Sharps manufactured approximately 6,400 Model 1874 Sporting rifles between 1871 and 1880. They were popular with market hunters in the West and were well known for their ability to takedown bison at long ranges. They were also popular with long range target shooters and were used in both capacities well after the Sharps Rifle Company closed in 1881 due to increased competition from Winchester's famous lever action and single shot rifles. Many Sharps rifles were manufactured in some of the most powerful black powder cartridges ever made. The use of double set triggers and a set of cross sticks made them incredibly accurate. The top barrel flat is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT, CONN." ahead of the rear sight, and script "Old Reliable" in a rectangle with flattened corners, and "BUSINESS .40" at the breech. The matching serial number is marked on the underside of the barrel under the forearm and on the top rear of the receiver. The left side of the receiver is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO/PAT. APR 6 1869". Dovetailed German silver blade front sight and folding ladder rear sight without graduation markings. It has a blue barrel, casehardened remaining parts, double set triggers, and is mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a carbine style buttplate.

Very good plus. The barrel has a mix of blue and brown patina with an area of minor pitting about half way. The buttplate has a smooth mottled dark patina. The receiver shows strong original faded case colors in protected areas with a smooth mottled gray patina on the balance. The hammer and lever have a smooth mottled gray patina, darker on the lever. The wood is very good. There is a crack on the underside of the forearm from the receiver to the screw escutcheon and two minor cracks from the escutcheon forward. There is a shallow gouge which has been lightly sanded on the left side of the forearm and overall there are minor dents and dings. The markings are clear. The action is excellent.