another Colt Lighting copy

[Marshall Sam Holland]

I was wondering who knows anything about a Colt Lighting copy, I beleive by Great Western Arms, a found one NIB for 400.00 in 45lc....are they any good??
any thoughts appreciated...

[Jax Orebetter]

I believe that is American Western Arms (AWA). Those rifles had some problems, but one of the Pards that frequent these boards by the name of Manatee is the one you need to ask about those. He did a lot of the work and refitting to get them running like they should. At least that's the story I heard.  His e-mail is   manatee@bananariveroutfitters.com

[Marshall Sam Holland]

Thanks, the dealer told me on the phone Great Westren, but another partner told me also, that he thinks AWA, which he has one in 38. He said was good after a few bugs were worked out...

[Marshall Sam Holland]

Well, I shot 'er, and she a little ammo picky....255 gr. 45Colt had some chambering probllems, 250 gr. works great, and she won't think about chambering a 180 gr bullet...otherwise shoots great, good point of aim...

[Hell-Er High Water]

AWA's from the factory have their problems.  I have an AWA in 45 Colt that was custom built by Eldon Penner in Gardnerville, NV.  He went to Italy for AWA to help the Italians set up the production facilities.  If the Italians and AWA had followed his recommendations the guns would have been just fine.  My gun was built from AWA parts that Eldon has in stock.  If you are in need of repair of a Colt Lightning, original or reproduction, Eldon is the man to talk to.  I believe that his official business name is Penner Lightning Rifles.  My rifle likes 200 grain RNFP loads and feeds just fine.

Eldon also rebuilt an original large frame Colt Lightning for me and converted it to 45-85-285 caliber (Colt's name for the 45-70) and it is a real shooter.

I would recommend him for any Lightning work that you  might need done.  He can be reached at 775/783-8387.

HHW