Following the Civil War the U.S. Government decided to convert many percussion military arms to metallic cartridge. These carbines were completely refurbished by Sharps during the conversion process and if needed the stocks were replaced with ones not having a patch box, which is the case with this example. This carbine is chambered for the 50-70 round with the 3 groove barrel. The top of the barrel is marked "NEW MODEL 1863" at the breech (faint). The left side barrel flat is marked with the letter "C". Lawrence patent rear sight and block front sight with brass blade. The lock is marked with the Sharps and Lawrence patent dates, and the serial number is on the upper tang. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with the "DFC" ribbon cartouche on the left side, as well as "Co B" followed by "Co B 6TH CAV", the latter a bit difficult to read. The 6th Cavalry is an historic regiment of the United States Army and began as a regiment in the Civil War, being organized in August of 1861 and took part in 16 major and minor campaigns and their related battles during the Civil War including Fredericksburg and Gettysburg. During a majority of the 1870s and 1880s the 6th Cavalry was based in the Southwest and served in the thick of the Apache Campaigns and also took part in the West during the Indian Wars.

Very good as arsenal refurbished at the time of conversion. The barrel is a mix of thin blue finish and smooth brown patina. The remaining parts have a smooth mottled gray patina. The wood is very good with a shallow indentation running from the top to the bottom on the left side of the stock, and overall some minor dents and scratches. The lock markings are clear. The action is very fine.