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Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Colt Anaconda, introduced in 1990, marked the return of Colt's large-frame double-action revolvers after the discontinuation of the New Service in 1942. Based on the successful King Cobra design, the Anaconda featured a stainless steel construction and a transfer bar ignition-safety action, specifically engineered to handle the powerful .44 Magnum round. With a massive forged frame and heat-treated cylinder, it was built for maximum strength and durability. The Anaco …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: In 1942 Colt discontinued it's large-frame double-action revolver, the New Service. Colt would not build another large frame model until 1990 when it introduced the Colt Anaconda. The Anaconda was a stainless steel revolver based on the proven King Cobra revolver design, using a transfer bar ignition-safety action. The Anaconda was designed for unlimited use of .44 Magnum ammo and had a massive forged frame and cylinder heat treatment to provide maximum strength. It was …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: Colt introduced the Python revolver in 1955: the same year Smith & Wesson introduced their own iconic Model 29 in .44 magnum: the 1950’s were a wonderful time for American cars and revolvers it seems.  While many a Smith & Wessons was returned barely used, the Python offered a “magnum” that could be fired without flinch inducing trauma.  Production ceased in 1999 with only custom orders available until 2005 when the last, the 50th …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Colt Storekeeper’s Model is a rare and compact variation of the iconic Colt Single Action Army (SAA) revolver, designed for discreet carry in urban settings during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While never an official factory designation, the term “Storekeeper’s Model” was adopted by collectors to describe short-barreled SAA revolvers, typically with 4" barrels and no ejector rod assembly. These guns were favored by shopkeepers, gamb …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: Smith & Wesson’s dominance in the .357 Mag. market changed forever in 1955; however, when Colt introduced its first revolver chambered in .357 Mag.: the Python. By all accounts, this was also considered by Colt executives to be the finest revolver the company produced at the time. No expense was spared in the manufacturing process, from the revolver’s timing and lock-up to its Royal Blue finish, this would be the pinnacle of Colt’s manufac …