This model is famous as Colt's only attempt to compete head to head with Winchester in the lever action rifle market, but that competition was quickly cut short after less then two years of production, reportedly due to an agreement between Colt and Winchester to stay out of each other's respective markets. Colt may have also simply decided to focus their attention on their distinctive Lightning rifles. Regardless of the reasons, the Burgess was arguably superior to the contemporary Winchester Model 1866, 1873, and 1876 rifles; the action was shorter and more refined than the comparable Model 1873. A total of just 3,775 rifles were manufactured in 1883-1885, 2,556 with octagon barrels and 1,219 with round barrels. As a "working gun", these Colt lever actions saw hard use with this example in well above average condition. The barrel is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable rear sight and is stamped with the two-line Colt Hartford address/patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight. The left side of the blued receiver is a stamped Rampant Colt trademark. "BURGESS'S PATENT" is stamped on the lever. The forearm and straight grip stock are walnut. The buttstock is fitted with a trapdoor crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Exceptionally fine with factory refurbished finish on the barrel and magazine tube, original finish and smooth brown patina on the balance, and minor wear. The wood is excellent with a couple slight stress lines at the upper tang and some very scattered handling marks. Mechanically excellent. A solid representative example of the very desirable Colt Burgess lever action rifle.