Sharps Model 1878 Sharps-Borchardt Hunter's Rifle, .40-70 Sharps Straight, 26-inch Round Barrel, Antique Single-Shot
This Model 1878 Sharps-Borchardt Hunter's Rifle stands out with its hammerless, striker-fired falling block action and .40-70 Sharps Straight chambering, marked "CAL. 40 2 1/2" at the breech. Built in Bridgeport, Connecticut, it carries the classic "Old Reliable" barrel legend and correct Sharps markings. Serial 18579 places it mid-production within the 1878–1881 run, underscoring its period authenticity and appeal to Sharps enthusiasts.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The safety shows wear consistent with age. There are visible signs of handling, including scratches and blemishes on metal and wood. The stock displays scattered marks and dings.
What's Included
- Sharps Rifle Co. Model 1878 Sharps-Borchardt Hunter's Rifle in .40-70 Sharps Straight
The Hunter's Rifle configuration features a 26-inch round barrel with a flat crown and a barrel-band front sling swivel. The single-shot, striker-fired falling block design is the hallmark of the Sharps-Borchardt system, delivering a sleek hammerless profile and smooth operation.
Chambered in .40-70 Sharps Straight, the barrel is correctly stamped "CAL. 40 2 1/2" at the left breech. Sighting equipment includes a dovetailed front blade/bead and a barrel-mounted open rear sight with a sliding elevator for practical elevation adjustment.
Authentic markings are present: "Old Reliable" on the barrel top, "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT, CONN." on the barrel address, and "BORCHARDT PATENT / SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT CONN." on the receiver. These details align with Sharps production in Bridgeport during the 1878–1881 era in the United States.
The walnut furniture includes a straight-grip, uncheckered stock with a steel buttplate and a matching walnut forend. Length of pull measures 13.75 inches, providing a traditional fit consistent with the model’s hunting configuration.
Serial 18579 indicates mid-production within the limited 1878–1881 run, reinforcing its status as an antique, collectible example of the Sharps-Borchardt pattern.