These pistol rifles were produced in the mid to late 1850's initially using a breech loading pistol action on the first type and then a special pistol rifle action, like this one, on the standard model. This model lacks the ramrod of the First Type. The action uses a falling block opening downward on the movement of the trigger guard/lever. Production was limited to approximately 600. This particular pistol rifle has been converted to 40 caliber Rimfire cartridge, with a 6 groove barrel. Marked "C. SHARPS & CO'S PHILA. PA." on the left side of the action and the serial number, "160" is marked on the upper tang, on the inside of the forearm, patch box lid and buttplate. Small dovetail blade front and adjustable rear sights. The upper tang is fitted with a peep sight base. The barrel was blue, forend cap, patch box and buttplate nickel plated, and the remaining parts casehardened. Mounted with a checkered walnut forearm with an iron forend cap and pistol grip stock with an iron grip cap, patch box and contoured crescent buttplate. Relatively very little is known about these scarce and unique rifles, they are very difficult to locate and are highly prized by collectors. It's unknown how many of these pistol rifles were converted to cartridge, however its believed to be a very small amount. Writer has only seen two others in the past.
BBL: 28 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 40
Finish: blue/casehardened
Grips:
Serial Number: 160

Very fine. The barrel and lever have a smooth brown patina. The action and hammer retain at least 90% original bright case colors. Almost all of the original frosted nickel finish remains on the forend cap, patch box and buttplate with some minor flaking. The wood is also very fine with some overall scattered minor dings and scratches, and a few minor nicks and bruises in the otherwise very crisp checkering. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is fine.