Colt Model 1877 Lightning 38 Colt 4.5” Double Action Revolver MFD 1906 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,326.00

LSB#: WY241016BM003

Make: Colt

Model: 1877 Lightning

Serial Number: 161158

Year of Manufacture: 1906

Caliber: 38 Colt

Action Type: Double Action Revolver with a Swing-Out Loading Gate

Markings: The barrel is marked “COLT’S PT. F.A. MFG. Co. HARTFORD. CT. U.S.A.” The left side of the frame is marked “PAT. SEPT. 19. 1871 / JULY. 2. 72. JAN. 19. 75” with the Rampant Colt logo. The bottom of the frame is marked “161158” The trigger guard is marked “15206” The butt of the frame is marked “100203” The cylinder is marked “972” The loading gate is marked “287”

Barrel Length: 4.5”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a fixed blade. The rear sight is a groove in the top strap.

Grip Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered hard rubber featuring the Rampant Colt logo. They exhibit light wear with no significant cracks or chips. The checkering remains well-defined, and the grips rate in Very Good condition overall.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is defined. There is some erosion present. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10.

Overall Condition: This revolver retains about 90% of its original metal finish. There is light holster wear on the muzzle as well as handling marks throughout. The screw heads are tool marked with serviceable slots. The markings are faint but legible. This revolver rates in Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder locks up with minimal play. As with all used firearms, a thorough inspection by a qualified gunsmith is recommended before live firing. A thorough cleaning may be required to meet personal maintenance preference.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Custom shoulder holster and 6 blank rounds.

Our Assessment: The Colt Model 1877 Lightning was Colt’s first production double-action revolver and remains one of the most historically significant firearms in their catalog. Introduced in 1877, this revolver was designed to compete with European double-action designs while maintaining the rugged appeal of the Old West. Chambered in popular calibers such as .38 Long Colt, the Lightning quickly became a favorite among gamblers, lawmen, and outlaws alike. Its smooth double-action mechanism, combined with Colt’s renowned craftsmanship, made it a highly desirable sidearm in an era dominated by single-action revolvers. The Model 1877 earned its nickname, “Lightning,” thanks to its swift action and reliable performance, traits that set it apart from its contemporaries.

For collectors, the Model 1877 holds a special allure not only for its innovation but for its association with iconic figures of the American West. These revolvers were famously carried by personalities like Billy the Kid, who valued their quick handling and compact design. This particular example, with its antique status and original finish, offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship and engineering of late 19th-century Colt firearms. Whether displayed as a centerpiece in a collection or treasured as a tangible connection to the frontier, the Colt 1877 Lightning remains a timeless piece of firearms history that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. Please see our high quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.