Colt Python 357 Magnum VS 38 Special

Published on September 26, 2024
Duration: 6:23

This video compares the Colt Python .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges, focusing on ballistic performance and recoil. The presenter conducts a trigger test, measures muzzle velocities using a chronograph, and compares the felt recoil between the two calibers fired from the same firearm.

Quick Summary

The Colt Python .357 Magnum demonstrates a significant performance difference compared to .38 Special. Chronograph tests showed 158gr .357 Magnum reaching 1265 fps and 158gr .38 Special at 745 fps. The Python's single-action trigger is exceptionally light, under 2.5 lbs, and recoil is noticeably higher with .357 Magnum.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Colt Python .357 Magnum
  2. 00:20Test Plan: Trigger, Ballistics, Recoil
  3. 00:32.357 Magnum Specs (158gr)
  4. 00:36.38 Special Specs (158gr)
  5. 00:49Chronograph Setup (Garmin C1 Pro)
  6. 00:56Trigger Test: Colt Python Single Action
  7. 01:17Trigger Pull Weight Estimate
  8. 01:25Chronograph Test Setup
  9. 01:31Shooting .38 Special First
  10. 02:04Chronograph Settings
  11. 02:21Cylinder Rotation Note (Colt vs S&W)
  12. 02:28.38 Special Chronograph Test
  13. 03:02.38 Special Velocity Results
  14. 03:13Shooting .357 Magnum Next
  15. 03:39.357 Magnum Chronograph Test
  16. 04:01.357 Magnum Velocity Results
  17. 04:10Comparing Advertised vs Actual Velocity
  18. 04:25Recoil Comparison Setup
  19. 04:45Firing 3x .38 Special vs 3x .357 Magnum
  20. 05:00.38 Special Recoil Impression
  21. 05:06Next Up: .357 Magnum Recoil
  22. 05:12.357 Magnum Recoil Impression
  23. 05:54Conclusion & Call to Action

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between .357 Magnum and .38 Special when fired from a Colt Python?

When fired from a Colt Python, .357 Magnum produces significantly higher muzzle velocities (around 1265 fps for 158gr) and noticeably more recoil compared to .38 Special (around 745 fps for 158gr). The trigger pull on the Colt Python is exceptionally light, measuring under 2.5 pounds in single-action mode.

How does the Colt Python's trigger compare to other revolvers?

The Colt Python's single-action trigger is highly praised, described as 'butter' and one of the lightest available for revolvers, comparable to premium brands like CZ. It measures just under 2.5 pounds, offering a crisp and smooth pull.

What muzzle velocities were recorded for .357 Magnum and .38 Special from the Colt Python?

During testing with a Garmin C1 Pro chronograph, the 158-grain .357 Magnum rounds achieved a velocity of 1265 feet per second, exceeding the advertised 1240 fps. The 158-grain .38 Special rounds recorded a velocity of 745 feet per second.

What is the typical recoil difference between .357 Magnum and .38 Special in a Colt Python?

The recoil difference is quite noticeable. While the 4-inch Colt Python mitigates some of the .357 Magnum's punch, it is still significantly more pronounced than the 'like no recoil' experienced with .38 Special rounds. This difference is more pronounced in lighter firearms.

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