Colt manufactured approximately 6,496 of these large frame rifles from 1887 to 1894 making it by far the most scarce of the Colt Lightning rifles. This rifle was manufactured in the first year of production. The top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked with the two-line address and 1883, '85, '86 and '87 patent dates. The upper left of the barrel to the left of the rear sight is marked "40 - 60 - 260." The serial number is located on the lower tang, and the left side of the receiver is marked with the Rampant Colt. The rifle has a dovetailed blade sight and adjustable sporting style rear sight and is mounted with a checkered forearm and buttstock.

Very good with 20% original blue finish confined to the protected areas, smooth gray and brown patina on the balance, some minor spotting, and light scratches and dings. The buttstock is good with period added checkering, a chip on the right side of the wrist below the hammer, two cracks in the left side of the wrist, three small holes on the right side of the butt, and light scratches. The forearm is fine and has crisp checkering, a few faint hairline cracks, and minor dings. Mechanically excellent.