C. Sharps Arms Mod 1874 Sharps “OLD RELIABLE” 30” 38-56 Single Shot Rifle
SOLD FOR: $2,225.00
LSB#: WY241019DB065
Make: C. Sharps Arms Co.
Model: “Old Reliable” 1874 Sharps
Serial Number: 74-2641
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: 38-56
Action Type: Single Shot, Lever Operated, Falling Block Action, with double set adjustable Triggers.
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 ”38-56”. The left side of the receiver is marked “ C. SHARPS ARMS CO. INC. / BIG TIMBER, MT USA / 74-2641”. The scope is marked “MVA 8X”.
Barrel Length: 30” Heavy profile 70/30 Round / Octagon barrel. This rifle weighs approximately 13lbs 6oz.
Sights / Optics: Currently there are no iron sights on this rifle however the front of the barrel has a dovetail cut for a sight and the tang has been drilled and tapped for a tang sight. The rifle has three scope mount blocks; the rear two are currently holding a Montana Vintage Arms 8 power scope in an external adjustment reciprocating mount. The scope has a simple crosshair reticle. The adjustment knobs function correctly and the scope moves correctly in the mount. The sight picture is clear and the light transmission is good. Overall the scope is in Good+ condition.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture is a two piece smooth “Fancy” walnut. The buttstock is a full pistol grip with smoothed long curved lower tang, straight comb with cheek piece, and has a case colored checkered metal buttplate covered by a leather tie on buttpad. The forend is a traditional Schnabel style forend. The LOP measures 14.25? from the front trigger to the back of the buttplate without the buttpad. The forend shows minor lines and compressions with a notable chip out of the left side below the rear scope mount. The stock shows lines and compressions scattered throughout with a series of marks and small chips on the pommel. The metal buttplate shows almost no signs of wear. There are no visible cracks. Overall the furniture set is in Good to Good + condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, 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 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The receiver has some light scratches next to the take down pin, and some scratches on the bottom of the lever. There is a small mark on the left side of the receiver. The barrel has some light scattered marks mainly on the muzzle and a notable series of drag lines on the bottom running from just in front of the handguard to about mid length on the barrel. The feed ramp shows some lines, and there is some rub wear on the inside of the action. The screw heads range from sharp to slightly tool marked. The markings are clear. Overall this rifle is in Good to Good+ condition.
Mechanics: The action and set triggers function 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: This rifle includes the Leather buttpad.
Our Assessment: This C. Sharps 1874 rifle with a 30″ 70/30 octagon-to-round barrel chambered in .38-56 is a finely crafted firearm that combines historical authenticity with modern precision. The .38-56 Winchester cartridge, originally designed in the late 19th century, is well-suited for black powder or light smokeless powder loads, offering excellent accuracy and manageable recoil. The 70/30 octagon-to-round barrel not only reduces weight compared to a full octagon design but also retains the aesthetic appeal of classic Sharps rifles, making it a versatile choice for target shooting and hunting. The smooth walnut furniture adds an understated elegance, ensuring a comfortable and durable shooting experience.
The addition of double set triggers allows for enhanced precision by enabling a light and crisp trigger pull, a feature especially appreciated by long-range shooters. The Montana Vintage Arms 8x scope, mounted in an external adjustment mount, is a high-quality optic designed to replicate the appearance of period scopes while providing the clarity and precision of modern glass. This combination of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary functionality makes this rifle an exceptional choice for those who appreciate historical designs but demand modern performance. Whether used for long-range competition or as a collector’s piece, this Sharps rifle is a testament to timeless firearm engineering. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
