"Make: Colt
Model: 1877 Double Action Lightning
Serial Number: 154376
Year of Manufacture: 1904
Caliber: .38 Colt
Action Type: Double Action / Single Action Revolver with Six-Shot Cylinder
Markings: The barrel is marked ""COLT'S PT. F.A. MFG. CO. / HARTFORD, CT. U.S.A."" and "".38 DA COLT."" Matching serial number ""154376"" appears stamped on the frame, trigger guard, and grip strap. The left side of the frame bears Colt’s three-line patent dates. Additional inspector marks and proofs appear throughout.
Barrel Length: 3.5” (Front sight replaced with a taller blade)
Sights / Optics: Front Sight: Tall blade replacement, fixed to the barrel. Rear Sight: A notch integral to the top strap.
Grip Configuration & Condition:
Two-piece checkered black hard rubber grips embossed with Rampant Colt medallions. The grips exhibit minor handling marks but no significant cracks or damage, fitting securely. Overall, grips rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued Barrel, Cylinder, Trigger Guard, and Backstrap with Case-Colored Frame and Fire-Blue Small Parts
Finish Originality: Original (except replaced front sight)
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with defined rifling and shows no signs of erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This revolver retains approximately 65% of its original finish. The case-colored frame has transitioned largely to a pleasant gray-tan patina. The barrel, cylinder, trigger guard, and grip frame retain noticeable original blue finish intermingled with light oxidation and tan patina consistent with age and use. The fire-blue finish on the screws remains bold, offering striking contrast. The revolver displays expected wear consistent with honest use, yet maintains a pleasing appearance. Markings remain clear and legible, and screw heads remain sharp. Overall, this revolver rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action does not function properly. The revolver improperly fires from the half-cock position, indicating internal mechanical wear or damage requiring repair. The cylinder advances and locks with slight play, typical for this model. The trigger must be manually reset. We did not fire this revolver. Due to mechanical issues, professional gunsmith evaluation and repair is recommended before any use. As with all firearms, thorough cleaning and inspection is recommended.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Colt Model 1877 Lightning was Colt’s first successful double-action revolver, widely recognized for its innovation, elegance, and handling characteristics. Popular among lawmen, gunfighters, and civilians alike, it remains an iconic piece of firearm history.
This particular revolver, manufactured in 1904 (serial number 154376), is an appealing example that showcases honest use and authentic aging, along with highly attractive fire-blue screws. Although it retains significant original finish and aesthetic charm, its action currently suffers from a mechanical issue, firing from the half-cock position—common to these historically delicate revolvers. A taller replacement front sight adds interest, perhaps intended for practical use or aiming assistance.
For collectors, enthusiasts, or historians, this Colt Lightning .38 offers potential as a restorable collectible or historical display piece. With proper gunsmith attention, it can regain functionality or remain preserved as an intriguing artifact of early double-action revolver technology.
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