C. Sharps Arms 1885 Highwall 30” 45-70 “Old Reliable” Rifle W/ Tang Sight
SOLD FOR: $2,275.00
LSB#: WY241202MH052
Make: C. Sharps Arms Co.
Model: “Old Reliable” 1885 Highwall Sporting Rifle.
Serial Number: 85-655
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: .45-70 Govt., 45-21/10
Action Type: Single Shot, Lever Operated, Falling Block Action, with Single adjustable Trigger.
Markings: The top of the barrel at the front of the forend is marked “Old Reliable”. The top of the barrel is also marked “C. SHARPS ARMS CO. INC. / BIG TIMBER, MONTANA, U.S.A.” and near the receiver with ”CAL. 45 21/10”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “3”. The left side of the receiver is marked “C.SHARPS ARMS CO. INC. BIG TIMBER.MONTANA U.S.A. 85-655”.
Barrel Length: 30” #1 profile octagon barrel. This rifle weighs 9lbs 13OZ.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a globe sight with a simple post insert and a spirit level. There is no cut or dovetail for a rear sight. The tang sight appears to be an MVA soule sight with a long range staff, windage adjustment, and a Shaver “Hadley” style multi aperture eye disc. The barrel also has blocks for mounting a scope. The tang sight shows surface rust, and the controls are sticky especially on the eye disc aperture wheel. The sight base is a Shaver base. It is this writer’s opinion that with a good cleaning and proper lubrication this sight can be restored to full working order.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is a two piece smooth “Fancy” walnut. The buttstock is a full pistol grip with smooth curved lower tang, straight comb with cheek piece, and has a case colored checkered buttplate. The handguard features a Schnabel tip smooth forend. The LOP measures 12.5″ from the front trigger to the back of the buttplate. The forend shows scattered minor wear from use with marks mainly around the Schnabel tip. The stock shows lines and compressions scattered throughout, the comb shows the characteristic marks from the eyedisc, the left flank has a drop chart taped to it. There are no visible chips or cracks. The buttplate shows only very minor wear from use. Overall the furniture is in about Good + condition.
Type of Finish: The barrel is blued and the receiver, hammer, trigger, buttplate and lever are case colored.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The barrel shows some very minor scattered marks and nicks from use, the tang sight base shows surface rust, the action shows debris from use, the trigger also shows some surface rust, and the block shows some surface rust. It is this writer’s opinion most of the surface rust will be able to be removed with a proper cleaning. The markings are clear and the screw heads are sharp. Overall this rifle is in about Good+ to Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire 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 C. Sharps Arms 1885 Highwall is a finely crafted modern reproduction of John Browning’s classic Winchester Model 1885, a renowned single-shot rifle known for its strength, accuracy, and historical significance. This example, chambered in .45-70 Government, features a 30″ heavy octagon barrel, balancing long-range precision with manageable weight. The single adjustable trigger allows for a crisp, customizable pull, enhancing accuracy for both target shooting and hunting. Equipped with a globe front sight with a spirit level and a Soule tang sight with a Hadley-style multi-aperture eye disc, this rifle is optimized for precise long-range shooting, offering fine windage and elevation adjustments necessary for different shooting disciplines.
The rifle’s fancy smooth walnut furniture showcases elegant craftsmanship, including a Schnabel-style forend for a refined yet functional grip and a pistol grip stock with a cheekpiece for enhanced shooting comfort and stability. The case-colored metal buttplate adds both historical authenticity and durability. Weighing 9 lbs 13 oz, this Highwall balances well in the hands while being light enough for practical field use yet heavy enough to mitigate recoil. C. Sharps Arms, based in Big Timber, Montana, is known for producing some of the finest single-shot rifles in the world, staying true to the original designs while utilizing modern precision manufacturing techniques. This 1885 Highwall is a superb choice for collectors, competitive shooters, and hunters who appreciate the rich history and performance of classic American single-shot rifles. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
