Axtell Rifle Co. Model 1877 Sharps 40-70 SS Falling Block Single Shot Rifle

SOLD FOR: $3,775.00

LSB#: LSB260130RL005

Make: Axtell Rifle Company Sheridan Montana 

Model:  1877 Sharps.   

Serial Number: 723L

Year of Manufacture: Circa Early 1990s

Caliber: 40-70 Sharps Straight, 40 2 1/2″

Action Type: Single Shot, Lever Operated, Falling Block Action, with double set triggers.

Markings: The barrel is marked “-MODEL 1877- AXTELL RIFLE CO. SHERIDAN MONT. CALIBRE 40 2 1/2″. The top tang is marked with the serial 723L”.   

Barrel Length: 30″ Octagon

Weight: 12 lbs 11 oz 

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a globe style with spirit level. The rear sight is a semi buckhorn V notch with flip up ladder. There is a MVA Vernier Mid-range tang sight installed. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock on this rifle is two piece checkered walnut, schnabel tip forend, factory added pistol grip with nitre blued cap, straight comb, with checkered case hardened buttplate. The LOP is 12 3/4″ and 13 3/4″ from triggers to buttplate.  There is light handling wear. There are a few light scratches mostly around the wrist. There are no chips or cracks. Overall this stock is in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blued, Case Hardened. 

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is minor fouling. In this writer’s opinion this bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original finish. There is light handling and operational wear. There are light corrosion spots, most notably on the sights. The case hardening is vivid though there is light corrosion freckling. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall this rifle is in Very Good to Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The lever is slightly loose. Other than that the action and trigger function correctly. The hammer holds full and half cock. The double set trigger works as intended. The sight adjustments are free. 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: sight accessories and leather case.   

Our Assessment: The Axtell Model 1877 Sharps is a faithful and highly regarded recreation of one of the most refined single shot rifle designs of the 19th century. The original 1877 Sharps represented an evolution of the earlier 1874 pattern, with sleeker lines, improved ergonomics, and a more graceful profile that appealed to both target shooters and sporting riflemen of the era. Axtell Rifle Company of Sheridan, Montana became known in the late 20th century for producing some of the finest Sharps reproductions available, combining traditional aesthetics with modern machining and metallurgy. Their rifles are often sought after for their quality of fit, finish, and their ability to deliver authentic performance in black powder cartridge shooting disciplines.

Chambered in .40-70 Sharps Straight, or .40 2 1/2″, this rifle reflects a cartridge developed during the height of the American frontier period, offering a balance of manageable recoil, accuracy, and effective range. The .40-70 SS was favored by target shooters and hunters alike for its efficiency and consistency, particularly in long-range shooting where wind drift and trajectory management were critical considerations. Its continued popularity in modern reproductions speaks to its versatility and enduring reputation among black powder cartridge enthusiasts who appreciate its historical roots and practical performance.

This example is a substantial and well-appointed rifle, featuring a 30″ octagon barrel, globe front sight with spirit level, and an MVA Vernier mid-range tang sight, all of which contribute to a classic long-range configuration. The rifle retains approximately 98% of its original blued and case-hardened finish, with vivid colors and only light handling wear, while the walnut stock remains in excellent condition with minor marks around the wrist. The bore is strong and bright, and the double set triggers function as intended, enhancing precision shooting capability. A slight looseness in the lever is noted but does not detract from the overall mechanical function. Accompanied by sight accessories and a leather case, this rifle presents as a refined and capable Sharps reproduction with strong visual appeal and historical character. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF