{"id":205582,"date":"2024-09-14T15:10:40","date_gmt":"2024-09-14T20:10:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/?p=205582"},"modified":"2024-09-15T15:25:17","modified_gmt":"2024-09-15T20:25:17","slug":"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\/","title":{"rendered":"The Colt Viper &#8211; The Newest Snake"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-1-1-1024x768.jpeg\" alt=\"The Colt Viper revolver resting on a blue carry case\" class=\"wp-image-205583\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-1-1-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-1-1-400x300.jpeg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-1-1-150x113.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-1-1-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-1-1-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-1-1-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-estimated-reading-time yoast-reading-time__wrapper\"><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-icon=\"clock\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" style=\"display:inline-block;vertical-align:-0.1em\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"2\" d=\"M12 8v4l3 3m6-3a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__spacer\" style=\"display:inline-block;width:1em\"><\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__descriptive-text\">Estimated reading time: <\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__reading-time\">14<\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__time-unit\"> minutes<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t look now but it seems that Colt Firearms is determined to take over the revolver market! In the past four years, they have launched a new generation of wheelguns starting with the Python in 2020. Current offerings include the Cobra, King Cobra, Python, and Anaconda. The newest snake to be resurrected. is the Viper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>Table of contents<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#h-the-new-heavy-weight-viper\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" data-level=\"2\">The New Heavy-Weight Viper<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-features\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" data-level=\"2\">Features<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-stocks-and-sights\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" data-level=\"2\">Stocks and Sights<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-range-time-with-the-viper\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" data-level=\"2\">Range Time With the Viper<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-performance\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" data-level=\"2\">Performance<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-colt-viper-accuracy\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" data-level=\"2\">Colt Viper Accuracy<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-duty-ammunition-testing\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" data-level=\"2\">Duty Ammunition Testing<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-critical-defense\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" data-level=\"3\">Critical Defense<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-federal-120-gr-punch\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" data-level=\"3\">Federal 120 gr. Punch<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-final-thoughts-on-the-colt-viper\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" data-level=\"2\">Final Thoughts On the Colt Viper<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Based on the D-size frame, the original Viper was only made in 1977, with a reported production of only 4,000 guns. Those guns were all made on an alloy frame, as were the Colt Cobras. Unfortunately, they were quickly discontinued and now bring collector\u2019s prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-new-heavy-weight-viper\">The New Heavy-Weight Viper<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Introduced in May of 2024, the Viper shares the same stainless steel construction and frame as the King Cobra. Both are D-size frames, have a six-shot capacity, and are chambered in .357 Magnum. The Colt Viper is available in either a 4.25\u201d or a 3\u201d barrel. As with the other \u201cSnake\u201d guns, the Viper makes extensive use of modern manufacturing technology that allows parts to be made with higher tolerances. This eliminates most of the hand fitting, thus improving quality without increasing labor costs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The main difference between the Viper and the King Cobra is the barrel profile. Instead of a full underlug, the Viper has a \u201chalf-lug\u201d that reduces weight and bulk. It is a very sleek little pistol.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unboxing our test pistol, I was impressed with the fit and finish that Colt continues to produce. The stainless frame and barrel are evenly polished to an almost nickel finish. The pistol is void of any machine marks or external flaws in the finish. The top strap and top of the barrel have a matte finish to reduce glare for an improved sight picture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-features\">Features<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-2-1-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"unique trigger guard on a Colt revolver\" class=\"wp-image-205584\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-2-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-2-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-2-1-113x150.jpeg 113w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-2-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-2-1-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-2-1-scaled.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The uniquely designed trigger guard allows for a longer trigger that allows a lighter action.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-3-1-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Wooden stock on the Colt Viper\" class=\"wp-image-205585\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-3-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-3-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-3-1-113x150.jpeg 113w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-3-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-3-1-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-3-1-scaled.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The stocks fill the sinus properly and provide a solid purchase.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-4--768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Full wooden grip of revolver on top of green game bag\" class=\"wp-image-205586\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-4--768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-4--225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-4--113x150.jpeg 113w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-4--1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-4--1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-4--scaled.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Viper\u2019s stocks extend below the frame and provide a full grip for most shooters.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Some people have commented on the oddly shaped trigger guard. Colt explained that it allows for a longer trigger to improve the pistol\u2019s action. I appreciated that the Viper comes with a smooth face trigger instead of the serrated triggers found on the Python and the Anaconda. The edges of the trigger are nicely radiused and the trigger measures approximately 7\/32\u201d at the bottom. Even though the Viper uses a leaf spring, the double action has minimal stacking. Using my Lyman Electronic Trigger gauge, I found the Viper averaged a 9 lb. double action and a 3 lb. 12 oz. single action. The pull was smooth without any grit or play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-stocks-and-sights\">Stocks and Sights<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The stocks on the Viper extend past the frame and provide a full gripping surface for most shooters. They fit the frame relatively well and fill the sinus behind the trigger guard to reduce \u201cknuckle bump.\u201d&nbsp; The checkering and contour at the top of the stocks are reminiscent of the 1980s Detective Specials and Cobras. The sides are nicely checkered and the grain is attractive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Viper\u2019s sights consist of a fixed square notch rear and black serrated front ramp. As with other Colt revolvers, the front sight is retained by a single set screw and is easily replaced by the user. This feature was key during our evaluation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-5-1-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Front and rear iron sights on a self-defense revolver\" class=\"wp-image-205587\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-5-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-5-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-5-1-113x150.jpeg 113w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-5-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-5-1-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-5-1-scaled.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The rear sight is a fixed square notch. While the top strap has a matte finish, the polished surface on the rear of the frame presented a challenge in sunlight.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-6-1-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Serrated black front sight on Colt revolver\" class=\"wp-image-205588\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-6-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-6-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-6-1-113x150.jpeg 113w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-6-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-6-1-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-6-1-scaled.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The factory front sight is a serrated black ramp. It is easily replaced by the user.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-range-time-with-the-viper\">Range Time With the Viper<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We hit the range with an assortment of ammunition that ranged from a Hornady\u2019s Critical Defense Lite 90 gr. FTX .38 Special to a full-blown Hornady .357 Magnum 125 gr. load. For formal testing, I selected the following loads that I felt were the most applicable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><\/td><td colspan=\"5\"><strong>Colt Viper Range Testing<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\"><strong>Manufacturer<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Caliber<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Bullet<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Average<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Accuracy<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\">Hornady Critical Defense Lite<\/td><td>.38 Special<\/td><td>90 gr. FTX<\/td><td>1,026 fps<\/td><td>1.5\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\">Hornady Critical Defense<\/td><td>.38 Special<\/td><td>110 gr. FTX<\/td><td>979 fps<\/td><td>.75\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\">Federal Punch<\/td><td>.38 Special +P<\/td><td>120 gr. JHP<\/td><td>1,053 fps<\/td><td>1.9\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\">Hornady Critical Defense<\/td><td>.357 Magnum<\/td><td>125 FTX<\/td><td>1,356 fps<\/td><td>2.75\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"6\">Velocity measured at the muzzle with a Garmin Xero C-1 Pro Chronograph<\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"6\">Accuracy fire off-hand at 10 yards<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-7-1-1024x768.jpeg\" alt=\"Colt Viper at the range with Hornady Critical Defense and Federal Punch\" class=\"wp-image-205589\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-7-1-1024x768.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-7-1-400x300.jpeg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-7-1-150x113.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-7-1-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-7-1-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-7-1-2048x1536.jpeg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">We tested the Viper with four popular personal defense loads. Several of the results were surprising.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Hornady Critical Defense Lite is designed to have reduced recoil by using a lighter projectile that is driven at a higher velocity. Recoil was reasonably mild but the loads shot approximately 3\u201d high at 10 yards. The Critical Duty 110 gr. FTX is a proven performer that finds the sweet spot between bullet weight and velocity. Federal\u2019s Punch .38 +P load features a 120-grain jacketed hollow point. While a little hot, Punch had shown consistent performance in all my tests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Viper handled all, but the .357 Magnum load, well.&nbsp; Recoil and muzzle flip was pretty violent and follow-up shots were difficult. I certainly could not have made the par times on a 5x5x5 drill. (5 shots\/5 seconds\/5 yards shot on a B-8 bullseye target. Magnum loads are just brutal and I would not recommend them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-8-1-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"brass ejecting from Colt Viper revolver\" class=\"wp-image-205590\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-8-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-8-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-8-1-113x150.jpeg 113w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-8-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-8-1-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-8-1-scaled.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The factory stocks routinely blocked the clean ejection of spent brass. This is a problem that should be corrected.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-performance\">Performance<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Working on the range brought out two issues with the Viper. The first is that the left stock panel routinely prevents a clean ejection of all six empty cases. That is a significant issue with a personal defense revolver. I anticipated that the contour of the stocks, large at the base and narrowing at the top strap, would create an issue with recoil control. I found this issue with the three Pythons I have tested. I was pleasantly surprised that I did not have that issue with the Viper. That was, in part, due to the sharper contour to the bottom of the stocks and how the stocks fill the sinus behind the trigger guard. However, the reloading issue needs to be corrected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The other issue I found was that I had extreme difficulty finding the front sight, especially when shooting on a black B-8 target. In bright sun, this was exasperated by the glare from the rear of the frame, below the rear sight aperture. Fortunately, this was an easy fix. I contacted my good friend John Harrison, of Harrison Design. John has a complete line of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.harrisoncustom.com\/hd-026-g-front-night-sight\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\">Harrison Design Snake Sights<\/a> for all of the Colt double action Snake revolvers. John sent me an improved ramp front sight blade that had a green Ameriglo tritium lamp and a Lumi-green ring.&nbsp; This single change significantly improved my performance with the Viper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-9-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"yellow Harrison Design poster\" class=\"wp-image-205591\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-9-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-9-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-9-113x150.jpeg 113w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-9-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-9-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-9-scaled.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.harrisoncustom.com\/snake-sights-for-colt-da-revolvers\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\">Harrison Design<\/a> offers a complete line of sights for Colt\u2019s snake guns.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-10-1-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Harrison front sight upgrade on Colt revolver\" class=\"wp-image-205592\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-10-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-10-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-10-1-113x150.jpeg 113w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-10-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-10-1-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-10-1-scaled.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The front sight blade on the Viper is easily replaced by loosening the set screw just above the muzzle. Harrison provides the proper wrench with the replacement front sight.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-11-1-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Harrison front sight on Colt Viper\" class=\"wp-image-205593\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-11-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-11-1-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-11-1-113x150.jpeg 113w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-11-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-11-1-1536x2048.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-11-1-scaled.jpeg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The new front sight blade made a significant difference. The combination of the Lumi-green ring and the tritium lamp was very effective.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-colt-viper-accuracy\">Colt Viper Accuracy<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>I shot the HiTs Super Snubby Test which consists of 5 rounds, fired from 3, 5, and 10 yards respectively. Par time for each string of fire is 3 seconds, 5 seconds, and 8 seconds respectively. The 3-yard line is fired using the strong hand only, so 5 shots in 3 seconds is spicy. The drill is normally shot on a B-8 repair center and scored using the ring values on the target. However, I did not have any B-8 targets so I shot it on a NRA qualification target. I shot the test using <a href=\"https:\/\/highdesertcartridge.com\/product\/38-special-148-gr-hollow-base-wadcutter\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\">High Desert Cartridge Company&#8217;s plated 148 grain wadcutter.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Later, I superimposed the target on a B-8, to get a proper score. I shot a 142\/150 with three X-ring hits. I did bust the 3-yard line time by .62 seconds.&nbsp; That penalty reduced my score by 2 points giving me a 140, or 93%. I only shot the drill one time. I can say that I could not have achieved this score without the Harrison front sight blade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"766\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-12-1-766x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"Colt Viper revolver next to paper NRA target\" class=\"wp-image-205594\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-12-1-766x1024.jpeg 766w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-12-1-224x300.jpeg 224w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-12-1-112x150.jpeg 112w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-12-1-768x1027.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-12-1-1149x1536.jpeg 1149w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-12-1-1532x2048.jpeg 1532w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-12-1-scaled.jpeg 1915w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 766px) 100vw, 766px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The author shot the HiTs Super Snubby test on an NRA target. When superimposed on the proper B-8 repair center, and assessing a time penalty, the score was 93%.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For giggles and grins, I placed an IDPA silhouette target at 45 yards. From a bench rest, using <a href=\"https:\/\/highdesertcartridge.com\/product\/38-special-125-gr-tmj\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\">High Desert .38 TMJ<\/a> load, I was able to score three \u201cA\u201d zone hits and two \u201cB\u201d zone hits. I threw one shot completely off target. All shots were fired in double action. For a medium size revolver, with fixed sights, I was pretty impressed with the Viper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-duty-ammunition-testing\">Duty Ammunition Testing<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We shot all four loads into a previously used Clear Ballistics 10% FBI gel block. The rounds were shot into bare gel and into gel through four layers of denim. While time-consuming, the test provided us with some solid data. The table below reflects the results of the gel tests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td colspan=\"7\"><strong>Colt Viper Ballistic Gel Test<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\"><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/td><td colspan=\"2\"><strong>Bare Gel<\/strong><\/td><td colspan=\"2\"><strong>4 Layers Denim<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\"><strong>Manufacturer<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Caliber<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Bullet<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Avg. Penetration<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Average Expansion<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Avg. Penetration<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Average Expansion<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\">Hornady Critical Defense Lite<\/td><td>.38 Special<\/td><td>90 gr. FTX<\/td><td>&nbsp; 13.3\u201d<\/td><td>.46\u201d<\/td><td>19.1<\/td><td>None<\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\">Hornady Critical Defense<\/td><td>.38 Special<\/td><td>110 gr. FTX<\/td><td>&nbsp;.13.8\u2019<\/td><td>.45\u201d<\/td><td>15.6\u201d<\/td><td>.45\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\">Federal Punch<\/td><td>.38 Special +P<\/td><td>120 gr. JHP<\/td><td>14.3\u201d<\/td><td>.55\u201d<\/td><td>18\u201d<\/td><td>.41\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td colspan=\"2\">Hornady Critical Defense<\/td><td>.357 Magnum<\/td><td>125 FTX<\/td><td>&nbsp;.22.5\u201d<\/td><td>.55\u201d<\/td><td>25.75 &nbsp;<\/td><td>.38\u201d<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><td><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The biggest surprise was the penetration of the 90 gr. Hornady Lite. The penetration was consistent and, in bare gel, it expanded as well. I would note that during bullet expansion, the FTX bullet tends to roll back over the lip of the projectile. It does not produce \u201cflower-like petals\u201d like some other loads. Still, the 90 gr. FTX expanded to an average of 32% over its original diameter. As expected, when fired through four layers of denim, the projectiles did not expand and, most of the time, the projectile inverted and came to rest base first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-critical-defense\">Critical Defense<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-13-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Hornady Critical Defense ammo \" class=\"wp-image-205595\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-13-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-13-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-13-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-13-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-13-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-13-2048x1536.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The Critical Defense 110 FTX is probably Hornady\u2019s .38 Special load for personal defense. This load was very consistent in both penetration and expansion in bare gel. In the all stainless steel Viper, the recoil was very manageable. Expansion through the denim was inconsistent. Two rounds expanded with irregular jacket deformation. One round failed to expand and still had the red polymer plug intact. This is similar to what I have observed in other tests. The 110 FTX is an ideal round for the most personal defensive situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"703\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-14-1024x703.jpg\" alt=\"Hornady Critical Defense Ammo\" class=\"wp-image-205596\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-14-1024x703.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-14-400x274.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-14-150x103.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-14-768x527.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-14-1536x1054.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-14-2048x1405.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-federal-120-gr-punch\">Federal 120 gr. Punch<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The Federal 120 gr. Punch was the most impressive. In bare gel, the projectile expanded by .57% of its original diameter. The jacket peeled back completely and the lead core expanded to an average of .55\u201d. When shot through the denim, two rounds expanded while one round failed to expand and inverted at the end of the cavity. I would certainly consider Punch as a carry load for shooters that are not recoil-sensitive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-15-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Federal Punch ammo\" class=\"wp-image-205597\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-15-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-15-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-15-150x112.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-15-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-15-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-15-2048x1535.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>While I really didn\u2019t want to shoot Magnum loads through the Viper, I knew that I needed to just suck it up! The Hornady Critical Defense load is a 125 gr. FTX projectile. I was very interested in how it would perform at an average velocity of 1,356 fps. When shot through the bare gel, the two recovered rounds penetrated 26\u201d and 19\u201d respectively. One round was lost out of the side of the gel block. The two recovered rounds fully expanded down to the base of the base of the cavity. When shot through the denim, the rounds deformed in a very inconsistent manner. The jackets were torn and, in one case, the round collapsed into itself. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Clearly, the combination of the bullet construction, the high velocity, and the denim was disruptive to performance. As previously stated, Magnum loads are pretty brutal in the Viper and I would not suggest punishing the revolver or the shooter\u2019s hand by shooting these loads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"909\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-16-909x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Ammo for Colt Viper revolver\" class=\"wp-image-205598\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-16-909x1024.jpg 909w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-16-266x300.jpg 266w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-16-133x150.jpg 133w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-16-768x865.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-16-1364x1536.jpg 1364w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-16-1819x2048.jpg 1819w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 909px) 100vw, 909px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-17-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Colt Viper revolver on blue carry case with box of Federal Punch ammo\" class=\"wp-image-205599\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-17-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-17-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-17-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-17-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-17-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/Photo-17-2048x1536.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Viper is a great addition to the medium-frame Colt Snakes.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts-on-the-colt-viper\">Final Thoughts On the Colt Viper<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While I was impressed with the Viper, I was not surprised. After having evaluated several Pythons, a King Cobra, and an Anaconda, I knew the quality of the revolver that Colt is producing. If I were carrying the Viper, I would swap the stocks out for a set of rubber Hogue stocks, similar to those that ship on the King Cobra guns. The Harrison replacement front sight is an absolute necessity. Other than those two issues, I find the Viper to be a superb medium-frame revolver. It is sleek and very capable of protecting you and your loved ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>READ MORE: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/what-is-the-327-federal-magnum-good-for\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\">What Is The 327 Federal Magnum Good For?<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once again, Colt has hit a home run and continues to set the standard for defensive revolvers, proving the revolver is alive and well in 2024, and beyond!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong><em>*** <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\" title=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Buy and Sell on GunsAmerica!<\/a> ***<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Don\u2019t look now but it seems that Colt Firearms is determined to take over the revolver market! In the past four years, they have launched a new generation of wheelguns starting with the Python in 2020.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":60,"featured_media":205583,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[694,859,42],"tags":[1494,4166,102,3689,611],"featured":[],"hunt365":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-205582","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-gun-reviews","8":"category-gun-reviews-handguns","9":"category-revolvers","10":"tag-colt-manufacturing","11":"tag-colt-viper","12":"tag-feature-articles","13":"tag-headline","14":"tag-revolvers"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.1 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Colt has hit another homerun with the new Viper, which sets a precedent for self-defense revolvers in the best way!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/the-colt-viper-the-newest-snake\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Colt Viper - The Newest Snake\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Don\u2019t look now but it seems that Colt Firearms is determined to take over the revolver market! 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