This is a nice example of a Sharps Model 1874 No. 3 Target Rifle manufactured from 1871 to 1881 with about 6,500 produced. This particular rifle was manufactured in 1876. The top barrel flat is "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT. CONN." ahead of the rear sight, "Old Reliable" in a box and "CALIBRE 40" at the breech, with a small "X" on the left flat near the breech. The left side of the receiver is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO / PAT APR 6 1869". The lock is unmarked, and the matching serial number is marked on the top of the receiver, bottom barrel flat under the forearm and stamped on the forearm (partial 6838). Windage adjustable front globe sight, a filled block in the rear sight seat and tang mounted mid-range peep sight. 1 1/2 inches ahead of the rear sight seat is a drilled and tapped hole. Blue barrel, casehardened remaining parts, and mounted with smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a nickel plated crescent buttplate. The accompanying factory letter verifies the serial number as a Model 1874 Mid-range Target rifle No. 3 with a sporting butt. The gun was invoiced August 12,1876 to L.H. Mayott of Springfield, Ma. and included two ball seaters 40-330, etc. The letter further states that the gun was returned to the factory and rechambered. The description of the rechambering is not noted.

Very good. The refinished barrel has a smooth plum patina with streaks of thin original blue finish. The left side of the receiver, loading well, hammer and protected areas around the hammer show traces of the original case colors with a smooth mottled silver gray patina on the balance. The buttplate retains 95% original nickel plating with high edge wear and some minor flaking. The refinished wood remains fine with most varnish remaining and a few overall scattered minor dings. The markings are clear. The action is excellent.