Author Topic: Matte Lightning Rifle? (Read 2308 times)

OD#3 · « **on:** March 03, 2013, 11:37:32 PM »

I just purchased a USFA Lightning Rifle in .45 Colt from a good friend. He had acquired two recently, but since one of them was the deluxe version (and absolutely gorgeous) I could only afford the lesser of his two grades. This one I bought was good deal cheaper because of the finish. Although the barrel and other small parts are polished, they aren't what I'd call a high polish. The hammer isn't casehardened, and the receiver has a matte, bead-blasted finish. Finally, the handguard has no checkering--just a lined border. I thought I'd remembered reading something once about an expected "cowboy action" version or "Rodeo" version of the Lightning, but I never read anything since, and I've never seen a Lightning finished in this way--until I bought this one. Anyone know anything about these matte-finished USFA Lightnings?

GaryG · « **Reply #1 on:** March 12, 2013, 08:42:08 AM »

This was Cowboy lightning. Only came with a round barrel, the glass beaded rodeo finish, and uncheckered hand guard. It last showed up in the 2005 pricelist at $1345, about $400 less expensive than the Deluxe you mentioned. The Deluxe version could also be ordered with upgraded wood, color case frame, 1/2 octagon 1/2 round barrel, etc.