Item:
ONTCPK22009

Original U.S. Sharps Model 1A .22 Rimfire 4 Barrel Brass Frame Pepperbox Pistol - Serial 14670

Item Description

Original Item: Only One Available. This is exactly what the Mississippi gamblers carried on the River Boats after the Civil War for self protection. Featuring FOUR barrels, each in .30 Rim Fire that fired individually by way of a single action hammer with a rotating firing pin. Easy to conceal, these were very popular, and often outfitted with custom options, such as the lovely decorative grips on this example.

The barrel is slid forward for reloading by pushing down the button on the bottom of the frame and sliding the barrel forwards. The underside of the barrel is marked with serial number 14670 on the dovetail, which is also marked on the bottom of the pistol grip frame. There were several variations on this pistol, including some in .32RF with a longer barrel. This is the model 1A, with the shorter 2 1/2 inch barrel assembly in .22RF Short, light and very concealable.

These pistols would originally be marked on both sides of the frame in circles around the hammer axis screw, however due to cleaning the markings are now quite worn. The right side is almost completely worn away:

C. SHA[RPS & Co.]
[PHILADA. PA.]

While the left still has:

C. SHARPS
PA[TENT 1]859

Overall metal finish is a nice faded gray patina on the barrels, with a bit of light peppering. The frame has lost almost all of the nickel plating, which is very common. It now has a lovely mustard colored brass patina. The flat bottom grip is very nice, with two lovely dark walnut grip scales, which are in very good condition, showing just a bit of wear.

The advance lever for the rotating firing pin works very well on this example, and we did not notice any mechanical issues. The bores on the barrels are all clear, and still have clear lands and grooves, though they also fouling and oxidation. The barrel slides forward correctly when the hammer is at half cock, and then correctly locks back into place.

An interesting stepping stone in 19th Century American firearms. In very nice collectible condition and ready to display!

Specifications:

Year of Manufacture: circa 1865
Caliber: .22 Rimfire Short
Ammunition Type: Rimfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 2 1/2 inches
Overall Length: 5 inches
Action: Single
Feed System: 4 Barrel Pepperbox. Rotating Firing Pin.

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.

  • This product is not available for shipping in US state(s): New Jersey

    This product is available for international shipping.
  • Not eligible for payment with Paypal or Amazon

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