Government records list 6,686 of these carbines purchased for the Navy. Many saw extensive use during the war in both the Union's "blue water" and "brown water" navies. The leather cover on the barrel is secured by a band at the muzzle and screws at the breech and was designed to protect the barrel from corrosive saltwater; many are badly damaged or entirely absent unlike this fine example which retains it almost entirely apart from the bottom flap which covered part of the lever. It has a band at the muzzle, blade front sight, adjustable rear sight, and standard Sharps & Hankins markings.

Very good, showing a mixture of brown patina, mostly silvered case colors, and an attractive antique patina on the brass with some scattered light surface pitting. The leather barrel cover is good as it is almost entirely complete with moderate wear, a tear around the left screw, and some mild age related drying/cracking. The period revarnished wood is fine with some minor dings and scratches scattered throughout. Mechanically excellent.