Here's a handsome looking Sharps 50-70 Conversion carbine. This little rifle was originally built in a percussion configuration during the Civil War. When the war ended, 30,000 Sharps Carbines were converted to 50-70 Centerfire Cartridge for use in the Indian Wars. Most of these converted carbines were sent West in the 1870s and it is documented that some of Custer's famous 8th Cavalry were issued Sharps Conversions.
This particular Sharps is in great shape. All original from top to bottom, the carbine still retains most of its original finish.
The lock functions flawlessly on both full and half cock. The lock plate stamps are all very crisp and legible much of the original case hardened finish is visible on the lock plate, receiver, lever, butt plate, and barrel band.
The block locks up nice and tight with no slop or play in the breech. The firing pin is functional; not seized. The extractor is in excellent condition and works flawlessly.
The barrel and bore are both in great shape. Most of the original blued finish remains intact. The maker's stamps on the barrel are faint as a result of refinishing at the arsenal when the piece was converted - to be clear, this gun features original, arsenal-applied finishes. This gun was not refinished by the civilian market! Both front and rear sights are original and functional; unmodified. The bore is excellent with some light pitting near the breech, and excellent rifling throughout the rest of the barrel.
The stocks are in beautiful shape with no cracks, chips, or dents. The inspector's cartouche from when the carbine was converted is still very visible on the butt and all the edges of both the butt stock and forend are nice and sharp.
All the hardware is original and matching no rust. No military rifle collection is complete without a Sharps and this is one of the nicest examples we've ever had. This carbine would be a great shooter and collector's item!
