In the 1970s, Colt made a last attempt in the world of sporting rifles and this is a prototype of that venture. The rifle features a barrel manufactured without sights. The rear of the barrel has been drilled and tapped (5 holes) for scope and or rear sight mounting, (plugs missing). Writer believes the holes were drilled to test or tryout different sighting positions. The left rear of the barrel is marked with a "SHARPS" logo followed by "SHARPS SPORTING RIFLE / CALIBER 22-250 REM." and the right side is marked "SHARPS RIFLE COMPANY / HARTFORD CONNECTICUT, U.S.A." followed by a buffalo logo. The serial number is marked on the bottom of the receiver. Falling block single shot action, adjustable trigger and mounted with a smooth straight grain walnut forearm with sling swivel stud and smooth, nicely figured pistol grip stock with rosewood grip cap with an inset Rampant Colt and solid black Pachmayr recoil pad.