I bought my first Python last October. It is a piece of art. Shooting .38+p are so enjoyable. It seems to come right back down to point. I have had S&W (not a registered or combat) and I don't think they compare. i would suggest you keep looking. I paid $1500 for a LNIB Python Elite. They are out there be paitent and when the opportunity comes jump on it. That is what I did. Only took 20 years!
Good luck,
WK