Sharps 1874 Replica – .45-70 Govt – IAB Action / Double Set Triggers / BPCR Starter Rifle

Description:
Offered for sale is a Sharps 1874 replica chambered in .45-70 Government. - FFL Required

Based on my inspection, the action appears to be an IAB Model 1874 action with a one-piece firing pin and mechanical firing pin block that retracts the pin as the breech block is lowered.
I have personally shot this rifle with black powder and a 525-grain cast bullet, and to my surprise it has proven to be a very accurate rifle—consistent hits at 500+ yards. This would make a solid entry-level rifle for someone wanting to get into long-range BPCR or silhouette shooting, or a unique project rifle for someone who enjoys Sharps-pattern rifles.

Condition / Details

Barrel

• Bore is exceptionally nice.
• No visible pitting or corrosion.
• One of the better-looking bores/barrels I’ve seen, even compared to newer rifles.
• Barrel and forearm have been intentionally aged/antiqued (including wedding-band detail), and the appearance is very well done.
• Barrel has been drilled and tapped in multiple locations.

Action

• Appears to be an IAB 1874 action.
• One-piece firing pin.
• Mechanical firing pin block retracts firing pin as breech is lowered.
• Double set triggers work very well; currently adjusted to approximately 6 oz.
• Hammer spring is strong with good tension.
• This rifle does not have half-cock feature due to the design of the breech block

Stock / Furniture

• Rear stock is rough-cut and unfinished.
• Would benefit from sanding and final fitting to suit the next owner.
• No butt plate installed.
• Previous owner had a deteriorated rubber recoil pad; removed and replaced with a temporary pad.
• Forearm is unique and aged to match rifle.
• Pewter tip/trim appears older and fits the antique style.

Markings / Provenance
Please read carefully:

• Action has been polished/sanded.
• “C. Sharps” and serial number appear to have been re-stamped.
• I cannot verify the authenticity of the barrel marking.
• There is a stamp on top of the barrel that may reference J.R. Lower, but I cannot confirm that.
• My opinion: someone invested considerable time making this rifle resemble an older C. Sharps-style rifle, but I cannot represent it as an original C. Sharps or as confirmed J.R. Lower work.

Please do your own research andaccordingly.
Measurements checked

• Headspace: .016"
• Firing pin protrusion: .065"

Both are within what I’d consider normal for a replica.
Final Thoughts
This is an unusual rifle with a lot of character. It draws attention at the range and gets people asking questions. If I were keeping it, I’d fit a matching stock, finish it out, and enjoy it.
A very interesting BPCR starter rifle, shooter, or project gun with a great barrel and excellent trigger.
FFL REQUIRED:
This rifle came into my possession as a serialized modern replica action. It will ship to a valid FFL only. Buyer responsible for compliance with all local/state/federal laws.
 

Rifle Caliber: .45-70 Government
Manufacturer: IAB
Model: 1874
Serial Number: C48909
Barrel Length: 30 Inches
Bore Info: Excellent - see pictures
Chambers: Excellent
Ejectors: Good
Condition: good
Metal Condition: good
Wood Condition: Fair
Bore Condition: Excellent - see pictures
Triggers: Good
Stock: Fair
Fore End: Pewter
Butt Pad: New
LOP: 12.75
Finish: Fair
Sights: Unknown Globe Front Sight

Price: $1,350.00
Shipping: $75.00