Fyshbum
Member
Joe, the Python would be foolish if I remember correctly what Chad has written. I seem to remember that he has said certain parts are becoming scarce and maintaining a Python will only become more expensive.
What about a .22 semi auto? A used Ruger Mk II or new Mk III? Yes, reassembly can be a pain, but they are fun guns to shoot.
Or... How about a Ruger single action Blackhawk? .357/.38 special caliber.
Or...Skip the 38/.357, since you already have one, and get one of the .44 special or .45 colt blackhawk or flattops. You already reload, components are easily found, and you cannot beat the versatility of a large caliber single action. From snake loads to hunting loads thay can handle it all in a gun that is readily available, affordable, easy to fix (if they ever break), and accurate enough for most handgun shooting many of us will ever attempt.
I mentioned the new flattops because they are under 40 ounces and are quite handy in the 4.75 and 5.5 barrel lengths. In the .45 colt they can push a 270-300 grain cast bullet @ 1100 fps, at their recommended pressure limit, which is plenty for just about all NA big game. Even the factory 250-255 grain loads which shoot like creampuffs are good enough for deer, smaller black bear, and hogs inside 50 yards.
At $350-550 or just a little more in SS they are a heck of a bargain for such a usefull handgun.
Or if you are a double action fan the .44 or .45 in the S&W mountian guns are really handy and great shooters. They do cost more, in the range of 600-1000 though. They are very well made and most are in Stainless.
Just a thought.