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I discovered my Python's cylinder isn't as long as my 686. I was at the range and the cylinder wouldn't turn and found one cartridge was too long and not by much. I had my 686 with me and the cartridge was fine in it. The cartridge had a 158gr plated SWC (Xtreme bullets). I seated the bullet deeper to the top of the cannelure after I got home, and it was ok.
Dave

Dave ,

Sorry to hear of your Python issues..

From my very limited experience with the new editions ....I have been a little disappointed.

cisco, I used my caliper to measure the cylinder. The 686 measures 1.625" and the Python 1.560".

I keep a page in my notebook with the cylinder length measurements for my revolvers. Comes in handy occasionally.

Cylinder lengths vary its the chamber specs that count

Rick

Pythons have always had shorter cylinders same as smith model 27s or 28s. I forgot one time and loaded a couple hundred rounds to burn through my python but when at the range I was very disappointed as they were too long for my python lol.

My loads probably wouldn't work in the Python either. I load to 1.600" in my Security Six.

I keep dummy cartridges for each revolver and set the seating, and taper crimp die's per each. The revolver cylinder length is critical for shooting heavy to diameter bullets or changing from a revolver to a lever action rifle, if you want to function revolver loads through your rifle also. Best to use a short revolver cylinder setting. Only as an example, I use the Python dummy 200 load to set my 94c cartridge OAL with 200 grain bullets. They all function.

It's hard to beat a good 586/686. Python's are sexy, but.

I don't tend to use bullets heavier than 158gr in .357 with a 140gr JHP being my "go everywhere, do anything load. Out in the west, I have become a big fan of the 125gr JHP when I used to hate that load. But for 75-100 yard shots on Coyotes, you just can't beat it. I sold off my 173gr Keith bullet mold, just didn't find it very useful. For game the size of black bear or deer in a .357 I prefer JHP's as I wasn't impressed with the 173gr Keith on bear at all. If I need more bullet, I would likely just opt for more gun.