WB
The greatest .357 Magnum handgun ever?
Friday, January 10, 2020, 10:11

Opinions, like assholes, most have at least one. For me the .357 question falls interestingly, a decision between DA revolvers. I don't know why I by-pass all the delightful Single Actions, I just do, and have no regrets. I'd argue the OM Ruger SA otherwise. Then it diverts over to Flat-top vs reinforced rear sight topstrap later pre-72. Probably it's for the best.

So it's the Colt Python vs the S&W M27. The 27 was the first but I let the Colt compete on it's own merits, the New Service predated it anyway. I have owned and shot both and must confess, although I'm a Colt man from way back, the M27 wins my competition. Period. It is robust, refined, and with the 3 T's, sublime. The Colt is too but not as robust, and the grip is funky shaped. On those two points it loses out.

Now everyone wants the 3.5" but I really dig the 8-3/8". It's hard to miss with one and when you do it's your fault and everyone knows it. Just like with the Python. Interestingly, I now own neither, may inherit a M27 one day, but it's not actually mine now. I currently have a 686 4" and a 6.5" stls. Ruger SA.