Colt Lightning .38-40 Winchester

BULLETS & BRASS

- Brian Pearce

Q: I have a Colt Lightning rifle chambered in .38-40 that I inherited many years ago. It is actually in very good condition as it retains around 80 percent of its original finish and the bore looks as new. Mechanically it is crisp and functions positively. In referencing its serial number 71XXX, it appears to have been manufactured in 1894. I have never fired it but would like to. So recently I purchased one box of factory loads and ordered dies and Star line cases and would like to begin handloading.

I have two questions. First, I have read that the .38-40 is factory loaded extremely light, and that through handloading, it can be enhanced considerably. I would like to know your thoughts to see if that is possible. Secondly, the only factory ammo that I could find was Winchester 180-grain JSP, which leads to my next question. What bullets should I use, cast or jacketed?

I very much enjoy Handloader and the knowledge and insight from all of your staff.

T., via e-mail

A: The Colt pump-action Lightning rifle is not an especially ro-bust design, and I strongly suggest to never load it beyond industry pressure guidelines that have traditionally been established at 14,000 CUP. There is considerable “high velocity” data (as well as vintage factory loads) that were intended specifically for the stronger Winchester Model 1892 and Marlin Model 1894 rifles. Furthermore, period steels used in Lightning rifles were rather soft and by today’s standards are relatively weak.