Guns International #: 102731634

Category - Sharps Rifles - Antique - Antique Rifles - Cartridge

Category
Sharps Rifles - Antique
Antique Rifles - Cartridge

Fine Condition Sharps New Model 1863 .50-70 Carbine s/n 92955 w/ Civil War Cavalry Carbine Boot, marked E Metzger Philadelphia

Description:
These carbines are among the most historical U.S. government issue arms.  First, as percussion carbines, they were issued to Union troops during the Civil War. where most saw hard cavalry service.  After the war in 1867-1868 most of these carbines were returned to Sharps for converting to .50-70 Center Fire cartridge.  At this point, they were refurbished, refinished, and most had their barrels lined with three groove rifled liners.  They were then re-issued to the cavalry for the Indian Wars and used until the Springfield 1873 .45-70 Trapdoor replaced them. Next, many were sold as surplus to settlers heading west or buffalo hunters. So, in all, these have "been there and done that."

This is a much better example than usually encountered. It still retains some good case colors on the receiver sides and top with the best color in the more protected areas on the right side and a bit more color on the left and top. Fine lightly aged barrel blue that is turning "soft" and mixing a bit with some plum/brown.  Original Lawrence ladder rear sight with slide intact.  Fine receiver markings. Stock shows good cartouche in the center as well as the cartouche under the sling ring bar. Tight wood to metal fit and shows only light normal wear.  Forend is also fine. Tight action with strong safety half-cock on the hammer. The bore is bright with strong rifling and some scattered shallow surface corrosion mainly toward the rear half of the bore which might brush out better. Nicer than usually seen.

Left side of buttstock has an Indian marking.  Includes Civil War Cavalry Carbine Boot, marked E Metzger Philadelphia.

SOLD

Antique: Yes