The Sharps four-barrel pepperbox was manufactured in several models and in the tens of thousands from 1859 to 1874. The cleverly designed pistol fired rimfire cartridges loaded by sliding the four-barrel assembly forward. A firing pin on the hammer rotates each time the hammer is cocked so as to discharge each barrel in turn. Small and pocket-sized, the pistol was easily concealed and natural for self-defense. Some Civil War soldiers carried them into camp and created trouble when drunk or careless, but they are better known as a favorite of travelers, gamblers, and denizens of the west. One was supposedly found on Wild Bill Hickok after his death, a handy backup piece at a poker table.

This example is a .30 caliber, Model 2A. Barrel assembly is smooth with dark gray tone and scattered mottling. Bores are clean and clear. No silver plating remains on brass frame other than a very thin “line” under the breech on right side. The “C. Sharps & Co. / Philada. Pa.” circular stamp on the right frame is crisp as is the “C. Sharps / Patent 1859” circular mark on the left.

Mechanically very fine with crisp action and proper rotation of the firing pin. Barrel assembly opens and closes well.

The dark brown gutta-percha grips are good. The cross-hatching pattern is distinct and raised, not worn down from handling. The serial number (15968) is found on the butt and barrel.

This is a very nice example of the .30 caliber Sharps 2A, as in Flayderman’s system.  [jet][ph:L]

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