SHARPS Model 1853 Sporting Rifle………SOLD
Created on October 31st 2019
A Good Early Model 1853 Sharps
A fine 1853 Sharps produced between 1854 and December 1859. The rifle bears the serial number “20488” so its about two thirds of the way through the production period. However, it still has the early brass patch box. According to the Frank Sellers book only 295 rifles were produced in this configuration and calibre. This in itself elevates this example in value to the collector. It is specified as a 32 bore. The total production run for the 1853 in all its guises is 2970 rifles. So, in a way we could say that this rifle represents only 10% of the total production. Add to this that it is in the UK and I think we are looking at a rare animal.
Two piece American Black Walnut butt-stock and fore-end. The rifle measures 42 ” in overall length. The heavy octagonal barrel is 24.7/8″ long. The pull length of the single trigger to centre is 13.3/4″. Interestingly the lower tang has a saddle ring fitted – this would appeal to a horse mounted user. Brass patch box and butt-plate with superb wood to metal fit. All the other fittings on the rifle are in iron. It would be accurate to classify this as a Octagonal-barrelled, Plain sporting rifle.
The breech is the slanting type and the block drops on actuation of the under-lever. The under lever itself can be locked into position by a sliding catch mounted on the lower tang. The serial number is clearly marked on the upper tang, adjacent to the following;- “SHARPS / PATENT/ 1848.” The lock plate has lost all but the last two letters of the same and appears to be almost plain. The sights are the standard rear leaf type with a dovetailed simple front sight to compliment it.
Just in-front of the rear sight, on the top flat of the barrel are the standard barrel markings which read;- “SHARP’S RIFLE / MANUFG. CO / HARTFORD. CONN.” The rifle is fitted with the standard flat tape primer retention system and will also function with the use of a percussion cap. A good solid mechanically functioning Sharps Sporting Rifle.
Condition: And there’s the rub….. I would say what it has got going for it is that cosmetically, it is untouched. It has suffered the ravages of time but, it has not been mucked about with ( the Americans’ call it Bubbered !) None of the markings or edges have suffered from the mauling of the over enthusiastic amateur. For this reason it could be a ripe candidate for a Turnball-type restoration. The rifling is very strong but the evil that is black powder has done its best to scar the intricacies of the bore. Not, however, beyond usage.
A chance to pick up something very rare on these shores, without being heavily penalised by the import system. Something of history, an item that was cherished and relied upon by serious men, who knew their stuff. The stuff of Legends!
No License required.
£ 2500. (Sold)
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