This is a fine example of an original Colt Lightning Express Rifle that was manufactured in 1890 and chambered for the .45-85-285 cartridge. The rifle has a blue barrel, magazine and receiver with casehardened hammer and crescent buttplate. The black walnut stock and forearm have an oil finish and the forearm is checkered. The octagon barrel has a large, "Rocky Mountain" front sight with nickel-silver blade and an adjustable sporting style rear sight. The top of the barrel is marked with the Colt Hartford address/'83-'87 patent dates, with the caliber designation on the left side at the breech. The Rampant Colt trademark is roll-stamped on the left side of the receiver. The serial number is stamped on the lower receiver tang. The Lightning Express Rifle was Colt's attempt to compete with the Winchester Model 1876 and Model 1886 heavy caliber rifles. Production of Lightning Express Rifles was limited and surviving examples are scarce.

Very fine. The rifle retains 75% plus original blue finish with some areas of smooth gray patina and some thinning to a smooth plum patina. The hammer retains 80% original case colors. The wood is also very fine with a couple of minor nicks on the forearm and some minor bruises in the otherwise crisp checkering. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent.