This model is only estimated to have been manufactured from 1882 to 1884. In “Ballard: The Great American Single Shot” only 14 identified No. 5 ½ Montana rifles were identified and only a few more have since come to light. The 1882 catalog lists the No. 5 1/2 with this barrel length for $32 and $34 for a rifle with a 32 inch barrel and states: "This is a new style just introduced, suited to the Territory trade, where a heavy arm is required." It is very similar to the more common No. 5 Pacific but was only offered in .45-100 Sharps straight (2 7/8 inch) and was fitted with a heavy weight barrel. The heavy barrel allowed for greater sustained accuracy, and the 2 7/8 inch Sharps was more than capable of taking buffalo with proper shot placement. The longest known shot with a buffalo rifle killed an Indian leader at a mile using the less powerful .45-70 cartridge. This example falls right within the range of known Montana rifles discussed in Dutcher's "Ballard: The Great American Single Shot" on pages 165-167. Note the nearly identical rifle on page 165 that is just two serial numbers earlier in production than this example. Like the No. 5 Pacific the rifle has a ramrod under the barrel, double set triggers, and a small loop lever. This example has a dovetailed blade front sight, adjustable sporting rear sight, a smooth forearm and shotgun buttstock with checkered steel buttplate. The barrel is correctly marked "45-100 2 7/8 S." on top near the breech. The left side of the action has the two line J. M. Marlin address and Ballard patent marking. The matching serial number is stamped on the bottom of the action and buttplate. The latter also has some markings from a prior owner. Barrel is serial number "9874".

Very good plus. Traces of the original blue finish and case colors remain. The balance has a crisp brown and gray patina and some light oxidation. There are some tool marks around the front sight. The wood is very good with a couple of small hairline cracks at the front and rear of the forearm, moderate rub wear on the buttstock, and some light scratches. The action and set triggers function excellently, but the action lever will not fully close. The markings are crisp. This is a rare opportunity to get your hands on one of the most desirable Ballard variations.