Manufactured between 1876 and 1880, one of approximately 900 produced. The "Business 45" was introduced as a variant of the Sporting Rifle, chambered for the 45/70 2.1 inch straight cartridge featuring a blade front sight and a Lawrence folding, adjustable rear sight on the barrel, which is roll stamped "Old Reliable" in a panel followed by "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT, CONN." ahead of the rear sight and "45 CALIBER 2 1/10" behind. The receiver has patent markings on the left side and on the lock plate. The serial number is marked on the upper tang. It has double set triggers and is fitted with a smooth forearm and buttstock with multi-point checkering at the wrist and a smooth rifle buttplate. There is an "X" carved in both sides of the buttstock.

Good. The barrel has a mix of blue and brown patina with some scratches. The frame shows minor traces of original faded case colors in protected areas with a smooth dark mottled gray/brown patina on the balance. The replacement hammer has a mottled brown patina. The wood is fine with a chunk out of the butt, on the upper edge on the left side just ahead of the buttplate tang and various other dings, dents, scratches, and marks. The action is excellent.