Taylor’s & Co ARMI Sport Sharps Model 1874 32” 45-70 Rifle MFD 2002
SOLD FOR: $1,600.00
LSB: WY240902TW007
Make: Armi Sport imported by Taylor’s & CO.
Model: Sharps Model 1874
Serial Number: SH4663
Year of Manufacture: 2002 BS date code.
Caliber: 45-70 Gov.
Action Type: Single Shot, Breech Loading, Falling Block, with set triggers.
Markings: The tang is marked “SH4663”.The top of the barrel is marked “TAYLOR’S & CO. INC. WINCHESTER – VA.-”. The left side of the barrel is marked “AC ARMI SPORT ITALY CAL .45/70 U.S.GOV. SH4663” The receiver is stamped with several proofs including the date code “BS”.
Barrel Length: 32” “Light” Octagon Barrel.
Sights / Optics: This rifle is mounted with a Globe front sight with crosshair insert. The rear sight is a flip-up ladder marked from 1-8 with a small notch sight when the ladder is folded down. Both front and rear sights are dovetailed into the barrel. The tang sight is a Vernier style tang sight with a mid range staff and small eye disc.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The furniture set is a two piece checkered walnut walnut. The buttstock is a straight hand grip, straight comb and has a case colored smooth buttplate with a case colored patch box. The forend is a checkered thin profile forend with a Hartford style metal nose. The forend has a small scratch on the left side near the receiver, the nose shows lines and scratches with a dent in the right side. The stock shows lines, scratches, and minor compressions, scattered throughout. The only notable scratch runs from the belly of the stock to the left side. The color case hardened buttplate shows one small nick above the screw. The LOP measures 14? from the front trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. The wood furniture rates in about Good + to Very Good overall condition considering the age of the rifle.
Type of Finish: The barrel is blued and the receiver, lever, buttplate, patch box, Vernier sight and hammer are color case hardened.
Finish Originality: All Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is defined. There is no visible erosion. There is no visible fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. The barrel shows scattered lines, nicks, and scratches with minor finish loss on the edges . The receiver shows some minor operational wear with what appears to be raised marks in the finish and some debris in the recesses. I am not sure exactly what the raised lines in the finish are. They are primarily on the left side of the receiver, please see our high quality photos via the link above. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: This rifle has double set triggers, which function correctly. The action functions correctly. We have not fired 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 Armi Sport 1874 Sharps rifle in .45-70 Government is a faithful reproduction of one of the most iconic and legendary firearms in American history. The original Sharps rifles were renowned for their accuracy, reliability, and durability, making them a favorite among long-range shooters, hunters, and military units during the late 19th century. This 1874 Sharps rifle faithfully replicates the design and aesthetics of the original Sharps rifles, ensuring an authentic shooting experience for enthusiasts and collectors. Chambered in .45-70 Government, originally developed for military use, the .45-70 Government cartridge is known for its effectiveness on game and its long-range capabilities. The 32-inch barrel on the Armi Sport 1874 Sharps rifle provides an extended sight radius, which contributes to improved accuracy and precision at longer distances. The longer barrel length also helps maximize the velocity and energy of the .45-70 cartridge. Equipped with a globe front sight that accepts changeable inserts, a ladder rear sight and a Vernier style tang sight this example is set up for close, mid and long range shooting. The inclusion of the straight hand stock with patch box means this rifle will be easy to slide in and out of a saddle scabbard. The 1874 Sharps rifle features a robust and durable construction that can withstand the rigors of extended shooting sessions and harsh outdoor conditions. Versatile and highly capable, the Armi Sport 1874 Sharps rifle is suitable for a variety of shooting disciplines, including long-range target shooting, black powder cartridge competitions, and hunting. Its accuracy, reliability, and historical significance make it a prized possession for collectors and a highly capable firearm for shooters. Overall, the Armi 1874 Sharps rifle with a 32-inch barrel, classic precision sights, and straight hand stock offers both collectors and shooters an authentic and enjoyable shooting experience reminiscent of the Old West era. Please see our photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
