Shiloh Sharps 1874 — .45-70 Government 30” Octagonal Single Shot Rifle with Double Set Triggers
Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.
Final Auction Price: $2,194.69
This Shiloh Sharps Model 1874 is a high-quality American-made reproduction of one of the most iconic single-shot rifles of the 19th century. Chambered in .45-70 Government and fitted with a 30-inch octagonal barrel, double set triggers, and period-correct sights, this example reflects Shiloh Rifle Manufacturing’s reputation for precision craftsmanship and historical fidelity. It presents in Fine Plus condition and is well suited to both serious shooters and Sharps collectors.
Identification
MMA#: 251104JL006
Make: Shiloh Rifle Manufacturing Co., Farmingdale, New York
Model: 1874 Sharps (Reproduction)
Serial Number: 5293 (under tang sight)
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1976–1983
Caliber: .45 2 1/10 (.45-70 Government)
Action Type: Single-shot, falling-block breech-loading rifle with double set triggers
Barrel Length: 30” octagonal
Sights / Optics
Front sight: Large blade set in a dovetailed base, with a Redfield International Match globe sight installed, including aperture insert and rear-mounted level.
Rear sight: Barrel-mounted semi-buckhorn V-notch sight that flips up into a ladder-style sight with sliding V-notch blade.
Tang sight: Rear tang-mounted adjustable peep aperture sight installed on a raised base.
Stock Configuration & Condition
Hardwood stock with straight grip, schnabel-tip forend, fluted straight comb, cheek rest, and metal Schuetzen-style buttplate. The wood shows light storage and handling marks. Length of pull measures approximately 14 1/4” and 13 1/2” from the trigger faces to the buttplate. The buttplate shows minimal wear, with light use visible on the screws. Overall stock condition rates Excellent.
An additional hardwood buttstock with case-colored metal buttplate is included. The extra stock shows light handling marks, with light surface erosion visible on the buttplate.
Finish & Overall Condition
Type of Finish: Blue and case-hardened
Finish Originality: Original
This rifle retains approximately 98% of its metal finish. The barrel shows a few light marks along the edges, the lever has minor scrapes, and the bottom tang exhibits a small area of light surface erosion. The action shows moderate operational wear consistent with limited use. Screw heads are sharp and markings remain clear. Overall condition: Fine Plus.
Bore & Mechanics
Bore Condition: Bright with sharp, deep rifling. Light fouling is present, along with a small amount of light erosion at the muzzle. Bore rated 9/10 by the writer.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly on inspection. This firearm has not been test-fired by our team. As with all previously owned firearms, a professional inspection and routine cleaning are recommended prior to use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories
Included are an instruction manual, installed front globe sight and tang sight, and an additional hardwood buttstock with case-colored metal buttplate.
Our Assessment
Christian Sharps’ falling-block rifle designs represent a pivotal advancement in American firearms history, bridging the gap between muzzle-loading arms and metallic cartridge rifles. The 1874 Sharps became legendary for its strength, accuracy, and association with long-range shooting and the American West.
This Shiloh Sharps Model 1874 reproduction exemplifies the company’s well-earned reputation for producing some of the finest Sharps rifles available, often rivaling or exceeding the originals thanks to modern metallurgy and machining. Chambered in .45-70 Government and equipped with double set triggers and period-correct target sights, this rifle appears to have seen little use and remains in Fine Plus condition. It would make an excellent shooter for black powder cartridge competition or a standout addition to any Sharps or single-shot rifle collection.
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