Model 1859 Sharps Rifle with Pellet Primer

Description

Model 1859 Sharps Rifle with Pellet Primer

Rare Mitchell Contract!

Model 1859 Sharps breech‑loading rifle chambered in .52 caliber and equipped with the Sharps pellet primer system.

The Sharps rifle was among the most advanced infantry arms of the Civil War and was widely issued to sharpshooters and cavalry units due to its rapid rate of fire and accuracy.

The breech tang bears serial number 40,449 indicating manufacture under the Mitchell contract for the U.S. Navy. The barrel retains a brown patina and the rifling remains strong.

Both sling swivels remain present and the rifle retains its original rear sight. A small split is visible on the underside of the fore‑stock near the breech block.

The Model 1859 Sharps ranks among the most important American Civil War shoulder arms, prized for its reliability, rapid rate of fire, and excellent accuracy. Sharps rifles and carbines were widely favored by sharpshooters, cavalrymen, and naval forces, and contract variations are closely studied today. Examples retaining clear mechanical identity and strong original features remain highly sought after in advanced collections.

Inventory Number: RIF 311