The Pedersoli Lightning: A Top-Selling Pump-Action Rifle

by
posted on August 22, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
pedersoli.jpg

Davide Pedersoli began his firearm business in 1957, specializing at first in side-by-side and over-under hunting shotguns. In 1960, the Italy-based company changed focus to muzzleloaders. Today the firm has earned a reputation for attention to detail and producing complete firearms with the kind of workmanship you expect from European makers.

Davide died in 1996, but his son, Pierangelo has carried on the tradition while expanding the offerings. The dedication to quality and timeless design has never wavered and the company continues its muzzleloading roots, even offering some great kits reviewed by American Rifleman—like the Model 1805 Harpers Ferry Pistol.

As for the quality that goes into complete firearms, though, the Davide Pedersoli Lightning rifle—based on a popular Colt firearm from the late 1800s—was so popular stateside last year that it ranked fourth among all pump-actions in Gunbroker.com’s 2019 ranking. It didn’t make the top-10 in 2018, so gun owners are taking notice.

The number of versions, undoubtedly, has caught the attention of many gun owners. With two dozen variations, there’s likely something for everyone. Barrel lengths are 24- or 26-inches for the rifle versions—round profile or octagonal, depending on model. Carbine models come with a 20-inch barrel.

Chamberings available include .357 Mag., .44-40 Win. or .45 Colt. Three finishes are offered: blue action and metalwork with a walnut stock; case hardened action and checkered walnut stock; or a deluxe coin-finish action and triggerguard, with hand engraving and fine checkering on the walnut stock.

The looks are classic and timeless. The guns are not 100-percent accurate replicas, though. As Pedersoli explains on its website, “…we made important modifications to the mechanical parts to make the rifle more safe and reliable.” The company website doesn’t include MSRPs, but the Standard version of the Lightning, with 20-inch barrel and blued metalwork, is currently running around $1,500 at many FFLs.

Latest

Gotw Traditions G3 Pro Web
Gotw Traditions G3 Pro Web

Gun Of The Week: Traditions Outfitter G3 Pro

Join American Rifleman staff in this video to get a close look at a single-shot rifle design oriented toward today’s modern hunter, particularly those in states where straight-wall cartridges have been legalized for hunting.

The Armed Citizen® Sept. 12, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Sellmark Ranch Opens, Offers Hunting & Shooting Opportunities To The Public

Sellmark Corporation, the parent company of several notable firearm industry brands, opened its 6,800-acre ranch to the public, which provides dedicated hunts, mile-long shooting ranges and more.

CZ Recalls All-American Trap Combo Shotguns

CZ-USA has identified a manufacturing defect affecting the barrel of certain CZ All-American Trap Combo shotguns.

I Have This Old Gun: Japanese Type 94 Pistol

Among the pantheon of World War II military sidearms, the Japanese Type 94 stands out for a number of undesirable reasons. Aside from its ungainly look, many regard it as one of the most dangerous firearms ever made.

New For 2025: GForce Arms 12Hammer

The latest option in the diverse lineup of GForce Arms shotguns is the 12Hammer, an AR-style platform chambered for 12-ga. shotshells that feeds from detachable box magazines.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.