Sharps Model 1874

About the Sharps Model 1874

The Sharps Model 1874 is a single-shot, falling-block breech-loading rifle and one of the most iconic firearms of the American West. Nicknamed 'Old Reliable,' it was chambered for powerful black-powder cartridges such as the .45-70 Government, .45-110 and .45-120, and became the favored tool of Plains buffalo hunters who could drop game at extreme range. Its dropping breechblock, operated by the lever-style trigger guard, sealed a heavy cartridge for accurate long-range fire, and target versions with vernier tang sights and double set triggers dominated 1870s long-range competition.

The Sharps 1874 was immortalized in American frontier lore and film as the buffalo hunter's rifle. The legendary long shots attributed to marksmen like Billy Dixon at the Second Battle of Adobe Walls (1874) helped cement the rifle's reputation for reaching out to extraordinary distances.

Sharps Model 1874 specifications

Despite the '1874' designation, manufacture of the Model 1874 actually began in 1871 and continued until the Sharps Rifle Company went bankrupt in 1881. Offered in numerous configurations of barrel length, weight, calibers and sights; the .45-70 was among the most common chamberings.