1859 SHARPS RIFLE -MITCHELL NAVY CONTRACT TRAITS

1859 Sharps Rifle - Mitchell Navy contract configuration

Sharps Manufacturing started producing breechloading arms in the 1840s.  In the 1850s there were several models. The US military tested and purchased both Rifles and Carbines.   The 1859 model was the current model in production when the Civil War started.  With the start of the war, both the army and Navy were mobilizing.  The Mitchell contract was for 1500 - 52 caliber rifles fitted for a saber bayonet.  The Navy contract rifles did not go through an inspection process, so there are no inspection marks.  

This example is complete and origional.  The metal is a smooth grey patina and the markings in the metal are clear, visible and readable.  The action works well.  The bore has strong rifling.  The wood is solid and has bumps and dings from service.