Sharps Model 1874 Old Reliable .45-70 Govt. Single-Shot Rifle with 32 in Full-Octagon Blued Barrel and Color Case-Hardened Receiver
This Sharps Model 1874 Old Reliable is a sporting rifle pattern chambered in .45-70 Government, built around a 32-inch full-octagon blued barrel and a falling-block, single-shot action with an external hammer. It features a color case-hardened receiver, hammer, and lever, classic iron sights, and period walnut furniture. The right side of the receiver is marked "C. SHARPS' PAT. SEPT.
12TH 1848."
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The rifle is in solid shape with visible scratches and blemishes from prior handling and use. Minor pitting is present.
What’s Included
- Sharps Model 1874 Old Reliable .45-70 Govt. single-shot rifle
The rifle follows the classic Sharps sporting configuration with a 32-inch full-octagon blued barrel in .45-70 Government. The single-shot, falling-block action with an external hammer delivers the recognizable 1874 operation and profile.
The receiver, hammer, and lever are color case-hardened over steel, adding visual character consistent with the period. The right side of the receiver carries the "C. SHARPS' PAT. SEPT. 12TH 1848." marking.
Sighting is handled by a barrel-mounted ladder rear sight with a sliding elevator paired to a dovetailed blade front sight. This setup reflects the era and supports precise elevation setting along the sight ladder.
Walnut furniture includes a straight-grip stock and a matching walnut forend. A steel checkered shotgun-style buttplate caps the stock, and the length of pull measures 14.25 inches.