The first “grail” gun I ever picked up was in college. If you don’t know, a grail gun is an item that seems nearly impossible to find. Think of these as the guns you want in your collection, the ones you lust after but never seem to find. This happens to collectors of all kinds. There’s always something we’re chasing.
For me, that was the Colt Python. And while I’m a 90s kid, I wasn’t influenced by Rick Grimes from The Walking Dead—I actually don’t care for that show. I remember reading about it in an old issue of Guns & Ammo or Outdoor Life and falling in love with it.
Wheel guns always caught my eye. Their simplicity, coupled with clean lines and precision machining, is what I enjoy most about them.
I came across a Colt Python in a local gun shop back in college, and it was a Royal Blue model from the mid-70s, fairly priced. Why? (There’s always a catch.) The original owner had swapped the Python grips for aftermarket rubber ones. It didn’t matter. I brought it home. It is still one of my absolute favorites and one I’ll always adore.
The Colt Python, along with the rest of the Snake series of revolvers, has gone in and out of production for decades. The most recent generation debuted in 2020. Since then, the Python, Anaconda, BOA, Cobra, King Cobra, Viper, Kodiak, and Grizzly have all been introduced. That’s quite an impressive lineup.
Of them all, the Colt Grizzly caught my eye. It’s based on the Python but with a few upgrades that make it one heck of a shooter. But does it live up to the standards of my dear grail Python? Let’s find out.
SPECS
Before moving on to my own thoughts on it and whether I think this is a worthy revolver, I’ll cover the specs and features that help it stand out.
The standard specs are as follows:
- Model(s): Colt Grizzly
- Caliber: 357 Magnum
- Capacity: 6
- Operation: DA/SA
- Sights: Red Ramp Front & Adjustable Target Rear
- Optic Cut: Does Accept a Colt Factory Optic Plate
- Barrel Length: 6” (4.25” also available)
- Grips: Hogue OverMolded Rubber Grips
- Weight: 41.1 oz.
- Price: $1,799
FEATURES
The Colt Grizzly revives one of Colt’s lesser-known revolvers, updating a model that originally had only a brief run through the Colt Custom Shop (only 999 built!). While the original featured a King Cobra frame with a 6-inch Python barrel, this new version offers enthusiasts the option of a 4.25” or 6” model, making it better suited for backcountry carry.
Like the Python, it is chambered in .357 Magnum, which means .38 Special is also appropriate. The Grizzly features a smooth, unfluted six-round cylinder housed in a polished stainless-steel frame. A matte-finished top rib reduces glare, while the red ramp front sight and fully adjustable target rear sight provide a clear, precise sight picture.
Like the Python, the Grizzly uses a full-lug design, which helps reduce recoil and keep shots on target.
The Grizzly was built for the outdoorsman (and for fending off…well, grizzlies). It pairs its stainless-steel construction with Hogue OverMolded rubber grips that absorb recoil, improving comfort during extended shooting sessions. The double-action/single-action revolver has a double-action trigger pull of 7 to 9.5 pounds and weighs 41.1 ounces unloaded, providing enough mass to help tame full-power .357 Magnum loads.
But the real showstopper is the six ports at the muzzle end of the barrel. These, as I’ll note later, are what attracted me to this wheel gun.
BUILT FOR BACKWOODS CARRY
Unlike the Python, the Grizzly was built as a backwoods companion. I’d describe it as more rugged and utilitarian-looking than a standard Python. The Hogue grips and unfluted cylinder reinforce that look.
Since this is a carry piece, I wanted to pair it with a readily available holster. I went with the Bianchi Thumbsnap Suede Lined Belt Holster I found at my local gun shop.
This leather holster rides on the belt and is perfect for a hike or a hunt. I find the leather quality and stitching to be quite good. You will need to modify the holster if you plan to run a red dot with the factory Colt optic plate. (My colleague, Chris Rhodes, explains how to convert your holster here.)
AT THE RANGE
Most of my range time was spent with a random assortment of remanufactured 38 SPL. I got a whole bunch of it pre-COVID at a screaming deal, so that’s what I used. The plus side – the lots I purchased primarily used nickel cases.
There were no issues with the ammo: this revolver was a dream to shoot. My father tagged along and was equally impressed. We shot with open sights from 10 to 15 yards, and the accuracy was exceptional. It’s always a treat to be out with a good-shooting wheel gun.
I was initially concerned about the trigger. It’s redesigned compared to the OG Python, but any concerns were quickly washed away after a cylinder or two. I was able to stage the trigger like any other revolver I own, which also helped with accuracy. Honestly, I don’t have any complaints.
I had only a limited supply of .357 Magnum on hand, so I was able to shoot only a couple of cylinders’ worth. That said, the Hogue grip, barrel porting, and the gun’s overall heft really tamed full-house magnum loads, making it quite pleasant.
I mentioned earlier that you can add an optic plate to the Grizzly. The one Colt offers is RMSc-compatible. I mounted a Vortex Defender CCW Enclosed on it for another project, but I wanted to give you all a sneak peek. The plate replaces the rear sight and is easy to swap out. This turns it into a capable target pistol as well as a backwoods carry gun.
ZOOMING OUT
Overall, I’m impressed with the Grizzly. While it doesn’t have the panache of the original Python, it still feels right at home in hand or on the hip.
The Grizzly’s accuracy and recoil reduction are what really set it apart. The addition of an optic plate further expands the wheel gun’s capabilities. It’s definitely an investment in price, but I think it’s well worth it.
If you’re looking for a revolver that bridges classic Colt heritage and modern performance, the Grizzly is hard to overlook. It may not replace my beloved Python as my personal grail gun, but the Grizzly has certainly earned a permanent place alongside it in the safe.
