Sharps New Model rifles are far less common than the carbines manufactured during the war, but proved to be reliable and accurate arms. The New Model 1859 was even selected to serve as the primary arm of the 1st and 2nd Regiments of U.S. Sharpshooters. This rifle falls into the correct range for the 6,150 New Model 1863 rifles designed for use with a socket bayonet. It has a blade front sight, Lawrence patent folding rear sight, standard markings, iron patch box and furniture, and sling swivels on the bottom of the middle barrel band and stock.