This popular Colt Lightning shortarm is termed “The Baby Model”, a medium-framed, slide-action or trombone mechanism, .44-40 caliber rifle in excellent, refinished condition. Colt pioneered the slide-action rifle in America and was followed later by Winchester and Remington. Characteristics of the Colt ‘Baby Model’ included a very light weight and a tapered barrel. In excellent overall condition, first shipments of the Colt Lightnings began in 1884 and continued through 1904.

This handsome rifle bears serial # 81905 and was produced in the 3^rd of 4^th quarter of 1897 per Colt records.  Specimen has a 20½” long round barrel mated with a tubular magazine located beneath it secured by a single barrel band at the muzzle.  Magazine capacity ranged from eight to fifteen rounds. When the slide handle beneath the barrel was pulled back, the bolt was forced back ejecting the empty cartridge out the top and cocked the hammer. Returning the slide forward chambered a new cartridge into firing position. The receiver, with its sliding, rail mounted top dust cover, stored cartridges in the tube via a hinged oval loading gate on the right side of the frame. Receiver has no saddle ring and is fitted to a two-piece, oil-stained black walnut stock and forend.

Barrel exhibits adjustable sporting-style rear sights, an iron pinched front sight, and the maker’s address on the barrel top which reads: “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, 1887”. Bore exhibits good rifling with light pitting in areas but should clean to bright. Original black walnut stock lightly refinished and shows normal dings and abrasions from use. No breaks or repairs. No cartouches. Serial #81905 located on the triggerguard tang. Original frame screws good, not buggered. Slightly curved, iron butt plate has no aperture in the stock. Rifle exhibits excellent mechanics.

Firearms may only be shipped to a licensed dealer (FFL Holder) - If you are not a licensed dealer, you must make arrangements with a dealer in your state to receive the firearm and transfer it to you.

DISCLAIMER: All firearms are sold as collector's items only - we do not accept responsibility as to the shooting safety or reliability of any antique firearm. All firearms are described as accurately as possible, given the restraints of a catalog listing length. We want satisfied customers & often "under" describe the weapons. Any city or state regulations regarding owning antique firearms are the responsibility of the purchaser. All firearms are "mechanically perfect" unless noted, but again, are NOT warranted as safe to fire.

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