Firearms

Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Company Sharps Model 1851 Sporting Rifle

Specifications

About

Notable Variants

Aftermarket Ecosystem

Historically Significant Examples

Serial Number Data

Production data from factory records and collector research. Year ranges are approximate for pre-1968 firearms.

Years	Serial Range	Count	Factory	Country	Confidence

Christian Sharps's breakthrough falling-block breech-loading design in its sporting configuration. The reliable paper/linen cartridge combustion mechanism and rapid reloading made it dramatically superior to muzzleloaders for hunters. Predecessor to the iconic Civil War and buffalo hunting variants.

Type: Rifle

Action: Falling Block

Caliber: .44 Sharps

Capacity: 1

Year introduced: 1851, USA

Weight: 128 oz

Overall length: 47"

Status: Discontinued

Intended use: hunting, civilian