Breechldrs Sharps New Model 1863

[R. MARSHALL]

It is my first possible Civil War rifle. It's a Sharps New Model 1863 thats been converted to 50-70. It's not pretty, but this is the way I like them to look, well used and full of history. I was wondering if the number on the but stock is a unit number? Which would most likey be a post war unit. This rifle also has sling swivels which is pretty cool. The tangs has been welded also. Here are a few pics.

 

[Eric Wittenberg]

I have the exact same weapon, same conversion, same condition. I'm going to fire it for the first time in 140+ years later this year. I can't wait.

 

[R. MARSHALL]

I plan on shooting mine sometime this summer.

 

[plymouthairrifle]

My 50-70 also has the same wear pattern on the stock and wear on the saddle bar from the ring. I have not shot mine yet but I plan on it. I agree on the history that shows on a well used gun.

 

[Michael W.]

Beautiful saddle wear on the stock. Don't know where it has been, but it spent considerable time on a horse...

 

[R. MARSHALL]

Yes it is a handsomely aged rifle. Thanks for the replies.

 

[hrobalabama]

The tang is the weakness of all Sharps rifles, especially those that saw hard use.
I have seen numerous ones in that condition, many not welded just cracked. To the best of my memory, these were made of malleable iron and not steel.

 

[R. MARSHALL]

I found this under the forearm. To bad it wasn't a message from the 1800's.

 

[R. MARSHALL]

Does anyone have any info they can share on what unit or regiment this rifle may have served with?

 

[Patrick H]

Very nice carbine!

 

[Jobe Holiday]

No one has mentioned the sling swivels. They aren't standard on Sharps Carbines, does anyone have any thoughts on them?
J.

 

[R. MARSHALL]

The "U" stamped on the front barrel band looks like some I have seen on Springfields.

 

[R. MARSHALL]

It fits very nicely, like it was made for it.

 

[Jobe Holiday]

Interesting modifications with the swivel at the toe of the stock being much farther down than Sharps located them on their rifles.
J.

 

[Mr.Beal]

The "U" stamped on the front barrel band looks like some I have seen on Springfields.

MINE IS JUST LIKE THIS!!!!

I too have a U on the band and the swivels for a strap!

 

[Mr.Beal]

My 50-70 also has the same wear pattern on the stock and wear on the saddle bar from the ring. I have not shot mine yet but I plan on it. I agree on the history that shows on a well used gun.

Does yours have the swivels added too? After looking at 100s of pic this one and mine Aretha only ones I've seen. I too am missing the ring for the saddle ring.

 

[JOHN42768]

Welcome, enjoy. Great wear pattern