Of the approximately 6,500 Model 1874 sporting rifles manufactured only 2,120 were manufactured at Hartford with octagon barrels, and among those rifles are a wide range of combinations of standard and special order features. This early rifle was manufactured around 1874 and has matching "C" prefix serial numbers on the bottom of barrel (under the forearm and receiver, only used up through C54800/154800), the matching number minus the "C" on the bottom of forend and lock, a globe front sight, "SHARPS RIFLE. CO. HARTFORD CONN" ahead of the Laurence patent notch and folding ladder rear sight, a sporting folding tang peep sight, double set triggers, matching serial numbers, a pewter forend cap, smooth straight grain walnut stock and forearm, and military style smooth iron buttplate.

Fine with 70% original blue finish on the barrel, 25% original case colors, brown patina throughout, light oxidation, minor marks and scratches, and distinct markings. The front sight is bent. The wood is also fine and has some mild scrapes and dings throughout. Mechanically excellent. Looks like it just came out of an attic. A fine representative Sharps rifle!