This is an example of a desirable Sharps Model 1874 Sporting Rifle that was manufactured in 1877. The top barrel flat is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO. HARTFORD CONN." ahead of the rear sight, with "Old Reliable" trademark ahead of that and "CAL 45" at the breech. The barrel is fitted with a dovetail mounted front globe sight and a replacement reproduction folding ladder rear sight absent of graduation markings. There is a mid range tang mounted peep sight that has been recently installed. The left side of the receiver is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO./PAT APR 6 1869" and the serial number is stamped on top of the receiver. The lock is correctly without markings. The matching serial number is marked on the bottom of the barrel under the forearm and the forearm is marked "6916". Also on the bottom of the barrel is "4 15/16". Single trigger and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a checkered steel buttplate. The accompanying factory letter states that serial number 156916 is noted as a Model 1874 Sporting Octagon rifle and that it was invoiced to E.S. Harris, the only General Agent of Sharps, on April 24, 1877. It further verifies the caliber, 30 inch octagon barrel, open sights, single trigger and oil finished stock.

Very good. The barrel retains 40% original blue finish mixed with smooth brown patina. The remaining surfaces have a smooth gray patina with some minor pitting on the hammer, lever and lock. The wood remains very good with a sliver absent on the upper right front of the forearm, a chip on the right side heel, minor age cracking along the butt edge and overall minor dents and scratches. The markings are clear. The action is fine.