The Colt Lightning series was designed by dentist Dr. William H. Elliot of Ilion, New York, who also designed the famous over/under derringers and other firearms manufactured by Remington. Colt adapted the design for everything from .50-95 Express to .44-40 W.C.F. to the tiny .22 rimfire. These .22 rifles were classic "plinking" guns. This rifle was manufactured in 1903 and has a blade front sight, U-notch rear sight, standard markings, smooth forearm with outline, smooth buttstock, and checkered hard rubber buttplate with the Rampant Colt emblem.

Very fine with 75% plus original blue finish, most of the loss on the upper tang and left side of the frame, some mottled brown patina on the balance, aged patina on the brass, light scratches and marks, tool marks by the rear sight, and other minor edge wear. The toe of the stock and buttplate are chipped; otherwise, the wood is also very fine and has light handling and storage related wear. Mechanically fine.