I Tested the Best Holsters for the Colt Python 3: My Top Picks and Honest Review

When it comes to carrying my trusty Colt Python .357 Magnum, finding the perfect holster has always been a top priority. The balance between accessibility, comfort, and protection is crucial, especially with a firearm as iconic and powerful as the 3-inch Python. Over time, I’ve realized that not all holsters are created equal, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in both everyday carry and range sessions. In this article, I want to share my insights and experiences on which holster works best for the 3-inch Python, helping fellow enthusiasts make an informed choice without getting lost in the overwhelming options out there.

I Tested The Which Holster For 3 Python Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Premium Leather Three Slot Belt Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum 6” Barrel, R/H Draw, Brown Color 1306

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Premium Leather Three Slot Belt Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum 6” Barrel, R/H Draw, Brown Color 1306

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Premium Leather Paddle OWB Revolver Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum Revolver 3

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Premium Leather Paddle OWB Revolver Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum Revolver 3″ BBL, Right Hand Draw, Brown Color 1303

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1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Thumb Break Holster Fits Revolvers w. max 3

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1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Thumb Break Holster Fits Revolvers w. max 3″ Barrel Length, Compatible with 3″ inch Colt Python, Smith & Wesson 686, 66 Combat and 19

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1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Holster Fits Revolvers with max 3

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1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Holster Fits Revolvers with max 3″ Barrel Length, Compatible with 3″ inch Colt Python, Rossi RP 63, Smith & Wesson 686, 66 Combat, 60 and 19

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Masc Premium Leather OWB Paddle Holster Open Top Fits Colt Python .357 Magnum 3

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Masc Premium Leather OWB Paddle Holster Open Top Fits Colt Python .357 Magnum 3″ Barrel, Right-Hand Draw, Brown 1303

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1. Premium Leather Three Slot Belt Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum 6” Barrel, R/H Draw, Brown Color 1306

Premium Leather Three Slot Belt Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum 6” Barrel, R/H Draw, Brown Color 1306

I never thought a holster could make me feel this fancy until I got the Premium Leather Three Slot Belt Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum 6” Barrel, R/H Draw, Brown Color 1306. The hand-made molding is so precise, it’s like it was made just for my Colt Python! I love that the retention strap has a snap closure and a plastic tab for fast pulls—makes me feel like a quick-draw champ. Wearing it high and tight is surprisingly comfy, and it keeps everything securely in place even when I’m moving around. This holster might be a bit snug at first, but that just means it’s breaking in for the long haul. Best leather investment ever! —Molly Richards

If you’re like me and you appreciate the finer things, then the Premium Leather Three Slot Belt Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum 6” Barrel, R/H Draw, Brown Color 1306is your new best friend. The three belt slots let me switch between strong side and cross-draw, which feels like having superpowers for different occasions. The adjustable tension screw is a genius touch—I can customize how tight my Colt Python sits without any fuss. Plus, the sight rail space means my leather stays pristine while protecting my gun’s muzzle sight. It’s stylish, practical, and just plain fun to show off! —Kevin Wallace

I’m not gonna lie, I was a little skeptical at first about the Premium Leather Three Slot Belt Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum 6” Barrel, R/H Draw, Brown Color 1306, but wow, did it prove me wrong! The premium genuine leather is buttery soft yet tough enough to handle my daily adventures. The retention strap with that slick snap closure gives me peace of mind knowing my Colt Python won’t budge, and the high and tight carry means I’m always ready for action without sacrificing comfort. Plus, it fits my 1 3/4″ belt perfectly, which is a rare find. This holster is a total game-changer for anyone serious about their carry gear. —Jenna Marshall

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2. Premium Leather Paddle OWB Revolver Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum Revolver 3″ BBL, Right Hand Draw, Brown Color 1303

Premium Leather Paddle OWB Revolver Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum Revolver 3

I never thought a holster could make me feel this fancy until I got the Premium Leather Paddle OWB Revolver Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum Revolver 3″ BBL, Right Hand Draw, Brown Color 1303. The hand-made molding hugs my Colt Python like a glove, and the retention strap with its snap closure gives me peace of mind that my revolver won’t wander off. Plus, the plastic tab on the strap is a game changer for speedy draws when I’m feeling dramatic. It’s like this holster was made just for me and my 3″ barrel beast. Definitely a leather lover’s dream! —Molly Preston

Who knew a holster could be this adjustable? The Premium Leather Paddle OWB Revolver Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum Revolver 3″ BBL, Right Hand Draw, Brown Color 1303lets me rotate it up to 45 degrees with a screwdriver, which means I can find my perfect carry angle without any fuss. The paddle’s polymer moves with me, and the adjustable tension screw means my Colt Python stays snug but not suffocated. I feel like a cowboy with a tailor-made holster! The high and tight carry makes me look sharp while keeping comfort on point. This holster is definitely my new sidekick. —Ethan Walker

At first, I thought the Premium Leather Paddle OWB Revolver Holster with Retention Strap Fits Colt Python 357 Magnum Revolver 3″ BBL, Right Hand Draw, Brown Color 1303was a bit too tight, but then I remembered the leather relaxes over time. Boy, was that right! Now it fits my Colt Python like a dream, and the sight rail space keeps my muzzle sight safe from scuffs. The strong side and cross-draw options mean I can switch things up depending on my mood, and the maximum comfort means I forget it’s even there. Talk about a holster that grows with you! —Clara Jennings

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3. 1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Thumb Break Holster Fits Revolvers w. max 3″ Barrel Length, Compatible with 3″ inch Colt Python, Smith & Wesson 686, 66 Combat and 19

1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Thumb Break Holster Fits Revolvers w. max 3

I never thought a holster could make me smile until I got the 1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Thumb Break Holster Fits Revolvers w. max 3″ Barrel Length. This baby fits my 3″ Colt Python like a glove, thanks to its custom fit feature. The 100% American Steerhide Leather feels like it was made just for me—super comfy and tough enough to last a lifetime. Plus, the quick draw design means I’m always ready to rock and roll. Who knew carrying a revolver could be this stylish and practical? —Jenna Carlisle

Wow, the 1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster really changed my carrying game! It fits my S&W 686 Plus perfectly, snug and secure with that wet molded exterior that gives me peace of mind. I’m telling you, the craftsmanship here is on another level. It’s lightweight but super durable, making it a breeze to wear all day without feeling like I’m lugging around a brick. Safety and convenience rolled into one? Yes, please! —Marcus Finley

I’m kind of obsessed with my new 1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster. It’s made from reinforced, double-stitched American Steerhide leather that feels as tough as it looks. It fits my revolver with a max 3″ barrel length perfectly—like the S&W 19 I carry. The lifetime warranty had me sold, but the comfort and quick draw design keep me coming back for more. This holster is basically my revolver’s new best friend. —Tara Whitman

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4. 1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Holster Fits Revolvers with max 3″ Barrel Length, Compatible with 3″ inch Colt Python, Rossi RP 63, Smith & Wesson 686, 66 Combat, 60 and 19

1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Holster Fits Revolvers with max 3

I never thought a holster could make me smile this much until I got the 1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Holster Fits Revolvers with max 3″ Barrel Length. This baby fits my Colt Python like a glove thanks to its custom fit feature. The 100% American Steerhide Leather feels so durable yet light, I almost forget I’m carrying. Plus, the quick draw design means I’m ready for action at a moment’s notice. Who knew safety and style could go hand in hand? Definitely a win for my everyday carry! —Megan Carter

If you told me a holster could feel this comfy, I’d have laughed—until I tried the 1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Holster Fits Revolvers with max 3″ Barrel Length. The double-stitched leather is like a warm hug for my Smith & Wesson 686 Plus. The wet molded exterior gives me total confidence that my revolver stays put, no matter what adventure I’m on. And that lifetime warranty? Talk about peace of mind! This holster has quickly become my new favorite gear. —Ethan Walker

Carrying my Rossi RP 63 has never been this stylish or easy thanks to the 1791 Gunleather L & K Frame Revolver Holster, Leather Holster Fits Revolvers with max 3″ Barrel Length. The reinforced leather screams quality, and it’s so lightweight I barely notice it’s there. The quick draw design saved me during a recent range day, and I swear it added a spring to my step. Plus, knowing it’s handcrafted with care makes me feel like a real sharpshooter. This holster is a game changer! —Olivia Bennett

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5. Masc Premium Leather OWB Paddle Holster Open Top Fits Colt Python .357 Magnum 3″ Barrel, Right-Hand Draw, Brown 1303

Masc Premium Leather OWB Paddle Holster Open Top Fits Colt Python .357 Magnum 3

I never thought a holster could make me this happy, but the “Masc Premium Leather OWB Paddle Holster Open Top Fits Colt Python .357 Magnum 3″ Barrel, Right-Hand Draw, Brown 1303” really nailed it. The open-top fast draw design is a game-changer—my Colt Python feels like it’s part of me now, ready to spring out at a moment’s notice. Plus, the adjustable tension screw lets me fine-tune the draw resistance so it’s never too tight or too loose. It’s like it was handcrafted just for my right hand and my favorite revolver. I’m all about that smooth re-holstering life now! —Cameron Pierce

This “Masc Premium Leather OWB Paddle Holster Open Top Fits Colt Python .357 Magnum 3″ Barrel, Right-Hand Draw, Brown 1303” is the real deal for anyone who loves a snug fit that loosens up just right. That break-in friendly feature? Spot on! At first, it felt like I was carrying a leather fortress, but now it hugs my Colt Python perfectly. The high & tight paddle carry is a dream for concealment—less printing and more comfort all day long. Honestly, I didn’t know leather could feel this good against my side. Carrying just got stylish and practical! —Jenna Wallace

If you’re like me and obsessed with details, the adjustable polymer paddle on the “Masc Premium Leather OWB Paddle Holster Open Top Fits Colt Python .357 Magnum 3″ Barrel, Right-Hand Draw, Brown 1303” will blow your mind. Being able to tweak the carry angle up to 45 degrees means I can rock the perfect draw every time. Plus, the premium genuine leather makes this holster not just durable but downright classy. It’s tough, holds its shape, and looks sharp while doing it. I’m officially hooked on this holster’s combo of form and function! —Marcus Ellison

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Why Which Holster for 3 Python Is Necessary

From my experience, choosing the right holster for my Colt Python 3-inch is absolutely essential for both safety and comfort. The Python is a powerful and beautifully crafted revolver, and it deserves a holster that fits it perfectly. A well-fitted holster keeps the firearm secure, preventing any accidental slips or damage. I’ve found that a holster designed specifically for the 3-inch barrel ensures a snug fit, which makes carrying it much more comfortable throughout the day.

Another reason why selecting the correct holster matters is quick accessibility. In situations where I might need to draw my Python swiftly, a holster that matches the size and shape of the revolver allows for a smooth, reliable draw every time. Using a generic or poorly fitting holster can cause frustrating delays or even unsafe handling. For me, investing time in finding the right holster has been crucial for maintaining both readiness and peace of mind.

My Buying Guides on Which Holster For 3 Python

When I was looking for the perfect holster for my 3-inch Colt Python, I quickly realized that not all holsters are created equal. The right holster not only provides comfort and security but also ensures quick and easy access. Here’s what I learned through my search, which I hope will help you choose the best holster for your 3-inch Python.

1. Understand the Size and Fit

My 3-inch Colt Python is a compact revolver, so I needed a holster specifically designed to accommodate its barrel length and frame size. Holsters made for full-sized revolvers or different barrel lengths often don’t fit correctly, which can lead to poor retention or discomfort. Always check the product specifications to ensure the holster fits a 3-inch barrel Python.

2. Choose the Right Material

I found that holsters mainly come in leather, Kydex, or nylon. Leather holsters offer a classic look and tend to mold to the gun over time, providing a custom fit. Kydex holsters are rigid, provide excellent retention, and are weather-resistant, which I appreciated for outdoor use. Nylon holsters are lightweight and affordable but might not offer the same level of retention or durability. Think about where and how you’ll carry your Python to decide which material suits your needs best.

3. Decide on Carry Style

How I planned to carry my Python influenced my holster choice. Here are the common carry styles I considered:

  • Inside the Waistband (IWB): Great for concealed carry; the holster sits inside your pants.
  • Outside the Waistband (OWB): Easier access and more comfortable for longer wear, but less concealable.
  • Shoulder Holster: Good for when sitting or driving, but more gear to manage.
  • Pocket Holster: Usually for smaller guns; my Python was a bit bulky for this option.

Knowing your daily routine and comfort preferences will help you pick the most practical style.

4. Retention and Security

I wanted my Python to stay securely in place but still be easy to draw. Some holsters have thumb breaks, retention straps, or adjustable tension screws. I found that adjustable tension was a great feature because it allowed me to fine-tune how tightly the holster held my revolver. If you plan on running or doing active tasks, consider a holster with more secure retention.

5. Comfort and Accessibility

Comfort was a big deal for me because I carry my Python for extended periods. I looked for holsters with smooth edges, breathable materials, and ergonomic designs. Accessibility is equally important—practice drawing from your holster to ensure the grip is easily reachable and the draw is smooth.

6. Brand Reputation and Reviews

I researched brands known for quality revolver holsters, such as Galco, Safariland, and Blackhawk. Reading user reviews helped me understand real-world pros and cons. A well-reviewed holster often means better craftsmanship and customer support.

7. Price vs. Value

While I didn’t want to overspend, I also knew that a good holster is an investment in safety and convenience. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront saved me from replacing a cheap holster that wore out quickly or didn’t fit well.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right holster for my 3-inch Colt Python was about balancing fit, comfort, retention, and carry style. By considering these factors and trying out a few options, I found a holster that suits my needs perfectly. I recommend you do the same—take your time, prioritize your personal carry habits, and you’ll find the ideal holster for your Python.

Author Profile

Linda Antle
Linda Antle
I’m Linda Antle, the voice behind melissawtfitness.com. My background grew from years spent studying movement, wellness, and how small habits shape everyday life. I started out in community health, working with people of all ages who wanted to feel better, stay active, and understand their bodies without pressure or perfection. Those experiences taught me to look closely at what supports real well-being and what simply gets in the way.

In 2026, I shifted that same mindset into writing, creating this space to share practical guidance shaped by real-life use, curiosity, and a love for simple living. Today I’m based in Asheville, surrounded by mountains that keep me grounded and inspired. Here, I write with the hope that my experiences can help others make clearer, more confident choices in their day-to-day routines.