Smython

Jhp147 · August 28, 2001, 05:06 AM

In the revolver forum, they are discussing three inch Colt Python barrels being available for 93 bucks. I recall articles in the late 70's on Python bbls. being put on K-frame Smiths and also on on Ruger Security Sixes (nicknamed Cougars).
Question: Can any of you tell me if the Python bbl. could be put on an L-frame, and if so, can it be done without major metal surgery and expense?

George Stringer · August 28, 2001, 08:04 AM

It depends on the shank dia and tpi. The Smith K would need a shank .542-36tpi. I've got the Python dimensions around here somewhere I just can't put my hand on it. (Read remember what book it's in). George

buzz_knox · August 28, 2001, 08:11 AM

Yes, it can be done, and I don't think the "operation" is that damaging to the patient. Whether it's reversible is another question.

Ayoob had an article about a tricked up Smython in one of his annuals a few years back. I'll see if I can track it down.

HankB · August 28, 2001, 03:21 PM

Considering what's been happening to quality control at Colt's in recent years, I don't know what you'd hope to accomplish by putting one of today's Python barrels on a Smith.

Wouldn't you also need to put in a ball crane lock or something, since - IIRC - the Colt barrels don't lock up the end of the ejector rod?

Jim V · August 28, 2001, 04:45 PM

Don't most, if not all, of the L frames have Python looking barrels anyway?

Jhp147 · August 28, 2001, 06:20 PM

HankB, I have not kept up with the problems at Colt. I don't think that the 3 inchers are a recent thing, but I could be wrong. As far as the lock up, I'm not sure. I'm sure the articles on doing it answered it, and I seem to recall it being very easy, at least for a K frame.
JimV, the L frames have an underlugged bbl., but without the vent rib, it is not as sharp looking in my eyes. Again, I recall the photos in the article, and the vent rib on the Colt bbl. and the S&W frame really matched well.
Buzz, if you come up with the article and can get some info, that would be great, but don't bust your hump, it's just sort of a "wondering" thing for me. If you can post a photo, that would be great. Was it on a K or L or do you recall?
Thanks, George, also.
I had a 3 inch 686 once, called the CS-1. I am still kicking myself for selling it. I want a 3 inch L or K, something like one of the PC Smiths but without the ports, pretty bad, for some reason.

Jim V · August 28, 2001, 08:13 PM

AFAICR, the Smolts were all done on K frames. I don't believe that the L frame had hit the market at that time.

August 28, 2001, 05:06 AM	#1
Jhp147 Senior Member Join Date: November 27, 1999 Location: Texas Posts: 597	Smython In the revolver forum, they are discussing three inch Colt Python barrels being available for 93 bucks. I recall articles in the late 70's on Python bbls. being put on K-frame Smiths and also on on Ruger Security Sixes (nicknamed Cougars). Question: Can any of you tell me if the Python bbl. could be put on an L-frame, and if so, can it be done without major metal surgery and expense? __________________ Sometimes...days are just something you get through.

August 28, 2001, 03:21 PM	#4
HankB Senior Member Join Date: March 30, 2000 Location: Central Texas, outside of Austin Posts: 1,698	Considering what's been happening to quality control at Colt's in recent years, I don't know what you'd hope to accomplish by putting one of today's Python barrels on a Smith. Wouldn't you also need to put in a ball crane lock or something, since - IIRC - the Colt barrels don't lock up the end of the ejector rod? __________________ To be kind to your enemy is to be cruel to yourself - Sun Tzu

August 28, 2001, 04:45 PM	#5
Jim V Senior Member Join Date: January 31, 1999 Location: SE Michigan - USA Posts: 4,038	Don't most, if not all, of the L frames have Python looking barrels anyway? __________________ *MOLON LABE* If it ain't metal, single stack & single action, it ain't a 1911 no matter what it looks like. 1911 Forum THE TUBBY CURMUDGEON

August 28, 2001, 06:20 PM	#6
Jhp147 Senior Member Join Date: November 27, 1999 Location: Texas Posts: 597	addit... HankB, I have not kept up with the problems at Colt. I don't think that the 3 inchers are a recent thing, but I could be wrong. As far as the lock up, I'm not sure. I'm sure the articles on doing it answered it, and I seem to recall it being very easy, at least for a K frame. JimV, the L frames have an underlugged bbl., but without the vent rib, it is not as sharp looking in my eyes. Again, I recall the photos in the article, and the vent rib on the Colt bbl. and the S&W frame really matched well. Buzz, if you come up with the article and can get some info, that would be great, but don't bust your hump, it's just sort of a "wondering" thing for me. If you can post a photo, that would be great. Was it on a K or L or do you recall? Thanks, George, also. I had a 3 inch 686 once, called the CS-1. I am still kicking myself for selling it. I want a 3 inch L or K, something like one of the PC Smiths but without the ports, pretty bad, for some reason. __________________ Sometimes...days are just something you get through.

August 28, 2001, 08:13 PM	#7
Jim V Senior Member Join Date: January 31, 1999 Location: SE Michigan - USA Posts: 4,038	AFAICR, the Smolts were all done on K frames. I don't believe that the L frame had hit the market at that time. __________________ *MOLON LABE* If it ain't metal, single stack & single action, it ain't a 1911 no matter what it looks like. 1911 Forum THE TUBBY CURMUDGEON

August 28, 2001, 08:04 AM	#2
George Stringer Staff Alumnus Join Date: October 12, 1998 Location: Earlington KY Posts: 2,299	It depends on the shank dia and tpi. The Smith K would need a shank .542-36tpi. I've got the Python dimensions around here somewhere I just can't put my hand on it. (Read remember what book it's in). George

August 28, 2001, 08:11 AM	#3
buzz_knox Senior Member Join Date: December 2, 1999 Location: Knoxville, in the Free State of Tennesse Posts: 4,190	Yes, it can be done, and I don't think the "operation" is that damaging to the patient. Whether it's reversible is another question. Ayoob had an article about a tricked up Smython in one of his annuals a few years back. I'll see if I can track it down.

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