For Sale: Sharps Model 1852 Carbine

Sharps Model 1852 carbine manufactured from 1853-1855 by Robbins & Lawrence in Windsor, VT for the Sharps Rifle Manufacturing Company of Hartford, CT. The Model 1852 Sharps firearms were the first to utilize the new priming system designed by Christian Sharps and patented in 1852. Because of the backward angled breech, these arms became famously known as “slant breech” Sharps. These models used a retaining spring, like those used for barrel bands on a variety of period firearms, to secure the lever hinge pin. Both of these features make the Model 1852 easily distinguishable from later Sharps models.

The Sharps Model 1852 carbine shown here is chambered in .52 caliber. The barrel is 21 inches long (per original Sharps measuring method) with a brass blade front sight and second type “squirrel ear” (“mule ear”) rear sight. A 9-inch saddle ring bar attaches to the left side of the receiver and barrel band; no saddle ring is present. The breechblock is the early type. The butt plate, barrel band, and patch box are all brass and the wood stock and forearm are oiled black walnut. Metal finish is bright (in the white).

Markings include ‘SHARP’S RIFLE/MANUFG CO./HARTFORD, CONN.’ barrel address located between the breech and rear sight and ‘C. SHARPS’/PATENT./1852’ on the lock plate. The tang bears ‘C. SHARPS/PATENT/1848’ near the front and further back the serial number. Matching serial numbers are found on the rear face of the breechblock and bottom of the barrel (under the forearm). No inspection marks are visible. Assembly number ‘318’ is marked on the inside of the patch box lid and on the bottom of the box (in the wood).

Condition of the metal surfaces is very good with mostly bright metal with some patches of minor oxidation and pitting. The markings are sharp, and the brass furniture is semi-bright with very few handling marks. Bore condition is excellent with bright surfaces; deep, sharp rifling; and some pitting in the grooves near the breech. The wood is deep brown with scattered handling marks throughout, a few are heavy yet small. Two small cracks are present in the forearm at the breech end and the butt stock toe is chipped at the butt plate. The pellet priming system cover is missing. The action is strong with secure clicks at half- and full cock, the breech opens/closes smoothly with no resistance and remains tight when closed, and the trigger pull is good.

This is a beautiful Sharps Model 1852 carbine, very hard to come by in this condition.

See pictures for overall condition. Antique. Check with a local FFL dealer to confirm your state laws governing ownership of antique firearms before purchasing this item.