Guns International #: 103056800
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Guns International #: 103056800
Category - Sharps Rifles - Antique
- Antique Rifles - Single Shot
16 lb Sharps Model 1874 w/ Factory Letter
Description: Up for sale is a rifle that has undoubtedly led an interesting life. This Sharps Model 1874, SN 156377, started life on July 25th, 1876 as a Model 1874 sporting rifle chambered for the .50 2 1/2 round, having been optioned with a 34 inch barrel and a vernier tang sight - as ordered, it was an extra heavy rifle weighing in at 19 3/4 lbs, and costing $75! This exact rifle is noted on page 143 of Sharps Firearms by Marcot Volume III as being one of less than 10 Sharps rifles exceeding 16 lbs from the factory. The rifle was then shipped to John F. Beaver, of Dayton, Ohio. Mr. Beaver was a notable hunter and marksman of the time, and it is noted that there were many extra heavy Sharps bench rest rifles going to the area. At some point, whether due to wear, or Mr. Beaver wanting to take the rifle hunting, this rifle received a factory replacement barrel chambered for .45 2 1/10; this brought the weight of the rifle down to a touch over 16 lbs. In the factory records the replacement barrel, SN 160291, is blank, indicating that it never left the factory as part of another rifle. Notably, the original lock plate was also seemingly replaced by a modified 1863 model; unsure why, but the mind wanders. Years passed, and then in the early 20th century this rifle was professionally refinished by notable gunsmith John Oberlies of Dayton, Ohio. Oberlies often catered to the wealthy, and his work reflects that; the quality is excellent. The frame and barrel were finished in blue, and the breech block + extractor were left in the bright and polished. The lever and double set trigger were then both case hardened, followed by the wood being refinished (I believe it to be original). Last, but not least, the rifle received a tang sight marked "J OBERLIES 47", and a front blade sight. It is not uncommon for bench rest rifles to be refinished, as they were not typically used in harsh environments, and were kept spotless for peak performance. That brings us to the modern day, where the rifle has remained in the configuration it has been in for the past 100+ years. The condition is still excellent, with the bluing only showing some slight signs of fading (I'd guess 80-90% remains; it is hard to capture the quality on camera), and the rifling looking nearly untouched. The breech block and extractor still have a beautiful shine to them, and the case hardening on the lever and double set trigger remains strong. The wood presents well, with only a few small bumps/bruises that can be seen. The tang sight functions as it should, as does everything on this rifle. All of the markings on the metal are crisp, as shown in the pictures. The barrel looks like it just left the factory yesterday. Accompanying the rifle is a Sharps factory letter attesting to the above specification. The price includes fully insured shipping to anywhere in the continental US. The payment methods listed are the only ones that I will accept. I will also consider full or partial trades for other Sharps sporting rifles. Antique: Yes Rifle Caliber: .45-70 Government Price: $10,000.00 Contact Seller |
Guns International #: 103056800
Guns International #: 103056800