Practical differences between 4" Python and 4" King Cobra?

[Smaug]

It used to be that the Python had a smoother and crisper trigger, that was a bit fragile and needed periodic adjustment by a gunsmith.

The King Cobra then had a cheaper trigger with fewer components, but was more robust, but not as nice.

Is this still the case? If not, how would one justify the extra $500 expense?

https://www.colt.com/detail-page/colt-king-cobra-target-357-mag-4-6rd-stainless-kcobra-sb4ts

https://www.colt.com/detail-page/colt-python-425

 

[Paul7]

IMHO no there isn't any practical difference, you're just paying for the Python name. Have heard others rave about their King Cobras.

 

[reddog81]

The Python is a larger gun. I has a larger frame, larger grips and the vented barrel. The King Cobra supposedly has more MIM parts, but I couldn't tell you if that's true or which parts. The King Cobra is pretty much the same size as the Cobra but with a thicker top strap and longer barrel. The King Cobra is obviously a better value, but it's not a Python...

 

[9mmepiphany]

The King Cobra is built on the D-frame (Detective Special) as opposed to the Python's I-frame...like the difference between the S&W 66 and 686

Besides being a smaller frame, the main difference is that it's action is powered by a coil spring as opposed to a leaf spring. If you can't tell the difference in feel, it doesn't make a difference. If you can, it makes all the difference.

 

[Walkalong]

What is the difference for those who can tell?

 

[UncleEd]

The D-frame new King Cobra Target is a handier
firearm than its bigger brother, the Python. A
lot depends on you, what your shooting regimen
is or will be. Just because of its size and extra
weight, I'd say the Python will better take a
steady diet of .357s.

Personally I prefer the King Cobra because I
shoot almost exclusively .38s and the lesser
weight is easier for me nowadays. Also I
favor it more as a concealed carry piece.

As a final note, the Python trigger is sharply
ridged and I found it painful in double action
shooting. I ground the trigger down but I
still ended up selling it. I even like the
Cobra trigger better though I still don't
like it as much as any vintage S&W .38.

 

[9mmepiphany]

What is the difference for those who can tell?

Smoother trigger travel and consistent build up of pressure as opposed to gritty travel with starts and stops.

With a DA trigger, you want each trigger stroke to bring the sights back onto target. You want to be able to "press through" the whole stroke without hesitation or stopping

 

[Peakbagger46]

The Cobra is significantly lighter/trimmer which makes all the difference on long mountain hikes. Love mine but never handled a Python either.

 

[Old Dog]

I've got the new 3" King Cobra and love it. Possibly my new favorite all-purpose revolver. Light, great-handling. Simply awesome trigger. Yeah, I want the 4" Target model badly, but this gun is scarce these days.


The 4" Python is a terrific revolver, but not anywhere near as practical for concealed carry. For OWB woods and trail carry, for sure. As @UncleEd noted, the sharp serrated trigger is a different beast and for some, may take some getting used to or modification.

 

[JDeere]

I just picked up a KC Target and besides other things mentioned I really like the stock grips and will not change them. I changed out the grips on the Python because they were not comfortable for me. I also like the fiber optic front sight. Some will poo poo on it because of looks but I bought it for target shooting. The smaller frame is fine since I don't plan on running a steady diet of .357 through her. I run 38+p loads at the range mostly. As far as a woods gun my 686 will still my go to.

 

[Paul7]

The King Cobra is obviously a better value, but it's not a Python...

Neither is the new Python.