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Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Colt Python revolver holds a prestigious position in the history of modern double-action American handguns. Introduced in the mid-1950s, this firearm was developed during a time when the quality of American gunmaking was beginning to decline from its peak in the 1930s and 1940s. Rather than joining the trend of fast, mass-production firearms constructed from stamped and fabricated parts, the Python was designed to be the finest revolver ever manufactured in America, …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Colt King Cobra made a highly anticipated return in 2019, marking a major moment in Colt's history as it re-entered the double-action revolver market with a vengeance. Following the success of the Colt Cobra in 2017, the King Cobra emerged as the powerful, stainless-steel .357 Magnum "big brother" of the Cobra. This reincarnation of the legendary revolver retains all of the rugged durability and precision that made its predecessor a favorite among collectors and enth …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: In 1966, Colt introduced the Colt Diamondback revolver. The Diamondback was intended to be a premium quality adjustable sighted small framed revolver resembling the popular Python. The new Diamondback was built on the Colt "D" frame used for the Detective Special, Police Positive Special, etc. It had a wide, long, grooved Target hammer, Target-type walnut grips, Colt Accro adjustable sight, and a barrel that looked like a Python barrel and was built on Python machinery. …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: Smith & Wesson has earned a legendary reputation over nearly 170 years as one of the most respected firearm manufacturers in the United States, known for producing high-quality firearms that span a wide range of designs. While the company is renowned today for its extensive collection of semi-automatic pistols and rifles, it is perhaps most famous for its revolvers, which are widely regarded as some of the finest handguns in the world. Among these, the Smith & We …

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, Colt executives also considered this 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 manufacturing prowe …