Only a total of 700 "Business 40" rifles were reportedly manufactured between August 1876 and September 1880, with the .40-70 2 1/4 inch Sharps cartridge offered for this model until March 1878. "Old Reliable" and Sharps Bridgeport address on top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight, "BUSINESS 40" on top of the breech, "2 1/4" on the right of the breech with matching serial number on bottom of the barrel, and "54170" marked inside the replacement lock assembly.

Good as frontier issued, showing gray patina on the iron, a brighter appearance on the replacement lock, and scattered mild freckling and pitting. Re-oiled forearm is also good with general characteristic wear, scratches, dents, cracks and an absent section at the top left front. Replacement buttstock is very good with some light handling marks. Mechanically fine. This desirable Sharps Bridgeport Model 1874 Business Model heavy barrel buffalo rifle would make a fine addition to any western firearms collection!