Axtell Rifle Co. Model 1877 Sharps 45-100 Falling Block Single Shot Rifle

SOLD FOR: $3,375.00

LSB#: LSB260130RL001

Make: Axtell Rifle Company Sheridan Montana 

Model:  1877 Sharps.   

Serial Number: 139B

Year of Manufacture: Circa Early 1990s

Caliber: 45 6/10, 45-100

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 45 2 6/10″. The top tang is marked with the serial 139B”.   

Barrel Length: 28″ round, tapered barrel. 

Weight: 9 Lbs 10 Oz.  

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a silver blade dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a semi buckhorn V notch with flip up ladder. There is a Stevens style elevation only tang peep with medium eye disc. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock on this rifle is two piece checkered walnut, tapered round tip forend, factory added pistol grip with nitre blued cap, straight comb, with checkered case hardened buttplate. The LOP is 13″ and 14″ from triggers to buttplate.  There is light handling wear but no major damage. 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 very minor corrosion but not pitted scattered throughout. There is minor fouling. In this writer’s opinion this bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% 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. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall this rifle is in Very Good condition, mostly due to the sight condition. If not for that this rifle would be in Excellent condition.    

Mechanics: 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: None.   

Our Assessment: The Model 1877 Sharps represents the pinnacle of Sharps’ single shot rifle development during the buffalo hunting and long-range target shooting era, with its sleek lines and refined action standing apart from the more utilitarian 1874 pattern. Though original 1877 rifles are scarce and highly prized, modern recreations by Axtell Rifle Company of Sheridan, Montana have earned a strong reputation for faithfully capturing both the aesthetics and performance of these legendary rifles. Produced in the late 20th century, Axtell rifles are known for their high level of craftsmanship, careful fitting, and attention to period-correct detail, making them some of the most respected Sharps reproductions available.

Chambered in .45-100, also known as .45 2 6/10, this rifle is tied directly to the great black powder cartridge era of the American West. Developed for increased powder capacity over the .45-70, the .45-100 offered higher velocities and improved long-range capability, making it a favored chambering among buffalo hunters and early target shooters pushing distances well beyond 500 yards. Its continued use in rifles like this reflects its enduring suitability for traditional black powder shooting disciplines, where heavy lead bullets and consistent ballistic performance remain central to the experience.

This example is a well-executed and visually striking rifle, featuring a 28″ tapered barrel, double set triggers, and a practical combination of period-style sights including a tang peep and semi-buckhorn rear with ladder. The rifle retains approximately 97% of its original finish, with vivid case colors and only light handling wear, while the walnut stock remains in excellent condition with clean checkering and no structural concerns. The bore is strong with sharp rifling, and the action operates correctly with crisp trigger function. Light corrosion noted on the sights is present but does not detract from the overall presentation of the rifle. Altogether, this is a compelling example of a high-quality Sharps 1877 reproduction that captures the spirit and performance of the original rifles. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF