Original Item: Only One Available. We have had several examples of the Sharps & Hankins Model 1862 carbine before, and all but two were totally devoid of the original leather cover. One had a few pieces, while another was probably 90% complete, however both were in extremely delicate condition. This example also lost the leather covering, but it was fit some time ago with a lovely replica leather cover, now well aged and really looking the business! We suspect it was custom made, and have not seen another like it out there.

Known as the Sharps & Hankins Model 1862 carbine, this weapon is a wartime .52 caliber rimfire breechloading firearm designed by Hartford, Connecticut native Christian Sharps. Presented is a nice original example of that engineering design called the “Navy” type carbine, which had its barrel covered in a black leather covering as rust protection against the sea elements. Along with some 6,700 other such Navy carbines produced by the Sharps and Hankins firm in Philadelphia, PA, this carbine was chambered for the No. 56 Sharps & Hankins metallic cartridge.

The naval short arm measures 38 5/8” long and weighs 8 pounds. By releasing the small finger release tab and operating the lever, the barrel slides forward to accommodate the copper rimfire cartridge. The 23 5/8” long barrel has no stock fore end. It is fitted to have a blade front sight and a typical Civil War ‘tangent style’ rear sight graduated to 800 yards with a leaf that pivots at the front and raises forward in an arc.

Frame, hammer and operating lever show traces of original color and case hardening amidst the lovely aged patina. Right side of the frame exhibits the distinct address:

Left side frame shows the patent stamp:

All stampings are mostly clear, showing just a bit of wear from age. All lock screws look to be original and in very good condition. Metal surfaces of the carbine appear a mottled dark gray with traces of original color, with years of patina from storage and cleaning. Serial 1924 is clear and stamped unto the upper plate tang, on the bottom of the barrel, on the underside of the receiver under the loading lever, and on the lever itself. The breech must be open to see most of the serial number markings. We do not see any evidence that any parts have been swapped out over the years.

Carbine has crisp mechanics, though it can be a bit stiff due to age. The sliding safety near the hammer is fully functional, and retracts when the gun is fully cocked. The hammer functions correctly, hitting the firing pin on the back of the chamber without issue. The breech latch button is intact, and works perfectly.

The bore is in very good condition, and shows clear lands and grooves, with just a bit of darkening in the grooves in areas. The black walnut stock is very good condition, with a lovely color and grain. It shows only light wear, and no cracks or repairs, and has a lovely oiled finish. No cartouches are visible. Brass butt plate in fine condition, all as shown in in the pictures.

This Sharps & Hankins Model 1862 rimfire carbine is a fine, original arm of the Civil War Federal Navy and would surely enhance any naval display or collection of arms. This is one of the best examples we have ever seen in some time, and are unlikely to find a better one anytime soon. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: circa 1863-64
Caliber: .52"
Cartridge Type: Rimfire
Barrel Length: 24 Inches
Overall Length: 39 Inches
Action type: Lever action Sliding Breech
Feed System: Single Shot

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IMA considers all of our antique guns as non-firing, inoperable and/or inert. Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 921(a)(16) defines antique firearms as all guns made prior to 1899. This law exempts antique firearms from any form of gun control or special engineering because they are not legally considered firearms. No FFL, C&R or any license is required to possess, transport, sell or trade Antique guns. All rifles and muskets sold by IMA that were manufactured prior to 1899 are considered Antiques by the US BATF (United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms). Therefore, all of IMA's Antique guns may be shipped to all US States and most nations around the world.

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Pre-1899 Manufacture, no licenses required, allowed to ship to almost any deliverable address across the globe. Please note that for international shipping, these MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.