This rifle was manufactured c. 1876 and mostly aligns with the rare Long Range Rifle #3 pattern (only 75 made) but was likely a special ordered Model 1874 Sporters that has been period upgraded. Some Sharps are known to have been modified multiple times. It features a spirit level windage adjustable globe front sight, the boxed "Old Reliable" marking and Bridgeport address on top of the barrel, "2 4/10" (.45-90) on the right side at the breech, no dovetail on the barrel for a rear sight, a tang mounted Vernier peep sight graduated "0" to "6" on the left side, standard factory markings on the action, plain single trigger, a plate for mounting the peep sight on the heel for back position shooting, and checkered Schnabel tip forearm and buttstock made from straight grain walnut. The upper tang is numbered "156367" with some of the numbers displaced due to the taps and post for the peep sight. The peep sight is numbered to the gun on the left side of the base, and the lock and buttplate have the matching last four digits. The barrel is numbered "156539" and also has "5" followed by "6/16." The forearm is numbered "6553."

Fine as refurbished, likely in period. It has 60% blue finish showing some thinning and patches of pitting, bright niter blue on some of the small parts, subtle original case colors mixed with gray and brown patina and light oxidation/pitting, and generally mild wear. The refinished wood is fine with crisp checkering, smooth finish, and light scrapes and dings. Mechanically excellent. Overall, this is a very attractive target rifle.