Legendary Colt Lightning Rifle (CLMR) – Excellent Bore – .44-40 Caliber

COLT LIGHTNING Rifle .44-40 – Manufactured 1893

History

The Colt Lightning "Slide Action" Rifles and Carbines—known by the acronym CLMR—hold a significant place in Colt’s 19th-century long-gun production. Unlike lever-action rifles—a market largely dominated by Winchester and Marlin—Colt opted for a pump-action mechanism, offering an innovative and high-performance alternative.

Produced in three sizes and various calibers, this line saw a total production run of over 195,000 units, with nearly 90,000 being the "Medium Frame" version. Among the most sought-after calibers, the .44-40—compatible with Colt Frontier Six Shooter revolvers—remains particularly prized by collectors and historical firearm enthusiasts. Thanks to their rapid rate of fire, handling ease, and smooth action, Colt Lightning rifles are highly coveted today, serving as iconic artifacts of the American West's frontier era.

Our Model

Dating back to the era of the American West, this Colt Lightning Rifle is a rare collector's item, featuring substantial original bluing and an excellent .44-40 caliber bore. The metal components—both the receiver and the barrel—have retained a large portion of their bluing, giving the weapon a beautiful, authentic patina. There is some slight pitting near the muzzle, likely due to improper storage. However, none of the markings are compromised: whether it is the address and .44 caliber stamp on the barrel, or the—always finely detailed—Colt "Colt's Pony" logo on the receiver, everything remains perfectly legible and correct. The serial number 68XXX indicates a desirable 1893 date of manufacture. The wood furniture displays a beautiful, uniform tone; it is perfectly fitted and in excellent condition, save for a few signs of use. The original metal buttplate is also perfectly fitted.

Mechanically, the firearm is flawless, featuring a smooth action and a crisp trigger pull. The 26-inch round barrel, chambered in .44-40 (or .44 WCF), boasts a superb, mirror-like bore with sharp rifling, ensuring excellent accuracy.

This .44-40 caliber Colt Lightning is an iconic Western collector's piece that authentically embodies the history of the American Frontier.

Sold with its classification certificate; a Category D historical firearm as certified by the BNE (National Proof House) in Saint-Étienne.