Manufactured between 1867 and 1881 with estimated production of the Sporting Rifle at less than 2,000. The Whitney production gun is based on the patent issued to Whitney in 1874 and resembles the James Warner 1864 Patent breechloader. The breechblock is hinged on the right side of the receiver and lifts upward to load. Correctly marked only "PATENT MAY. 26, 74 PHOENIX CAL. 44." on the top barrel flat just ahead of the rear sight. The Whitney name did not appear on these rifles. The matching serial number "1154", is marked on the lower tang, underside of the breechblock, on the bottom barrel flat 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.

Fine. The barrel retains 70% plus thinning original blue finish with smooth brown patina on the balance. The remaining metal surfaces have a smooth mottled brown and silver gray patina. The wood is fine with with a few minor chips on the upper edges of the forearm and overall minor dents, dings and scratches. The markings are clear. The action is fine.