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The Colt Lightning rifles were Colt’s most successful attempt to compete with Winchester, Remington, Marlin, and others in the lucrative repeating rifle market but were still sold in relatively small numbers despite being very fast actions and reliable. These “Express Model” rifles were the rarest of the series, and only 6,496 were manufactured in 1887-1894 compared to nearly 90,000 each of the Small and Medium frame versions. Finding an example in high condition, such as offered here, is becoming difficult.
CONDITION: Excellent. The barrel and magazine retain 97% plus bright original high polished blue finish and the receiver retains 90% bright original high polish blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. 75% original nitre blue remains on the loading gate. The wood is also excellent showing a few minor handling marks. The forearm checkering is crisp overall. Mechanically excellent. An exceptional Colt Large Frame “Express Model” Lightning Rifle that will be difficult to improve upon.
Estimate: 9,500 - 16,000
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CONDITION: Excellent with 95% plus of the bright original high polish blue finish, 97% vivid original case colors, minor handling wear, some patches of smooth brown patina on the buttplate, and light cycling wear visible on the breech bolt. The wood is also excellent and has nearly all of the original oiled finish, crisp checkering, some minor dings, and very minimal overall wear. Mechanically excellent. This is a stunning Colt Lightning Magazine Rifle from the Winchester Repeating Arms Collection and Winchester Gun Museum! Provenance: The George F. Gamble Collection.
Estimate: 10,000 - 18,000