Adam Scepaniak 05.17.24
The NRA Annual Meetings (NRAAM) have begun and Colt introduced a flood of new models with the Colt Grizzly, Kodiak, Viper, and 8″ Python models. While the 8″ Python might not be a startling development, the other models extremely custom, short-run offerings throughout Colt’s storied history so it is very surprising to see Colt announce the re-birth of these sought-after revolvers. Let’s jump right in and get you acquainted with all of them!
Colt Coverage on AllOutdoor
Colt Viper .357 Magnum – MSRP $999
The original Colt Viper was only produced during 1977 with a 4″ barrel and an alloy frame. An incredibly small, inconsequential grouping of them were also produced in 1993 as “clean up” guns using leftover parts. The new Colt Viper is going to don either a 3″ or 4.25″ barrel and a much stronger frame touting stainless steel. For all of the Colt collectors in the room, this will be a Must-Have once Colt starts shipping the new Colt Viper.
- Capacity: 6 Rounds
- Frame Material: Stainless Steel
- Barrel: 3″ or 4.25″ w/ a 1 in 14” Left-Hand Twist & 6-Groove Rifling
- Sights: Black Ramp Front & U-Notch Rear
- Action: Double-Action/Single-Action
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Grips: Traditional Walnut
- Trigger Pull (Double-Action): 7 – 9.5 Lb
- Unloaded Weight: 26.9 Oz
West Hartford, CT – May 17th, 2024 – Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC unveils the Colt Viper, designed to meet the needs of contemporary shooters seeking a streamlined carry option.
This revolver boasts a distinctive 1/2 lug barrel design, meticulously engineered to reduce weight without compromising on performance, thereby enhancing concealability for everyday carry. Forged from stainless steel, the Colt Viper ensures enduring strength, promising an impressive shooting experience with unwavering reliability. Its one-piece barrel, featuring a recessed target crown, guarantees pinpoint accuracy and steadfast performance in every shot.
The Colt Viper embodies precision engineering and reliability, offering shooters a compact yet powerful companion for every day, every shot.
Colt Grizzly .357 Magnum – MSRP $1,599
Next up, is the Colt Grizzly! Originally, the Colt Grizzly was manufactured by the Colt Custom Shop using a King Cobra frame with a Python barrel and shipped in a blue box from 1994 – 1995. That 2 year window of a 6″ .357 Magnum makes it difficult for any Colt collector to fill out their collection, but with the re-introduction of the Colt Grizzly – this time in a 4″ barrel – you have the opportunity to own a piece of Colt history once again.
- Capacity: 6 Rounds
- Frame Material: Stainless Steel
- Barrel: 4″ w/ a 1 in 14” Left-Hand Twist & 6-Groove Rifling
- Sights: Red Ramp Front & Target Rear with Adjustment for Windage & Elevation
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Action: Double-Action/Single-Action
- Grips: Hogue® OverMolded Rubber Grips
- Trigger Pull (Double-Action): 7 – 9.5 Lb
- Unloaded Weight: 41.1 Oz
West Hartford, CT – May 17th, 2024 – Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC announces the release of the Colt Grizzly, blending timeless craftsmanship with modern enhancements tailored to meet the demands of the modern hunter for all back country expeditions.
The stainless-steel frame of the Colt Grizzly features a polished finish complemented by a matte surface on the top rib, ensuring optimal sight acquisition. The smooth, unfluted 6-round cylinder is chambered for 357 Magnum and accommodates 38 Special cartridges, offering versatility with recoil-absorbing Hogue® OverMolded rubber grips.
Crafted with precision and passion, the Colt Grizzly instills confidence in every hunter’s journey, embodying the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of excellence.
Colt Kodiak .44 Magnum – MSRP $1,599
Just the name “Colt Kodiak” sounds monstrous in nature, and this revolver truly is. The Colt Kodiak of old was built on an Anaconda frame with the outline of bear’s footprint on left side of barrel (and the bear paw print will be on the new ones as well). Previously chambered in both .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum, the new Colt Kodiaks will – initially – only be chambered in .44 Magnum.
- Capacity: 6 Rounds
- Frame Material: Stainless Steel
- Finish: Stainless Steel
- Grips: Hogue® Over-Molded Rubber Grips
- Barrel: “4 w/ a 1 in 20” Left-Hand Twist & 6-Groove Rifling
- Action: Double-Action/Single-Action
- Trigger Pull (Double-Action): 7 – 9.5 Lb
- Sights: Red Ramp Front & Target Rear with Adjustment for Windage & Elevation
- Unloaded Weight: 48.5 Oz
West Hartford, CT – May 17th, 2024 – Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC announces the debut of the Colt Kodiak revolver in 44 Magnum. Built tough to handle the rugged demands of the wild, the Colt Kodiak seamlessly merges classic style with cutting-edge features, delivering an unmatched shooting experience for hunters alike.
Its ergonomic design, complete with recoil-absorbing Hogue® OverMolded grips, ensure comfort and stability; these grips are interchangeable with Colt Python and Anaconda models, providing versatility in customization.
The Colt Kodiak boasts a one-piece full lug, ventilated rib stainless steel barrel, which is ported to enhance muzzle control promoting shooting stability and follow-up accuracy, even in the most vigorous hunting conditions.
Colt 8” Python .357 Magnum – MSRP: $1,299 Rubber Grips | MSRP: $1,499 Walnut Grips
The least “historical” of the new offerings is the line extension of the Colt Python, and it now being offered in an 8″ barrel. For those who like to hunt with their revolvers, this could become a prime candidate for many buyers because of the already legendary performance and accuracy that the Python is known for. Now, simply in a longer barrel for anyone who really wants to reach out and touch something.
- Frame Material & Construction: Stainless Steel
- Barrel: 8″ w/ a 1 in 14” Left-Hand Twist & 6-Groove Rifling
- Sights: Red Ramp Front & Target Rear with Adjustment for Windage & Elevation
- Action: Double-Action/Single-Action
- Finish: Bead Blast-Matte | Stainless Steel
- Grips: Hogue ® OverMolded Rubber | Walnut Target Grips with Colt Medallion
- Height: 5.5”
- Overall Length: 13.5”
- Width: 1.55”
- Weight: 51 Oz
- Capacity: 6 Rounds
West Hartford, CT – May 17th, 2024 – Colt’s Manufacturing Company LLC proudly announces its addition of the 8” Python to the iconic line of revolvers. The new 8” Python is available in matte stainless or stainless steel finishes. The inclusion of the 8” Python series now brings the family to seven unique revolvers, all chambered for .357 Magnum, with barrel lengths varying from 2.5” to 8”. The addition of the 8” model introduces a new look to the collection, enhancing its versatility.
The double-action 8” Python revolver boasts a six-round capacity, user-interchangeable red ramp front sights, and adjustable target rear sights. With 30% more steel beneath the rear sight, this revolver offers a stronger and more robust shooting experience.
This longer barrel variant not only provides enhanced accuracy and sight radius for target shooting but also expands the Python lineup’s appeal to collectors and enthusiasts seeking a classic yet distinctive revolver. The matte stainless and semi-bright steel finishes offer a modern aesthetic while retaining the Python’s timeless allure. Whether for sport shooting, personal defense, or collection purposes, the 8” Python exemplifies Colt’s legacy of craftsmanship and performance in revolver manufacturing.
It is only Day #1 of the NRA Annual Meetings (NRAAM) and a lot of excitement has already occurred courtesy of Colt. With the re-birth of the Colt Viper .357 Magnum, Colt Grizzly .357 Magnum, Colt Kodiak .44 Magnum, and a line extension through the Colt 8″ Python, they will assuredly be the talk of the NRA Annual Meetings (NRAAM) in the days to come. As always, let us know all of your thoughts about Colt in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback.
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