Nepalese Sharps 1852 Copy .52 Cal Slanted Breech Single Shot Rifle, Antique
SOLD FOR: $1081
LSB#: 210918MW17
Make: Nepalese
Model: Sharps 1852 Copy
Serial Number: NSN
Year of Manufacture: 1854-1857 Antique
Caliber: .52 Paper Cartridge
Action Type: Slanted Falling Breech Block Black Powder Rifle
Markings: There is a faint marking on the top rear of the barrel that cannot be made out.
Barrel Length: 40 3/8”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a small blade atop a rectangular riser that is fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a V-notch in the down position. In the up position, it is an elevation adjustable V-notch slider. The elevator has hash marks but the numbers are completely faded.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece dark wood with a brass capped and triple banded forearm, straight grip, straight comb, and a brass buttplate. The wood shows several scuffs and compressions, most notable on the buttstock. There is a small split on the comb. There are several areas of darker discoloration from age and handling. The LOP measures 14 1/2” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Bright
Finish Originality: Polished Bright
Bore Condition: The bore is dark and the rifling is defined. There is scattered erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 0% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows a bright surface with scattered dings, mars, scratches, and surface oxidation throughout the metal surfaces. The lever and lower tang have turned a dark patina. The screw heads are disfigured yet serviceable. The marking is illegible. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fair condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. However, the nipple is clogged. 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: This is a 19th century Nepalese copy of a Sharps rifle. It is a copy of the Model 1852 slant breech receiver. These Sharps firearms were obtained by IMA from the cache of arms obtained from the Nepalese Royal Armory. The barrel is about 40 3/8″ and shoots .52 caliber paper cartridges. The rear sight is an odd Nepalese “long range” sight. The action does function correctly yet the nipple is clogged. This would make a neat conversation piece to add to a collection of Sharps rifles. Please see our photos and good luck!