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Sharps Model Slant Breech 1853 Carbine

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:600.00 USD Estimated At:1,600.00 - 2,500.00 USD
Sharps Model Slant Breech 1853 Carbine
The Model 1853 Slanting Breech Carbine was also known as the "John Brown Model" and was manufactured by Robbins and Lawrence, Windsor, Vermont for the Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Co. until October of 1856 and made by Sharps thereafter. The Model 1853 was made from 1854 through 1857 with approximately 10,500 produced. The lock is marked "SHARPS / PATENT / 1852", the upper tang is marked "SHARPS / PATENT / 1848" followed by the serial number, and the top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked "SHARPS RIFLE / MANUFg CO. / HARTFORD, CONN." reading from breech to muzzle. Directly behind the rear sight is marked "G10CV", (G Company 10th Cavalry?). Thus Model 1853 can be distinguished from the Model 1852 by the small spring retained stud mounted on the right side of the frame to retain the lever hinge pin, although according to the Sharps Manufacturing Company the Model 1852 and 18534 were the same model with the former being totally made in Windsor, Vermont. The lock is equipped with the Sharps pellet primer mounted on the lock, small blade front and folding leaf rear sights, saddle ring bar mounted from the barrel band to the rear of the receiver (left side), brass barrel band, patch box and buttplate and mounted with a one piece walnut stock.
BBL: 211/2 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 52 percussion
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: 13957
Condition: Very good as period, possibly arsenal refinished. The barrel has a smooth mottled brownish patina, showing some tool marks at the breech end. The lever retains much of the dull arsenal type blue finish with some minor pitting under the finish. There are some strong case colors on the lock and upper tang mixed with smooth brown patina. The brass has an aged patina. The stock is good as freshened with a couple of minor gouges on the forearm, a few minor chips around the lock and scattered minor dents and dings. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent.