The accompanying factory letter verifies that this rifle was invoiced on January 4, 1876, to W.H. Keister of Olympia, Washington Territory, a homesteader and cattleman. It's recorded as a Model 1874 Sporting Octagon Rifle in .44 caliber using the 95 grain case with a full 30 inch octagon barrel, globe and peep sights, and double set triggers for a $50 net price. Along with the rifle were a bullet mold and swage, 2 5/8 cartridge casings, 3,000 primers, a cap awl, a wad cutter, and other reloading equipment. The features match the letter with the exception of the 2 inch longer barrel which is presumed to have been an error either in recording, reading the ledger, or a mistake by the factory during parts selection given the barrel is numbered to the gun. The top barrel flat is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO. HARTFORD. CONN." ahead of the Lawrence patent rear sight and "CALIBRE 44" at the breech, and an "L" is on the right flat near the breech. The left side of the receiver is marked "SHARPS RIFLE CO/PAT APR 6 1869." The lock is unmarked. It is mounted with smooth forearm numbered to the gun and a straight grip stock with a checkered iron buttplate. The rear tang mounted staff sight is a refinished replacement.

Fine. The barrel retains 50% original blue finish with edge wear and some thinning. The remaining metal surfaces have a smooth mottled grayish brown patina. The lightly sanded, reoiled wood is fine with only a few minor dings and handling marks and minor edge wear. The markings are clear. Mechanically excellent.