3251

Very Fine Colt Lightning Large Frame Slide Action Express Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:3,250.00 USD Estimated At:6,500.00 - 9,000.00 USD
Very Fine Colt Lightning Large Frame Slide Action Express Rifle

Estimate: $6500 - 9000
Also known as the "Express Rifle", Colt manufactured approximately 6,500 of these large frame rifles from 1887 to 1894. This rifle was manufactured in 1888. The top barrel flat is marked "COLT'S PT.F.A.MFG. CO. HARTFORD CT. U.S.A. / PATENTED MAY 29, SEPT. 18, 83, MAY 26,85, JUNE 15, 86, FEB. 22, 87." The left upper barrel flat is marked, "38-56-255" at the breech and the serial number is located on the lower tang. The Rampant Colt trademark is roll-stamped on the left side of the receiver. The rifle has a blue finish with a casehardened hammer. The barrel is fitted with a dovetailed German silver blade front sight and adjustable sporting type rear sight. The rifle is mounted with an oil finished checkered forearm and smooth straight grip stock with a steel crescent buttplate.
BBL: 28 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 38-56
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 1668
Condition: Very fine. The rifle retains 85% plus original blue finish with the balance thinning to a smooth plum patina on the barrel and some lower tang wear on the receiver. The wood is also very fine with a few minor dings and handling marks, and some mild wear and bruising in the otherwise crisp checkering on the forearm. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent.
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