This rifle is one of just an estimated 700 1st Type Model 1870s manufactured c. 1870 from converted percussion straight breech rifles, a Model 1859 in this case. There were also another 300 2nd Types made with Model 1874 style actions and another 308 made as carbines. They were made for field trials after the 1870 Board to Select a Breech Loading Rifle. It has an armory bright finished barrel with a military pattern front sight that doubles as the lug for the included socket bayonet, a blued notch and folding ladder rear sight, the serial number on the left at the breech and on the upper tang, armory bright barrel bands and nose cap, military style cleaning rod, casehardened action and breechblock, the Sharps and Lawrence patent markings on the lock, "F" marked on the left side of the frame, "M" marked hammer, "C" on the breechblock pin, an armory bright buttplate marked "US" by the heel screw and sling swivels on the upper barrel band and bottom of the buttstock fitted with a russet leather sling. The bayonet is marked "US" near the bottom of the blade and has a blued iron scabbard and black leather frog with a "US" marked brass hanger.

Very fine with some light brown patina forming on the otherwise armory bright barrel and furniture, 70% plus of the arsenal refurbished case colors visible on the action, and light age and storage related wear. The re-oiled wood is fine and has traces of the original cartouche visible on the left, and minor scratches and dings. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet is good with mild pitting. The sling, scabbard, frog, and hanger are very good with mild age and storage related wear.