruger up some. A lot of y'all have had really good results, so I may go that way
Phyton worth every penny over the price of the GP 100 . As my non gun loving wife said when I was looking for a 357 how long are you going to ( I'm 77 ) buy the best !😊
A 686 is another great option. It's my second choice after the Dan Wesson 715. The trigger on mine is even better than the 686's. Neither have a problem with honest 357 loads.
I really should add a 686 at some point if for no other reason than to round out the collection. lol A friend of mine has a Performance Center 686 that's buttery smooth.
Ruger GP100 4.2" Match Champion. SP101 2.25" Wiley Clapp. Put Hogue rubber grips on both. MCARBO spring kits plus internals polishing on both. Smoooooooth. Love love love them.
I am very fortunate in that I have alot of choices when I go to the range. But I always take my two carry guns and then whatever strikes my fancy that day. Hence I am not that great with the rest of the collection. My carry guns I make sure to stay ok with.
I have both. The GP has had a trigger tune up + springs and shims. The end result its brilliant. Everybody that has drove it can’t believe how awesome the trigger is. It’s equal to or superior to any Python I own or have drove. The GP has about 10-15% more travel but it’s so silky I can’t ding the extra travel -vs- Python.
What specifically did you get done? I just picked up a GP100 3" and its definitely a keeper. Only grip is the trigger pull, but i agree a good trigger on this gun and its literally perfect. Got it as a companion to my Henry Big Boy X .357 : )
Your GP100 is model 01771 shipped in 2018. I looked up its serial number from the Ruger website. I've been doing an extensive homework on the GP100. I'll be buying one, and so far I've watched tons of online reviews. While I plan on getting me the 6-shot most likely, what people are saying about the issues with the 7-shot is all tied to the 38 special casings, or cartridge. I personally would strictly stick with the .357 ammo pretty much.
That's strange that the new colt python you bought had the same problem that my smith and wesson model 19 classic had when I bought it new a couple years ago. I was getting light strikes with magnum rounds, but not .38 special. I took the grips off and checked the strain screw. Sure enough, it was loose. Tightened it up and the problem has never happened again since then. Sounds like yours was the same problem. I hope you didn't pay a gunsmith to do that though lol. I'm definitely not an expert at working on guns, but that's something simple enough that even I can do. The better question is though is how they leave the factory with that screw loose. Sounds like s&w and colt both need to do some improvement on their basic quality control.
IF you've been disappointed with the GP100, as I was, initially, when a friend had some extra 158-grain Magnum Rounds, instead of the 125-grain I'd BEEN using, THOSE were doing GREAT, so maybe try some heavier-weight projectiles, and you MIGHT find that your GP100 is turning-in very nice groups. Hey, it's worth a TRY, especially if you really like the ruggedness of the Ruger's construction. 🙂
I’ve got both and I like the Ruger a lot better in all aspects…feel, reliability, price, etc etc.. For the cost of a Python, I could get a Ruger, have work done to it and still have some cash for more ammo. It’s a hard toss up between which “brand” I like the most but at this point, I like the Ruger revolvers most. I’ve got a few S&W revolvers and they’re good guns as well. Out of the 3, it’s take Ruger. To each their own. Great video and yes, practice, practice, practice with what you’re gonna carry with the ammo you’re gonna carry
I think more apples to apples comparison would be between Python and GP100 Match Champion. They are both extremely good looking guns and both have great triggers.
Have a Ruger GP 100 and have had nothing but issues out of it.the hammer strut mainspring and hammer strut had to be replaced and the firing pin cracked.ive had alot of revolvers over the years but never anything like this.now it has to be sent back again.Im done with Ruger.Atleast my Super Redhawk has never failed me yet.
Both are awesome. If your someone who likes a good quality, strong 357 mag that goes bang and aren’t worried about the finer fit and finish get the Ruger, but if you want all that plus the finer fit,finish,trigger that comes with that cool factor and pride of ownership get the python
Hey Hungry Handgunner, I don't think this is a fair comparison, but I do own a Ruger sp101 and gp100. Colt is over priced. The Ruger cylinder release is far superior.
I go back and forth between 686 and GP100, which I'd rather. Does anyone know whether the chambers on the 686 Plus 7-shot are as close as the 7-shot GP100, in terms of being problematic with cartridge casings that are more varied in case head diameter than they should be?
Well done video, but can you tell me where you got the holster? I checked with 1791 and they said they don't make one for the Python. Thanks in advance
Python, I've shot both and the trigger on my Ruger even after changing springs and a trigger job by the gun smith still can't compare to the Python. So silky buttery smooth. You can feel the quality.
I have both guns...my python 3" is 100 % accurate...haven't shot the gp100 enough but a fairly accurate gun...my preference is the python..but have both.. and would not get rid of either one..
I have the gp100 MC in 10mm. Love that gun, it’s a sweet shooter and tougher than a stump. I’ll never get rid of it. Python is nice, sadly overpriced in my book.
Own both, the 6” versions, the Ruger wins IMO, the Colt looks sexier but that’s about all it has going for it. I can outshoot the colt with my Ruger and the Ruger has a longer cylinder for those heavy bullets. Don’t waste your money on the colt. IMO. ‘
I do not ' drag ' any of my lovely firearms through the woods, or any other kind of terra firma. Regardless of their cost I treat every one as a prized piece. I have recently acquired two ' as new ' 5 inch barreled GP 100s, one blue and the other stainless. Both wonderful shooters ! I will say I never used to care for the GP 100 and I was wanting a 6 inch S&W 686 as all my other .357s have 4 inch or 3 inch barrels. But when I came across my first GP 100 in SS I fell in love. Now when one makes the comparison between a Colt Python and a GP 100 or a S&W 686 or 586 they always claim that the trigger is ' so much ' better than either the Ruger or the Smith. Well let's see here. The Colt costs $1400 and a new 686/586 or GP 100 costs around $850. And if you purchase either the Smith or the Ruger, you can get a slick trigger if you want, that will rival the Python's for $75 to $100. Now I have owned two Pythons in my life. One a 6 inch blued version and the other a 4 inch SS version. Comparing the lock works between the Python, the Smith, and the Ruger, the lock works in both the Smith and the Ruger is much more robust than what was in earlier production Pythons. I do not know about the current production Pythons, though they all have ' issues '. Timing is one, light hammer strikes, loose screws on the side plate, and ??. As well as price ! Now I ain't sayin' the Pythons aren't purty ! They certainly are, however so is a Smith and Wesson and I have really come to love my GP 100s and their very solid design and construction. You have probably heard it before but.........They are built like a VW Beetle !!! OOHHH......TOUGH !! :-}
Perhaps "drag" was the wrong word if semantics are coming into play 😂😂 I meant "subjecting to the elements whilst holstered and in the back country, hunting or hiking- and possibly getting hit by brush, subjected to falls, etc..."
I knew what you meant, and I'm sure you do not literally ' drag ' any of your firearms through the woods. What came to mind when I read/saw that was there are a lot of people that don't give a rat's ' you know what ' when it comes to how they treat their firearms, and it just struck me as funny.@@ArchetypeofMan
For the price I'll always take the Ruger GP100 over anything else including Colt. I have the Ruger SP101 it's a 3-inch 5 shot in 357 Magnum. It's a great little gun I guess I just like the bigger frame on the GP100. I did notice when you were shooting a higher level of recoil on the GP100 and that really surprised me. Due to that thing being built like a tank.
@@WhyPhi me also. I have both of those guns and I also carry the GP100 from time to time. I'm also a revolver person and have not carried a semi-auto since I was forced to on the sheriff department. Now that I'm retired it's strictly revolvers
I truly like the tactical look of the ruger gp100 over the pretty boy look of the colt python, easily be happy buying 2 gp100s for price 1 colt, easiest choice I'd ever make
@@johndoee3850 I don’t know man I feel like the python is very over rated. I’m about to buy a new reveolver I already have a king cobra and it’s ehh, something tells me these ruger is the best bang for your buck quality and reliability
I have both 357 Pythons and GP 100 target. The difference my Pythons are 1960's vintage. The new Pythons do not have the smoothness and trigger pull of the old ones, so my comparison is biased. The old python functions like a swiss watch, its beautiful. The GP 100 is not close to the smoothness. That being said I think the GP 100 is a tank, reliable, just as accurate. The Pythons sit in the safe and are collector pieces I do not shoot any more. I bought the The GP 100 as a replacement for the Pythons and this my preference because of its Durability, accuracy, and being a comfortable shooter.
Looking at the new colts personally. Mostly because of cylinder rotation. Coming from 20 years in the world of single actions, every revolver I've ever shot rotates clockwise, dont want to change and screw up how I load different cartridges. S&W and Ruger are counterclockwise. Not that I'm not attracted to some of the Smiths lol.
couple of things come to mind. my handloads for .357 are 158 grain cast and coated. 125 cast bullets ....generally.... do not have enough bearing surface. sooo not particularly accurate unless the alloy is really really hard as your vid shows actually shows. next... anytime a Ruger beats any other revolver.... it means either it was special built or lottery winner lucky or the guns were not really tested for accuracy by using a rest at 25 yards and just blasting away at some really close range while standing on hind legs. next... sights make a huge difference. outdoors that glow plug front is just.... bad. next... notice the drag lines on the cyl... that means timing is.... haphazard at best. I do not want to rely on a gun that is haphazardly put together and gets mediocre accuracy.. but you get to tell people that being bulky (cast parts) makes it LOL 'tank like' my favorite laughing out loud comment. Reliability. My Python was made in 1969 no idea how many rounds been put through it. But.... .its reliability is not in question. I have a lot of guns. most are 6" or 5" and 20-100 years old. none are safe queens. I will carry any of em and a scratch is no big deal. At this point I have enough handguns that there is really no room for a Ruger or a Taurus (lol) the only ruger revolver I have is a dead mans gun handed to me on my friends deathbed ... a BH in .30 carbine... At least it has some interest just cause of the caliber. only took about 20 hours to get to be reliable. Next.. if you are starting in handloading probly a good idea to buy commercial cast and... coated bullets. by normal or heavy for caliber. that will save a lot of grief and guessing. use medium or light/heavy loads somewhere around 5% lower velocity than factory mag loads.... inversely... use slightly hotter cast bullet loads for like the 44 spl... mine is a 250 grain cast and coated SWC at around 850.... but... iighter and faster for caliber cast and coated swc for the 45 acp.. mine is a 200 grain at close to 1000 fps. With the expense and time required to handload... I see little or no use for a 125 grain uncoated cast bullet in .357... maybe 38 spl but.. why even bother? I do cast and coat my own bullets. I will also buy them cast and coated if I am feeling lazy. both work well. My top 5 handguns will all shoot into 1.5" at 25 yards. One is a 1911... another is my Python... another is my 70's model 19 target... another is my model 629 6" My Dan Wesson 44 mag is no slouch and last but not least is my 4.75" Uberti SAA clone in 44 spl. My social gun is a 340 Pd in .357 scandium. your mileage may vary but these are a few of the things I have learned along the way
I would pick the Python except for the fact of an occasional light strike every 50-100 rounds or so. Colt had it twice and found no issue. For serious work the GP100 or the S&W 686 can't be beat. They always go pop!
This is often due to a slightly light mainspring and that "light strike" that happens occasionally is usually a "harder primer" that pops up here and there. Keep in mind, the average 'Smith 686 has a DA pull of OVER 12#.
Got my GP100 over 20 years ago. Got it, a cheap holster, and two boxes of ammo under $450. Still have it and still love it.
Here's something interesting for you to note, Nick: do you know why both companies (plus S&W) went from 4" to four-point-something inch barrels on their revolvers back in the mid-20-teens? Well, it was specifically to sidestep Canadian import regulations that made any handgun with a barrel length of less than 101 millimeters (4.1 inches) a Prohibited Weapon under Canadian law. They actually all went the extra step to try to cut Canadian revolver shooters a break.
Sadly, THIS year, Canada's authoritarian Liberal government made it all a moot point, and outright prohibited the transfer of ANY handguns, effective immediately. Basically, it means those of us who own them get to keep them, but you can't buy, sell, trade, or give them away. When you die, they are confiscated by the state. And since handguns have been classified as Restricted Weapons in Canada for decades, meaning that their ownership had to be registered with police, they know exactly who owns what. THIS is why you NEVER allow registration of guns. Period.
You get thr government you deserve.
I DID know that, ironically and surprisingly. What they did to y'all is an outrage. I fear that as much as folks like myself try to oppose any further restrictions, eventually the emotionally driven uninformed folks will get their way. When people have never needed a firearm, or even known someone that needed a firearm, it gets a whole lot harder to get them to see why folks like you and I want to keep one around.
Some people are just way too comfortable having another grown man (with a gun) be their first line of defense against a violent threat, and THAT is something I'll never understand.
As a side note, we're far from full down here, and while I know there's probably a billion reasons to stay.... we could use some folks like you that see things the way you do to help balance the other side of the equation lol
Red RaiderRider.... not always. Sometimes folks just get outnumbered by the emotionally driven mis or uninformed. Dale is good people.
@@redraiderrider3289 Or the government imports people who vote the way it likes in sufficient numbers to create super majorities such as in Kalifornia.
They don't even allow handguns in Canada!
I've got a Ruger GP-100 in the 38/357, there is no mistake in buying this handgun. Tough, rugged, robust, reliable, well you get the jist. I'm confident enough to let my wife take it with her. Confident enough to get one for my daughter. These two women are precious to me so as far as I'm concerned, only the best for them.
I have had both. The Ruger is VERY comfortable to shoot. The Python did not work for me. Recoil stung my hand so bad that I couldn't finish the cylinder due to the pain. I can shoot 100 rounds through the Ruger and feel just fine.
The Ruger also is a lot more affordable.
What?????
The original Python was custom made. No two were alike. Now they are mass produced. I'd go with the Ruger or the Smith 586 L-Comp.
My heart says Python. My brain says GP100.
Both. Both is good. lol As a workhorse, I think the Ruger makes the most sense, but there's no denying the Python's looks
Have both in 6" form. Completely IMO, the Ruger is tougher, more comfortable in the hand, has a better cylinder release, and has better sights. The Python is smoother in operation with a better trigger, has a better finish, and is slightly nicer in overall looks.
The Ruger is a far better value for your money. The Colt is more a collector's piece, something you buy because you want it, not because you're looking for the most efficient tool.
Own both also, don’t waste your money on the colt.
😅 i feel the same way
The Rugers have always been tough, I have had virtually every kind of Ruger Revolver. I have grown to love the Ruger single actions, but with respect to double action revolvers, I always prefer Colts and Smiths. The new Colts are the best Colt double actions ever made.
I had 2 Pythons in the late 70’s and they both shot out of time so easy that they were the guns that led me to the Ruger brand and I’ve never looked back. All 12 of my revolvers wear the Ruger name. With that said I’m lookin forward to getting one of the new Henry Big Boy revolvers to add to my revolver collection.
Those Henry revolvers are interesting for sure. I might get one at some point, but I kind of want to see how they hold up. I'm sorry to hear about your Python experiences. :(
I have a 6" GP100 6 shooter. It is very accurate. Last time I was out at the range I rang steel at 50 yards six out of six. I'm a granny so I like that soft grip with the inserts. Makes shooting spicy 357 more comfortable.
It is a very comfy grip for sure!!
I have a 4 inch GP100 and a 4 inch 686-2. Both guns are fun to shoot. The GP100's trigger can be dialed in with a little time and work. Love both guns.
Ruger all day. The colt is better by cosmetics. I had two brand new king cobra targets. Had to send back several
Times for out of time. Give me ruger. Better customer service too
Man, that's crazy about the King Cobras. I've been thinking about getting one at some point, but your comment has given me some pause.
Ruger, Ruger, Ruger...did I mention Ruger?
I have the 4" GP100 with the Hogue grip. It was one of my bucket list guns.
No problems with the Ruger revolvers, period. The problem is with the late Bill Ruger, Sr. In 1989, he sent a personal letter to every member of the House and Senate, SUGGESTING that they ban "Assault weapons" and establish magazine capacity limits. This letter was printed in American Handgunner magazine and reprints are available. It was a BUSINESS move on hus part, intended to run Springfield Armory into bankruptcy, which it did. All the long guns Springfield sold were imported and banned. Ruger was rewarded for being a reasonable Firearms industry leader, by NOT banning the Mini 14: same round as the M-16, and the full-auto version had a higher cyclic rate of fire than the M-16... In MY opinion, Bill Sr. was a traiter to all true 2A believers and all Americans. Hammer
USAF SSgt; US Army CW4/Sr Aviator; INS/ICE/CBP, ret.
That was certainly disgraceful, in my opinion. I always thought it had more to do with saving the money maker that was the mini-14, and sacrificing higher capacity mags in the process. I hadn't heard the Springfield Armory angle before. Either way, unacceptable behavior.
RUGER without a doubt for me.
Have GP100 with 5” barrel. Did a trigger job and put in lighter springs. Smooth easy double action and very light single action. Still the tank of a frame.
That 5" seems pretty rare, but a nice length!!
I have the GP100 .357 SS 7 shot 6"; it can get barrel heavy after shooting for a while. I find the factory grips, wood inserts in rubber frame, very comfortable. Yet in my SP101 3.2" I very quickly replaced the same style of grips with Hogue Monogrips. I can't speak to the Python, but light strikes in DA has been a known issue. IMO that shouldn't happen in a revolver costing $1,500.00 plus.
I have 3 old model Pythons in dif bbl lengths.ive only ever shot the 4 inch.
In the early 90 's i got a GP100 4 inch .
I did a full action tune and a set of wolf springs and after shooting it 100 rds or so the action was so close to my python i pretty much ended up shooting the Gp most of the time.
I found that no matter what grips including an old set of pachmyer grips on the colt the GP was much easier to shoot .
The I frame colt was harder to control also.
So if i could only have one of the guns it would be the GP .
That's a fair assessment, especially where the older snake guns are concerned. As I understand it, they make good investment pieces, and dragging them through the woods or shooting them a lot probably isn't the best course of action for most of us. lol
I got my Ruger GP100 back in the early 80s only a few years after they were introduced. 1000s of trouble free rounds later i still got it.
Out of the box give me my ruger gp100 357mag every time. I have drug this revolver through hell and back. Everything from camping fishing and hunting. I took down Everything from snakes to pigs with It. Dropped it countless times and one time ran over it with my Ford never changed my mind
That's a pretty strong endorsement!! Glad to hear that!!
I have shot and was a😮 member at Pickens. Shot mostly rifle range.
My GP100s shot very tight group. Havent shot much factory ammo. But they are very very accurate with 140 gr ftxs and Enforcer powder.. mine if you learn your trigger you can "set" your trigger in double action pull.
They're all fun. My advice is to get both.
I'M GETTING ONE OF THOSE HOLSTERS!
Thanks!
Lucky enough to have got an original Python in 1996 and some S&W K and L frames as well as Ruger GP100. For my opinion, the original Colt Python is the Rolex of revolvers, don’t hammer them with hot loads and you should be fine. Rumor has it they don’t like getting hammered and could go out of time. S&W K frames weren’t originally designed for a steady diet of magnum rounds because it could crack the forcing cone at the six o clock position. The L frames were designed to take a steady diet of magnum rounds. S&W revolvers are great firearms especially the pre lock versions with a good supply of parts and gunsmiths that know how to tune them. Ruger GP100 designed to compete with the L frames and shoot a steady diet of magnum rounds. Parts availability and gunsmiths are also good for these firearms. Original Colts the parts availability and gunsmiths that could tune them are very very few nowadays. Just my opinion. All revolvers mentioned are great firearms, just depends on how you want to use it . Have a Blessed Day 🇺🇸TCB⚡️
That's a pretty well reasoned and thought out explanation. I'm inclined to agree with you.
Parts for the new 2020 Python are not available anywhere.
Colt Python all day. ❤ Great job. What is Your favorite gun to shoot?
Had colt. Sent back 3 times. Carry GP100 3 or 2.5 for over a decade edc. You know my answer. Thanks
I have 686 plus's,gp100 & Colt KC & Python,I had to send back the Python 2x's once for stuck cyclinder stop & when I got it back it looks like some dropped it & put a nick by the forcing cone,I sent it back & they sent me a new one hopefully they did the paper work,if I were to take one in the woods Id take a 686 or the gp100
I use Hornady it's either Critical Defense or critical duty 135 grain 357 Magnum. It's very good ammo never had a dud.
Smith and Wesson 686 and Gp 100 are the 2 that work for me.
Me, too! Same combination. Enjoy and happy shooting!
GP 100 , It has never failed and always has been with me. Since 85 my graduation present.
I have a GP100 with a 2.5 inch barrel and a Kimber K6S with a 3 inch barrel. Had a Colt King Cobra but I didn't like the long trigger reset so I sold it. My carry gun is a S&W M&P 340 after having a LCR and a 642 in 38 SPL Have you been to the Talking Rock Brewery? I know the owners, they're great people.
AoM. Good video. Nice shooting. Good looking guns! Thanks for sharing. Take care.
Thanks Bobcat!!
I had 2 original Pythons back in the 70's. I had 2 of them because the first one was so bad I figured it was a lemon and sold it and bought another. After getting rid of that one also I moved to Smiths. I bought a M19 in 357 and shot it a lot until it cracked it's forcing cone, had that one repaired and sold it also. it was the 80's so I picked up a Ruger Security 6 and never looked back. Put thousands of rounds of full power 357 thru it without a hitch, still own it. A few years back I spotted a Lipsey's 3" 7 shot GP100 with an unfluted cylinder and fell in love with it and what a shooter. I have shot a 686, nice revolver just doesn't seem as robust as the Ruger and the trigger sucks, needs a lot of work. A friend let me shoot his new Python, seems better than the older models, good trigger and accurate. Surprisingly cost just a little more than my old model Colt's but still expensive and IMHO not worth the investment over my Rugers, they are just that good especially with the double spring action the Rugers use. A lighter rebound spring and a little polish work on my dining room table and the GP100 trigger is as nice as anything including my old Pythons or Smiths.
Those unfluted Ruger models sure do hit different. Beautiful guns all around. I may start tuning the Ruger up some. A lot of y'all have had really good results, so I may go that way
ty for the vid
First time to your channel.
Like what I see..Seems like the Young Hickcock45 to me.
Keep up the GREAT work...Bill.
Mine is a Wiley Clapp 357 w 3” bbl + Underwood Defenders +P. No regrets
Those Wiley Clapp editions are NICE!
Phyton worth every penny over the price of the GP 100 . As my non gun loving wife said when I was looking for a 357 how long are you going to ( I'm 77 ) buy the best !😊
Colt has the looks. Like Sierra Bravo said, the new Vette.
Absolutely!!
A 686 is another great option. It's my second choice after the Dan Wesson 715. The trigger on mine is even better than the 686's. Neither have a problem with honest 357 loads.
I really should add a 686 at some point if for no other reason than to round out the collection. lol A friend of mine has a Performance Center 686 that's buttery smooth.
Ruger GP100 4.2" Match Champion. SP101 2.25" Wiley Clapp. Put Hogue rubber grips on both. MCARBO spring kits plus internals polishing on both. Smoooooooth. Love love love them.
Both guns are sexy af. I only own the GP 100 and I love it 🤷🏼♂️
I think you treated these fairly. Great vid, bro! New subscriber today.
I am very fortunate in that I have alot of choices when I go to the range. But I always take my two carry guns and then whatever strikes my fancy that day. Hence I am not that great with the rest of the collection. My carry guns I make sure to stay ok with.
I have both. The GP has had a trigger tune up + springs and shims. The end result its brilliant. Everybody that has drove it can’t believe how awesome the trigger is. It’s equal to or superior to any Python I own or have drove. The GP has about 10-15% more travel but it’s so silky I can’t ding the extra travel -vs- Python.
What specifically did you get done? I just picked up a GP100 3" and its definitely a keeper. Only grip is the trigger pull, but i agree a good trigger on this gun and its literally perfect. Got it as a companion to my Henry Big Boy X .357 : )
Your GP100 is model 01771 shipped in 2018. I looked up its serial number from the Ruger website. I've been doing an extensive homework on the GP100. I'll be buying one, and so far I've watched tons of online reviews. While I plan on getting me the 6-shot most likely, what people are saying about the issues with the 7-shot is all tied to the 38 special casings, or cartridge. I personally would strictly stick with the .357 ammo pretty much.
I got a new GP100 very recently. List was just over $1100! Python was $1500. Never shot a Python. But I am very happy with the big Ruger!
That's wild. I bought a GP100 for $700 in 2017.
You might not have looked very hard. They currently list for $750-850 range online retailers. That's for a stainless 4.2".
That's strange that the new colt python you bought had the same problem that my smith and wesson model 19 classic had when I bought it new a couple years ago. I was getting light strikes with magnum rounds, but not .38 special. I took the grips off and checked the strain screw. Sure enough, it was loose. Tightened it up and the problem has never happened again since then. Sounds like yours was the same problem. I hope you didn't pay a gunsmith to do that though lol. I'm definitely not an expert at working on guns, but that's something simple enough that even I can do. The better question is though is how they leave the factory with that screw loose. Sounds like s&w and colt both need to do some improvement on their basic quality control.
The gunsmith in question is a friend of mine. No charge lol
Have owened a security six since 78' stainless paid $150 for it and a holster. Love the way it shoots both rounds.
IF you've been disappointed with the GP100, as I was, initially, when a friend had some extra 158-grain Magnum Rounds, instead of the 125-grain I'd BEEN using, THOSE were doing GREAT, so maybe try some heavier-weight projectiles, and you MIGHT find that your GP100 is turning-in very nice groups. Hey, it's worth a TRY, especially if you really like the ruggedness of the Ruger's construction. 🙂
I'll give that a go! Certainly not disappointed in the gun itself, more my shooting performance when I filmed this lol
Love the QLS kydex holster for the GP100, do they still make them? Can't find a link!
I’ve got both and I like the Ruger a lot better in all aspects…feel, reliability, price, etc etc.. For the cost of a Python, I could get a Ruger, have work done to it and still have some cash for more ammo. It’s a hard toss up between which “brand” I like the most but at this point, I like the Ruger revolvers most. I’ve got a few S&W revolvers and they’re good guns as well. Out of the 3, it’s take Ruger. To each their own. Great video and yes, practice, practice, practice with what you’re gonna carry with the ammo you’re gonna carry
Without even watching the video I can say the GP100 is at least 400 dollars less expensive. I can buy a lot of ammo with 400 dollars.
I think more apples to apples comparison would be between Python and GP100 Match Champion. They are both extremely good looking guns and both have great triggers.
Have a Ruger GP 100 and have had nothing but issues out of it.the hammer strut mainspring and hammer strut had to be replaced and the firing pin cracked.ive had alot of revolvers over the years but never anything like this.now it has to be sent back again.Im done with Ruger.Atleast my Super Redhawk has never failed me yet.
Both are awesome. If your someone who likes a good quality, strong 357 mag that goes bang and aren’t worried about the finer fit and finish get the Ruger, but if you want all that plus the finer fit,finish,trigger that comes with that cool factor and pride of ownership get the python
Own a 6 inch New Colt Python it's just Gorgeous and Shoots good no timing problems.
Hey Hungry Handgunner, I don't think this is a fair comparison, but I do own a Ruger sp101 and gp100. Colt is over priced. The Ruger cylinder release is far superior.
Just got my ruger. Very nice gun.
Enjoy! I love my blued GP100 with a four-inch barrel. Have fun and shoot safe.
The Ruger 1702 was my choice as well; love the classic blued steel with the balance and versatility of the 4 inch barrel.
@deltabravo1811 two of the best revolvers ever made. The sw 686 is also very good. All 3 of those are top notch!
Just got the python now. It's really accurate. No problems.
I go back and forth between 686 and GP100, which I'd rather.
Does anyone know whether the chambers on the 686 Plus 7-shot are as close as the 7-shot GP100, in terms of being problematic with cartridge casings that are more varied in case head diameter than they should be?
Yeah the new anaconda has light primer strikes in double action with some brands of ammo like fiochi
Well done video, but can you tell me where you got the holster? I checked with 1791 and they said they don't make one for the Python. Thanks in advance
I apologize- it's their K Frame holster- It works with my GP100 and Python though. Here's a link- amzn.to/47CMOYV Mine is the "Signature Brown" color
@@ArchetypeofMan no apologies needed. It was strange that I saw you holding the holster but 1791 had no clue. Lesson is: Ask
I love my python. Beautiful gun.
Python, I've shot both and the trigger on my Ruger even after changing springs and a trigger job by the gun smith still can't compare to the Python. So silky buttery smooth. You can feel the quality.
Never had any problems with oversized rims on my smith 686 plus...7 shot
GP 100 owner from 1998. Like the man says, it's all in the topstrap.
Having owned both, I agree with your conclusions 100%. The Python's rear sight is Mickey Mouse, but I changed mine to a Wilson.
I need to do that Wilson rear sight swap. You're right about the factory one. Moves and adjusts on it's own I've come to find out lol
If you buy a Co2 Python toy, it actually has a better rear sight than the original. @@ArchetypeofMan
I just got that new colt 357 ,cost me 899,00 fits me like glove and iam a Ruger lover , but this colt is a keeper,
I have both guns...my python 3" is 100 % accurate...haven't shot the gp100 enough but a fairly accurate gun...my preference is the python..but have both.. and would not get rid of either one..
After watching a tank turret blow sky high, I am glad my GP100 is built like a great revolver and not a tank.
I have the gp100 MC in 10mm. Love that gun, it’s a sweet shooter and tougher than a stump. I’ll never get rid of it. Python is nice, sadly overpriced in my book.
I had a 6 inch gp100 recoil wasn't much more than a 22lr.. i might have to get a 4inch model
GP 100 3 inch and 6 inch stainless here.....no need to mess with anything else.
Solid choices for sure!
Own both, the 6” versions, the Ruger wins IMO, the Colt looks sexier but that’s about all it has going for it. I can outshoot the colt with my Ruger and the Ruger has a longer cylinder for those heavy bullets. Don’t waste your money on the colt. IMO.
‘
i have the 4 inch 686
I just had a 3"686+ sneak by me for a crazy price the other day. :( lol
The recoil arc of the test ammunition was fairly small. Kinda like a .38 or .38+.
I have both. I can’t decide.
Having both is a good problem to have lol. I wouldn't get rid of either of mine either lmao
I do not ' drag ' any of my lovely firearms through the woods, or any other kind of terra firma. Regardless of their cost I treat every one as a prized piece. I have recently acquired two ' as new ' 5 inch barreled GP 100s, one blue and the other stainless. Both wonderful shooters ! I will say I never used to care for the GP 100 and I was wanting a 6 inch S&W 686 as all my other .357s have 4 inch or 3 inch barrels. But when I came across my first GP 100 in SS I fell in love. Now when one makes the comparison between a Colt Python and a GP 100 or a S&W 686 or 586 they always claim that the trigger is ' so much ' better than either the Ruger or the Smith. Well let's see here. The Colt costs $1400 and a new 686/586 or GP 100 costs around $850. And if you purchase either the Smith or the Ruger, you can get a slick trigger if you want, that will rival the Python's for $75 to $100. Now I have owned two Pythons in my life. One a 6 inch blued version and the other a 4 inch SS version. Comparing the lock works between the Python, the Smith, and the Ruger, the lock works in both the Smith and the Ruger is much more robust than what was in earlier production Pythons. I do not know about the current production Pythons, though they all have ' issues '. Timing is one, light hammer strikes, loose screws on the side plate, and ??. As well as price ! Now I ain't sayin' the Pythons aren't purty ! They certainly are, however so is a Smith and Wesson and I have really come to love my GP 100s and their very solid design and construction. You have probably heard it before but.........They are built like a VW Beetle !!! OOHHH......TOUGH !! :-}
Perhaps "drag" was the wrong word if semantics are coming into play 😂😂 I meant "subjecting to the elements whilst holstered and in the back country, hunting or hiking- and possibly getting hit by brush, subjected to falls, etc..."
I knew what you meant, and I'm sure you do not literally ' drag ' any of your firearms through the woods. What came to mind when I read/saw that was there are a lot of people that don't give a rat's ' you know what ' when it comes to how they treat their firearms, and it just struck me as funny.@@ArchetypeofMan
Love your video. I prefer the GP. You didn't shoot poorly. Thanks for the video.
Thank you for the kind words!!
For the price I'll always take the Ruger GP100 over anything else including Colt. I have the Ruger SP101 it's a 3-inch 5 shot in 357 Magnum. It's a great little gun I guess I just like the bigger frame on the GP100. I did notice when you were shooting a higher level of recoil on the GP100 and that really surprised me. Due to that thing being built like a tank.
I have a gp100 and an sp101 and I still ccw with the gp100 if I carry a revolver 🤣
@@WhyPhi me also. I have both of those guns and I also carry the GP100 from time to time. I'm also a revolver person and have not carried a semi-auto since I was forced to on the sheriff department. Now that I'm retired it's strictly revolvers
I believe Ruger does make a 3 inch barrel. The heavier GP100 frame would be good for recoil. The SP101 is a little light for 357 recoil.
I truly like the tactical look of the ruger gp100 over the pretty boy look of the colt python, easily be happy buying 2 gp100s for price 1 colt, easiest choice I'd ever make
Ruger hands down. Just my opinion. Take care......
Colt python is king!!
@@johndoee3850 I don’t know man I feel like the python is very over rated. I’m about to buy a new reveolver I already have a king cobra and it’s ehh, something tells me these ruger is the best bang for your buck quality and reliability
@2strokemigz I have the Ruger The colt smokes it.
The Ruger then do a trigger job on it.
I have the gp100. Awesome gun. I use it for coyote
Got $$$$ Both, Own the Python 6", Luv it. Next is the Ruger
686plus. You get an extra shot
Colt King Cobra Carry. 2” barrel. 6 shots
I have a Ruger GP100 Match Champion and a 686. I much prefer my 686 over the Ruger. I’ve never shot a Python so I have no frame of reference there.
I have both 357 Pythons and GP 100 target. The difference my Pythons are 1960's vintage. The new Pythons do not have the smoothness and trigger pull of the old ones, so my comparison is biased. The old python functions like a swiss watch, its beautiful. The GP 100 is not close to the smoothness. That being said I think the GP 100 is a tank, reliable, just as accurate. The Pythons sit in the safe and are collector pieces I do not shoot any more. I bought the The GP 100 as a replacement for the Pythons and this my preference because of its Durability, accuracy, and being a comfortable shooter.
I have both, but my Ruger is a Match Champion. Love them both and I shoot equally well with either one..kinda like having two wives, lol.
put that paper on your chest , its still a kill zone
I love my Ruger, I've had it forever. Non mod.. But, I really like the Colt. My friend has one. I like his trigger better.
Both are good options!
@@ArchetypeofMan Hard comparison. Tough one. You did good man. Good vid.
Great revolvers but I prefer the smith 686. 😁
VERY HAPPY🇺🇸💪🏼WITH MY GP-100 🤠
How about the S&W 8 shot. I rather have that one. Out of these two, the Ruger is a better bang for your buck 100%. The Colt is pretty.
Extremely difficult to find 327 federal ammo😢
Looking at the new colts personally. Mostly because of cylinder rotation. Coming from 20 years in the world of single actions, every revolver I've ever shot rotates clockwise, dont want to change and screw up how I load different cartridges. S&W and Ruger are counterclockwise. Not that I'm not attracted to some of the Smiths lol.
I catch myself having to remind me of which way it turns sometimes, myself. lol My Python is the only revolver I have that rotates that way
586 6inch
Those are really nice too!
couple of things come to mind. my handloads for .357 are 158 grain cast and coated. 125 cast bullets ....generally.... do not have enough bearing surface. sooo not particularly accurate unless the alloy is really really hard as your vid shows actually shows. next... anytime a Ruger beats any other revolver.... it means either it was special built or lottery winner lucky or the guns were not really tested for accuracy by using a rest at 25 yards and just blasting away at some really close range while standing on hind legs. next... sights make a huge difference. outdoors that glow plug front is just.... bad. next... notice the drag lines on the cyl... that means timing is.... haphazard at best. I do not want to rely on a gun that is haphazardly put together and gets mediocre accuracy.. but you get to tell people that being bulky (cast parts) makes it LOL 'tank like' my favorite laughing out loud comment. Reliability. My Python was made in 1969 no idea how many rounds been put through it. But.... .its reliability is not in question. I have a lot of guns. most are 6" or 5" and 20-100 years old. none are safe queens. I will carry any of em and a scratch is no big deal. At this point I have enough handguns that there is really no room for a Ruger or a Taurus (lol) the only ruger revolver I have is a dead mans gun handed to me on my friends deathbed ... a BH in .30 carbine... At least it has some interest just cause of the caliber. only took about 20 hours to get to be reliable. Next.. if you are starting in handloading probly a good idea to buy commercial cast and... coated bullets. by normal or heavy for caliber. that will save a lot of grief and guessing. use medium or light/heavy loads somewhere around 5% lower velocity than factory mag loads.... inversely... use slightly hotter cast bullet loads for like the 44 spl... mine is a 250 grain cast and coated SWC at around 850.... but... iighter and faster for caliber cast and coated swc for the 45 acp.. mine is a 200 grain at close to 1000 fps. With the expense and time required to handload... I see little or no use for a 125 grain uncoated cast bullet in .357... maybe 38 spl but.. why even bother? I do cast and coat my own bullets. I will also buy them cast and coated if I am feeling lazy. both work well. My top 5 handguns will all shoot into 1.5" at 25 yards. One is a 1911... another is my Python... another is my 70's model 19 target... another is my model 629 6" My Dan Wesson 44 mag is no slouch and last but not least is my 4.75" Uberti SAA clone in 44 spl. My social gun is a 340 Pd in .357 scandium. your mileage may vary but these are a few of the things I have learned along the way
Left out aword , how long are you going to live 😊
Pull trigger go bang target down…. Hmmmm works good.
.357sig in which revolver?
I would pick the Python except for the fact of an occasional light strike every 50-100 rounds or so. Colt had it twice and found no issue. For serious work the GP100 or the S&W 686 can't be beat. They always go pop!
This is often due to a slightly light mainspring and that "light strike" that happens occasionally is usually a "harder primer" that pops up here and there. Keep in mind, the average 'Smith 686 has a DA pull of OVER 12#.