COLT LIGHTNING for Sale

Quick Look

The Colt Lightning was first introduced in the late 19th century as Colt's response to Winchester's dominance in the lever-action rifle market. Designed as a pump-action rifle with a higher rate of fire than lever guns, it earned favor with hunters and lawmen in its time. Today, it stands as a collector's piece prized for its historic role and distinctive mechanical design.

Why It's a Top Choice

• Pump-action speed with classic Western-era aesthetics
• Available in multiple calibers including .22, .32-20, and .44-40
• Smooth action with reliable cycling for its time
• Highly collectible among Old West enthusiasts
• Distinctive design with tubular magazine below the barrel

Key Variants

Colt Lightning Small Frame

Chambered in .22 caliber, best for plinking and small game hunting.

Colt Lightning Medium Frame

Popular with ranchers, offering .32-20 and .38-40 chamberings.

Colt Lightning Large Frame

Designed for big game, this .45-85 variant suits powerful frontier needs.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	Colt Lightning	Winchester 1873	Marlin 1894
MSRP	Discontinued	Discontinued / Replica	$1,200 (modern production)
Capacity/Size	10-15 rounds (tubular mag)	12-15 rounds	10 rounds
Weight	7.2 lbs (approx.)	7.5 lbs	6.5 lbs
Optics-Ready	No	No	Limited (modern only)
Trigger Type	Single-action	Single-action	Single-action
Notable Pro	Faster cycling than lever rifles	Prolific Western history	Modern chamberings available
Notable Con	Limited parts availability	Heavier than modern rifles	More recoil in pistol calibers

Best Use Cases

• Western firearms collections
• Historical shooting events
• Reenactments and frontier replicas
• Classic hunting rifle nostalgia
• Firearm investment and antiques trade

FAQs

What is the Colt Lightning chambered in?

It was produced in .22, .32-20, .38-40, .44-40, and .45-85, depending on frame size.

Can I still find parts for a Colt Lightning?

Parts are limited; reproduction components are available via specialty gunsmiths and collectors.

How does the pump mechanism of the Colt Lightning compare to a lever-action?

The pump-action allows quicker follow-up shots and a different feel compared to lever-actuated cycling.