This is an example of a very scarce Sharps Borchardt Model 1878 Hunters Rifle. This rifle is one of approximately 62 Hunters Rifles manufactured by Sharps Rifle Co. of Bridgeport, Connecticut from May 1878 to October 1881. The Hunters Rifle was the smallest in standard size and caliber of the Model 1878 civilian rifles and originally sold for $25.00. The Model 1878 was ahead of its time in design and function, but limited adoption of the arm by traditionally-minded shooters undermined its spread in the market. This rifle is fitted with a dovetailed silver blade front sight and a 800 yard Lawrence Patent folding ladder rear sight. The top of the barrel is marked "Old Reliable" and "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT. CONN.", with the left side marked "40 1 7/8. The falling block receiver has a casehardened lever and automatic safety with the left side of the receiver marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT CONN./U.S.A./18281/PAT.DEC.1876." Mounted with a smooth Schnabel tip forearm and straight grip stock with a checkered iron buttplate.