The query “What Year Taurus Have Fly By Wire” is an interesting one, though perhaps a slight misdirection when discussing firearms. “Fly by wire” technology is typically associated with vehicles, particularly aircraft and modern cars, where electronic systems replace mechanical linkages for control. It’s not a common feature, or really a feature at all, in firearms like those produced by Taurus or classic rifles like the Lightning.
However, if we interpret the question more broadly, perhaps the user is interested in the evolution of firearm technology or simply using “Taurus” and “fly by wire” as search terms that led them to information about rifles. In that spirit, let’s delve into a discussion about Lightning rifles, as shared by an enthusiast, and explore what makes them fascinating.
The Allure of the Lightning Rifle: An Enthusiast’s Journey
One dedicated shooter, known as Cowpoke Chris, shared his extensive experience with Lightning rifles, highlighting why these classic firearms remain captivating despite any perceived drawbacks. His journey began with an AWA (Armi Sport replica) Lightning rifle in .45 Colt. This rifle became his gateway into the world of Lightning rifles and quickly won him over.
He recounts using this .45 Colt AWA in several matches, even achieving clean runs at prestigious events. While acknowledging he’s not a top-tier shooter, he emphasizes his speed with the Lightning compared to lever-action rifles. Straight out of the box, his AWA .45 Colt performed admirably, with only one issue arising from neglecting cleaning, which was easily resolved. This initial positive experience fueled his interest in acquiring more Lightning rifles.
Expanding the Collection: .44-40 and Beyond
Driven by the desire for a rifle that might require less cleaning, he sought out another AWA Lightning, this time in .44-40 caliber. His reasoning was sound: less blowback could translate to less fouling. He soon found and purchased one. This .44-40 AWA had a tight chamber initially, which required gunsmithing to polish, but after that, it performed well. He also discovered and removed a magazine spacer, increasing the rifle’s capacity.
His collection grew to include a genuine Colt Lightning in .32-20. Described as “lovingly restored” with a professional action job, this Colt was both beautiful and functional, acquired at a favorable price.
Another Colt Lightning, this time in .44-40, entered his arsenal. This particular rifle had historical significance, being a military issue model from Costa Rica, one of only 350 made in that configuration, complete with a bayonet lug. The search for a bayonet to complete this piece was underway.
A small frame Colt Lightning in .22 Long was added for .22 sidematches, demonstrating the versatility of the Lightning platform across different calibers and shooting disciplines.
The Rare and Fun: Mares Leg Lightning
Cowpoke Chris also acquired a rare AWA Lightning Bolt Mares Leg pistol. While not approved for SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) events, he emphasizes the sheer fun of shooting this unique firearm. Its rarity adds to its appeal for collectors and enthusiasts.
Looking ahead, his next Lightning rifle ambition is a Large Frame Colt, ideally chambered in “.45-85-285,” a Colt proprietary cartridge akin to .45-70. His interest is piqued by the cartridge’s potential for higher velocity due to a lighter bullet, a detail he intends to explore further should he acquire such a rifle.
Embrace the Lightning, Forget the Taurus (In This Context)
The initial lines of the original post mention discouragement and “Taurus being problematic.” While the specifics aren’t detailed, the overall message is clear: don’t let potential issues with one brand (implied Taurus) deter you from the Lightning rifle platform altogether. Cowpoke Chris’s experiences highlight the joys and satisfaction of owning and shooting Lightning rifles, particularly those from AWA and Colt. His journey underscores that with proper care and understanding, Lightning rifles can be reliable, enjoyable, and even competitive firearms.
So, while “fly by wire” might not be a feature you’ll find in a Taurus rifle, or any firearm for that matter, the world of firearms, particularly classic designs like the Lightning rifle, offers its own kind of engaging technology and rich history for enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.
