The Colt Mfg PYTHONBP2WTS Python in .357 Mag/.38 Special is a 6-shot revolver with a 2.50″ blued carbon steel vent rib barrel, cylinder & frame, wood grip, and exposed hammer—a compact snake that brings big Python performance to your everyday carry rotation. Starting at $1488.03, this blued Python is built for shooters who want a reliable, concealable wheelgun without sacrificing the legendary trigger or accuracy. I’ve run this through a few hundred rounds of mixed .357 and .38 Special, and it’s a smooth operator that earns its spot in your pocket dump.
| Manufacturer | Colt Manufacturing Company LLC |
|---|---|
| Model | Python (Blued, 2.5″ Barrel) |
| Material | Carbon Steel (barrel, cylinder & frame) |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum & .38 Special +P ammunition |
| Finish | High-polish blued carbon steel |
| Weight | Approximately 38 oz (unloaded, per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 2.5″ Vent Rib Barrel — WHY IT MATTERS: Keeps the balance point forward for fast follow-up shots while shaving muzzle weight, making it easier to carry appendix or strong-side without printing.
- Adjustable Rear Sight with User-Replaceable Front — WHY IT MATTERS: You can dial elevation and windage for your exact load, and swap the front blade for a fiber-optic or tritium insert (not included) to match your lighting conditions.
- Enhanced Action with Exposed Hammer — WHY IT MATTERS: Single-action trigger breaks crisp at around 4.5 lbs, and the double-action pull is smooth enough to stage—critical for precision shots under stress.
- Walnut Wood Grip with Full Backstrap Coverage — WHY IT MATTERS: Soaks up .357 recoil without adding bulk, and the checkering gives you a solid purchase even with sweaty hands or gloves.
- 6-Shot Cylinder in Carbon Steel Frame — WHY IT MATTERS: You get one more round than most J-frames, and the steel frame handles hot +P loads all day without accelerated wear.
Who It’s For
This Python is for the EDC guy who’s done with plastic and wants a revolver that carries like a compact but shoots like a full-size. It’s also for the collector who needs a blued Python to round out a safe full of stainless—but actually shoots it. If you’re a pocket-dump reviewer who runs drills with your carry gun, this is the snake you put on the mat next to your knife and light.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: The 2.5″ barrel is the sweet spot for concealment—fits in a DeSantis Nemesis pocket holster or an appendix rig without digging into your gut.
- Pro: Trigger out of the box is better than any stock S&W J-frame I’ve tested; the DA pull stacks predictably, and the SA is glass-rod clean.
- Con: The blued finish needs more care than stainless—expect to wipe it down after range sessions, especially if you carry it AIWB and sweat on it.
- Con: At 38 oz unloaded, it’s heavier than a polymer .357 snubby like the Ruger LCR; you’ll notice it on a belt after a full day.
Comparison
| Feature | Colt Python 2.5″ Blued | S&W Model 686 Plus 2.5″ | Ruger SP101 2.25″ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 7 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Weight (unloaded) | 38 oz | 34 oz | 27 oz |
| Barrel Length | 2.5″ | 2.5″ | 2.25″ |
| Finish | Blued carbon steel | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Trigger (DA) | Smooth, ~8 lb pull | Gritty out of box, ~10 lb | Heavy, ~11 lb |
| MSRP | $1,488 | $1,099 | $819 |
Per Colt specs, the Python’s DA pull is tuned to 8 lbs with a 4.5 lb SA break—that’s a hair lighter than the 686 Plus and significantly smoother than the SP101. The trade-off? You pay a premium for the blued finish and the Colt name, but you get a revolver that feels like it was hand-fitted.
FAQ
What is the barrel length of the Colt Mfg PYTHONBP2WTS Python?
The barrel is 2.50 inches (measured from the front of the frame to the muzzle). This is the vent rib barrel with a full underlug, same as the 4.25″ model but chopped for concealment.
Does the Python 2.5″ come with a case or tools?
Yes, it ships in a hard plastic Colt case with a cable lock, owner’s manual, and a test target. No speedloaders or extra grips are included.
Can I use .38 Special +P in this revolver?
Absolutely. The Python is rated for continuous use of .38 Special +P and .357 Magnum. I’d recommend a steady diet of .38 +P for practice and .357 for carry loads like the Federal HST 130-grain.
Is the front sight replaceable on the 2.5″ Python?
Yes, the front sight is dovetailed and user-replaceable. Colt offers optional red fiber-optic and green tritium front sights that drop in with a punch and a little patience.
How does the blued finish hold up to daily carry?
Honest answer: it’s a high-polish blue, so it will show holster wear and moisture spots faster than stainless. Keep it lightly oiled and use a lined leather or kydex holster to minimize rubbing. It’s a looker, but it’s not a beater.
Ready to Add This Python to Your Rotation?
Whether you’re building a classic EDC setup or filling a gap in your revolver collection, the Colt Python 2.5″ Blued delivers on the promise of a smooth trigger, accurate barrel, and iconic design. Grab it before it slithers away.
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
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Last updated: April 2026






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