Make: Colt

Model: Lightning (Small Frame)

Serial Number: 17667

Year of Manufacture: 1894

Caliber: .22 Short

Action Type: Pump-Action (Slide Action), Tubular Magazine Fed

Barrel Length: 26”, Tapered Octagonal

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a “V” notch, dovetailed to the barrel. The top tang is drilled, tapped and filled for a tang sight (none present).

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece deluxe walnut with a straight grip, straight comb, checkered slide handle and checkered hard rubber Colt buttplate. The wood shows light wear consistent with restoration. There is a visible crack on the top left of the wrist behind the receiver. The forend retains well-defined checkering with light handling wear. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in Good-plus overall condition due to the wrist crack.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Professionally Restored

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly-bright, the rifling is mostly-sharp. There is light erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its current metal finish. The balance of the finish shows minor handling marks and faint signs of use. There is infrequent minor surface oxidation and a few spots of minor erosion under the finish. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. Remaining markings are clear, though the rampant Colt is not present on the left of the receiver. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine-plus condition as restored Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: The Colt Lightning Small Frame chambered in .22 Short was introduced as Colt’s answer to the growing demand for pump-action rifles during the late 19th century. These rifles were both innovative and finely crafted, and while over 89,000 small frame Lightnings were made, few survive today in high condition—especially those chambered solely for .22 Short.

This example, manufactured in 1894, has clearly received professional attention through a high-quality restoration. The absence of the rampant Colt logo on the receiver and the overall appearance support this conclusion. Still, it remains mechanically functional, with a usable bore and sharp factory markings.

Collectors and historians alike will appreciate this rifle’s role in Colt’s legacy as the company’s most significant commercial production rifle. It represents an attractive balance of shootability, visual appeal, and antique status, making it a fine choice for display, investment, or careful recreational use. Please see our photos and good luck!