Sharps Model 1874 Military Rifle from an order of five rifles shipped to the Union Metallic Cartridge Company (UMC). The rifle barrel is roll-stamped with the Sharps' "OLD RELIABLE" trademark in front of the barrel band followed by: "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT CONN.". Only 441 of the 1,769 Sharps Model 1874 Military Rifles were marked with the Bridgeport address. The rifle has a blued barrel and casehardened barrel bands, receiver and buttplate. The stock and forearm are oil-finished walnut. The rifle has a brazed lug front sight and Lawrence patent folding rear sight. The 30-inch, 44-caliber barrel is attached by three barrel bands and is marked "CALIBER 44" between the rear sight and the receiver. The left side of the receiver is marked: "SHARPS RIFLE CO/PAT. APR 6 1869" in two lines. The serial number, "156154" is located on the upper receiver tang. This rifle has the consecutive serial number to Model 1874 Military Rifle serial number "156153" in this auction which was also shipped to UMC. The accompanying copy of the Sharps ledger page shows serial number "156154" as a Military Rifle (Mili), 44/70 caliber and shipped to U.M.C. on July 22, 1876.