This is an example of a Sharps Sporting Rifle with a metallic cartridge conversion using carbine frames (sling bar hold plugged) and buttstocks (swivel plugged), possibly done at the Sharps factory from 1879 to 1881. Unlike the Meacham conversions this rifle has all of the Sharps markings and parts. These rifles were manufactured from 1871 to 1881 with about 6,500 produced. The top barrel flat has the boxed "Old Reliable" marking followed by "SHARPS RIFLE CO. BRIDGEPORT. CONN." ahead of the rear sight and "40 CALIBRE 2 1/2". The bottom barrel flat under the forearm is marked with the mismatched serial number and "55555" and ahead of the forearm two "G.F. FOGG". The left side of the receiver is marked "C. SHARPS PAT / SEPT. 12TH 1848" and the lock is marked "C. SHARPS PAT / OCT. 5TH 1852". RIFLE CO / PAT APR 6 1869". The serial number is marked on the upper tang. German silver blade front sight and Lawrence Patent marked rear sight graduated to 800 yards. Double set triggers, blue barrel and casehardened remaining parts, and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and checkered straight grip stock with an iron carbine style buttplate.

Very good. The barrel has a smooth gray patina and the remaining metal surfaces have a smooth silver gray patina. The period custom checkered wood is good with a moderate pressured dent on the left wrist and overall scattered minor dings, dents and scratches. The markings are clear. The action is excellent.