Even though these are called Model 1870s, this particular example is one of 300 produced with the Model 1874 style action. The actions were made by Sharps and Springfield Armory with newly fabricated parts necessary to complete the rifles. The action for this rifle shows no provisions for the pellet primer system and has the 1848 Sharps patent date on the left side. Only 300 trial rifles were made at Springfield Armory using all new cartridge receivers instead of converted Civil War actions. The matching serial number is marked on the left side of the barrel and upper tang. The buttstock has an "ESA" cartouche on the left side. The buttplate tang is marked "US". Front blade sight/socket bayonet lug and Springfield Model 1868 folding rear ladder sight graduated to 900 yards. The barrel was left in the white, the receiver, lock, hammer and lever were casehardened. Mounted with a full walnut stock secured by two barrel bands (sling swivel on the forward band) and straight grip stock with sling swivel and iron carbine buttplate.

Fair. The barrel has a smooth brownish gray patina. The buttplate has a smooth dark patina with a small amount of minor pitting on the heel. The remaining metal surfaces have a mottled gray patina with scattered minor pitting and several minor dents on the right side of the receiver. The wood is good overall with scattered heavy dings, dents and scratches and clear cartouche. The receiver marking is clear. The action is very good.