5 fan questions about The Walking Dead answered for August 19, 2017
By Adam Carlson
In need of an upgrade
Casen Hetrick on Facebook asks: “Why does Rick still has his Python? Doesn’t have good fire rate, reload is slow…?”
Since his introduction in the very first episode of The Walking Dead, Rick Grimes has used a variety of weapons to eliminate the threat of the undead or rival humans. However, he always seems to go back to his trusty Colt Python.
The Python is known for its stopping power, but does have several negatives. It does had a longer reload time and a slower rate of fire than other weapons that could be used more efficiently, making some fans like Casen wonder why he hasn’t upgraded.
Interestingly, there is one great reason for Rick to want to use it and another one for AMC to keep him using it. First of all, Rick is familiar with the weapon. When something can be proven trustworthy, odds are that someone will keep going back to it until they fail.
On the other hand, AMC has done a great job marketing Rick with the weapon. It’s easy to picture iconic moments of him with the weapon, much like fans think of Daryl with a crossbow or Michonne with her sword. And being able to market that image can not only be profitable, but help to make other characters more unique.