Manufactured between 1867 and 1881, with estimated production of the Sporting Rifle at less than 2,000. Correctly marked only "PATENT MAY. 26, 74 PHOENIX." on top of the barrel just ahead of the rear sight. The Whitney name did not appear on these rifles. The top of the barrel at the breech is marked "45 CAL.". The matching serial number "5603" is marked on the lower tang, underside of the breechblock, on the bottom of the barrel under the forearm and on the inside of the forearm. The barrel is equipped with a blade front sight and a two folding leaf rear sight. The barrel was finished blue and the receiver, trigger guard and buttplate were casehardened. Mounted with a smooth varnished walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. There is a silver monogram overlay "JNR" on the right side of the stock. Consignors notes state there was a Union soldier named Jasper N. Reese, however there is no documentation to support any claim that this rifle belonged to a Union soldier and production started on these rifles two years after the Civil War ended.

Very good. The barrel has a smooth brown patina. The receiver has a smooth mottled silver gray and brown patina with strong traces of original case colors in protected areas. The wood has been freshened with a coat of varnish and remains good with a couple of minor gouges on the left side of the stock, and overall scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. Clear markings. The action is fine.