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 much of its original finish, which is now beginning to turn plum. All of the original stamps and markings remain crisp and legible.
The lock functions flawlessly on both full and half cock. The original percussion Lawrence Pellet Priming System remains in place in the lockplate. The lock plate stamps are all very crisp.
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. The rear sight is original and unmodified, while the front sight base sports a replacement blade. The stamps on the barrel are still present and legible. The blued finish of the barrel has turned plumb near the breech, but the remaining 80% has near perfect bluing, as it's original owner kept it wrapped in an oil soaked rag for generations. The bore is absolutely perfect with beautiful rifling - an extremely rare feature for Sharps conversions; as most are fairly shot out.
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 carbine would be a great shooter and collector's item!
