Colt Lightning Pump Action Repeating Rifle 1888 .38 Colt CLMR Antique
SOLD FOR: $2,775.00
LSB#: WY250108JL004
Make: Colt
Model: Lightning
Serial Number: 25707
Year of Manufacture: 1888
Caliber: .38
Action Type: Pump action
Markings: Top of barrel is marked with “Colt’s PTFA MFG CO , HARTFORD CT, USA PATENTED MAY 29 SEPT 18 83 MAY 26 86 JUNE 15 86 FEB 27 87” and “38 Cal:” Left side of the receiver is marked with the colt rampant pony.
Barrel Length: 26”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a dovetailed brass blade sight. The rear sight is an adjustable semi buck horn leaf sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a wood buttstock and wood pump grip. The LOP measures 13.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the cresent buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition, with moderate superficial scratching throughout.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: Internal Tube Magazine
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. The bore rates 9/10 in this writer’s opinion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows aging and patina buildup. There is no distinct wear. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are clean. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine-Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions as intended. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: Grab up one of Colt’s most beloved rifles today! The Colt Lightning was a competitor model to Winchester’s line of lever action repeaters. Colt originally offered a lever action of their own, the Colt Burgess Rifle. After backroom dealings with Winchester referred to as “The Gentleman’s Agreement”, the Burgess died an ignominious death in return for Winchester staying out of Colt’s revolver market. The Lightning carried on the torch that the Burgess dropped. Instead of a lever action, the Lightning used a pump action to reload after each shot, allowing for an astounding rate of fire. This is an early model “Medium Frame” Lightning that fires .38 rounds. Get this gun today and see why so many people swear by their Lightnings. So bid high and bid firm. I highly encourage you to take a look at the condition of the piece in our high-quality photos. Good luck with your bid. -K.F.
