The most famous, single-shot, percussion firearm used during the Civil War was the Sharps carbine, a .52 caliber, breechloading firearm invented and patented by Hartford, Connecticut native Christian Sharps. Presented here is a very fine specimen of the New Model 1859 Sharps carbine that features serial #44148.

Carbine has a 21½” long round barrel and a ‘straight-breech’ type lockplate fitted to its walnut shoulder stock and fore stock. No discernible markings remain on the top of the barrel. All wood is good with moderate dings. There are no inspector’s marks in the wood. Features the iron patchbox in stock. All screw heads are original and in good condition. All gunmetal is in very good condition and has turned to a smooth dark plum / brown patina overall. There is some minor surface pitting where it should be expected around the breech block and the area around the nipple. There is no sling bar or saddle ring because this was part of a small quantity purchased by the Navy in 1861. The serial number of this carbine also places it in the range of that Navy purchase.

Patent stamps are present. Sharps patent stamps appear on the lock plate and left side of receiver. Lawrence patent stamps appear on lock plate and on the rear, flip-up sight. Serial number sharp and strongly stamped unto the upper tang of the receiver. Breechblock operating lever mechanics operate smoothly. Hammer / trigger mechanics are crisp. Bore exhibits minor surface oxidation but rifling is strong.

Representing a small quantity sold to the Navy, this New Model 1859 Sharps carbine is an unusual example of a favorite Civil War weapon.  [jet]

DISCLAIMER: All firearms are sold as collector's items only - we do not accept responsibility as to the shooting safety or reliability of any antique firearm. All firearms are described as accurately as possible, given the restraints of a catalog listing length. We want satisfied customers & often "under" describe the weapons. Any city or state regulations regarding owning antique firearms are the responsibility of the purchaser. All firearms are "mechanically perfect" unless noted, but again, are NOT warranted as safe to fire.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THIS ITEM, AS WITH ALL OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEB SITE,

MAY BE PURCHASED THROUGH OUR LAYAWAY PROGRAM.

FOR OUR POLICIES AND TERMS,

CLICK ON ‘CONTACT US’ AT THE TOP OF ANY PAGE ON THE SITE,

THEN ON ‘LAYAWAY POLICY’.

THANK YOU!