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, "40 - 60 - 260" ahead of the receiver 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 brass 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.

Fine. The rifle retains 40% original blue finish on the magazine tube, the barrel has a smooth brown patina with traces of original blue finish in protected areas and the sides and top of the receiver retain 60% thinning original blue finish with edge wear. The bottom of the receiver and the trigger guard have been cleaned bright, showing strong traces of original blue in protected areas. The wood is very good, as varnished over (including buttplate) with the exception of a small chip on the upper right side wrist at the frame, there are a few minor dents and handling marks, with crisp checkering on the forearm. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent.