Shiloh Rifle MFG OLD RELIABLE 30” 45-70 Single Shot Rifle w/ Stevens Sight
SOLD FOR: $2,125.00
Make: Shiloh Rifle Mfg. CO.
Model: Sharps Model 1874 “Old Reliable”
Serial Number: 5934
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: 45-70 Gov.
Action Type: Single Shot Breech Loading, Falling Block, with set triggers.
Markings: The tang is marked “5934”.The top of the barrel is marked “Old Reliable SHILOH RIFLE MFG. CO.” and “CALIBRE 45 / 21/10”. The left side of the receiver is marked “SHILOH RIFLE MFG. CO. FARMINGDALE, N.Y.”. The black buttpad is marked “SHARPS OLD RELIABLE”
Barrel Length: 30” “Light” profile Octagon Barrel.
Sights / Optics: This rifle is mounted with a Globe front sight with a fixed circle post insert. The rear sight is a flip-up ladder sight with a small notch low buckhorn sight when the ladder is folded down. Both front and rear sights are dovetailed into the barrel. This rifle also includes a Stevens Style tang mounted rear sight with a Mid-Long Range Staff and “small” eye disc.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is a two piece smooth “Fancy” walnut. The buttstock is a full pistol grip with checkered curved lower tang, fluted straight comb with cheek piece, and has a black plastic buttplate. The handguard is a thin profile Schnable style handguard. The wood on this rifle shows mild wear with small depressions and lines throughout. The only notable mark is the small chip out of the lip of the forend. The LOP measures 14.25? from the front trigger to the back of the buttplate. The Furniture rates in Very Good + to Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: The barrel is black and the receiver, lever, tang, sight base and hammer are color case hardened.
Finish Originality: All Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion. There is some stubborn fouling in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The metal surfaces show some scattered lines and very small marks. The receiver near the breech has several small scratches from being loaded and unloaded. The rear sight is slightly loose in the dovetail. The screw heads are undamaged and sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: This rifle has double set triggers, which function correctly. The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Shiloh “Old Reliable” Rifle with a 30″ octagon barrel, set triggers, and chambered in .45-70 is a testament to classic American firearms design and craftsmanship. Produced by the Shiloh Rifle Manufacturing Company, this rifle is a modern reproduction of the iconic Sharps rifles that were widely used in the mid to late 19th century. Shiloh Rifle Manufacturing is renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and dedication to historical accuracy, making their rifles highly sought after by collectors and shooting enthusiasts. The .45-70 Government cartridge, for which this rifle is chambered, is one of the most enduring and versatile cartridges in American firearms history. Originally developed for the U.S. military in the 1870s, the .45-70 has proven its worth in hunting and shooting sports due to its substantial stopping power and long-range accuracy. The “Old Reliable” rifle features a 30″ octagon barrel. The octagon shape not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the rifle but also provides additional rigidity and strength. This contributes to the rifle’s accuracy and balance, making it ideal for long-range shooting. The length of the barrel helps in achieving a higher muzzle velocity, improved ballistic performance, and extended sight radius which is particularly beneficial for target shooting and hunting at extended ranges. The set triggers on the Shiloh “Old Reliable” rifle are another notable feature. Set triggers allow for a very light and crisp trigger pull, which enhances accuracy by minimizing the disturbance to the rifle when the shot is fired. This feature is especially valued in precision shooting disciplines, where a consistent and clean trigger break can make a significant difference in shot placement. This example is fitted with a globe sight and Stevens Style Tang mounted peep sight which will aid in the rifle’s ability to shoot long range. The stock and forearm are made from high-quality American walnut, known for its durability and attractive grain patterns. The “Old Reliable” rifle’s historical significance adds to its allure. Sharps rifles played a significant role in American history, particularly during the Civil War and the westward expansion. Owning a Shiloh “Old Reliable” reproduction allows enthusiasts to connect with this rich heritage and experience a piece of history firsthand. In summary, the Shiloh “Old Reliable” Rifle with a 30″ octagon barrel, set triggers, and chambered in .45-70 is a finely crafted firearm that embodies the best of 19th-century rifle design with modern manufacturing precision. The attention to detail in its construction, along with its practical design, ensures that this rifle is not only a beautiful piece of craftsmanship but also a functional piece of history that can be in your hands soon. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
