Even though these are called Model 1870s, this particular example is one of only 300 manufactured with the Model 1874 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 serial number is marked on the left rear of the barrel and upper tang. The buttstock has a crisp "ESA" oval cartouche on the left side wrist. The buttplate tang is marked "US". Front blade sight/socket bayonet lug and rear ladder sight graduated to 900 yards. The lock, receiver, lever and buttplate were casehardened and the barrel and barrel bands were bright. Mounted with a full length straight grip stock with two barrel bands, iron forend cap, sling swivels and iron ramrod with a serrated slotted head.

Extremely fine. The barrel retains its natural armory bright polish with some scattered aged patina. The lock and frame retain 85% plus original case colors. The lever shows some muted original case colors mixed with a smooth brownish patina. The buttplate has a smooth grayish patina. The stock is very good with a small gouge behind the lower tang, a small moderate dent on the left side of the buttstock and overall some scattered minor nicks and dings. The cartouche is crisp. The action is excellent.