#235 • Sharps Model 1874 Bridgeport Sporting Rifle

Part of The Ray Howser Firearms Collection, 1931-2026 (timed auction by Lewis & Grant Auctions)

Starting at $2,500.00

Status: Available

Live bidding starts Nov 20, 2026 10:00 AM EST

.44-77 caliber, 30" half octagonal to round barrel, S/N 155257. The bottom of barrel has the same number.  The barrel has a mount for a sling swivel.  Checkered stock and checkered forearm with pewter tip.  Double set triggers.  Open front blade sight and Lawrence rear barrel sight.  Blued barrel with case colored frame and buttplate. The barrel retains most of the original blue finish with very little wear to the high edges. Some light dulling turning to a plum patina.  The frame is sharp and crisp with a mottled gray to brown display.  The stock and forearm retain most of the original vanished finish with some nicks and dings.  The bore is bright and shiny.  Overall this is a very good Sporting Rifle.  This rifle was shipped on August 30, 1876 to B.Kittredge & Co Cincinnati, Ohio as a Model 1874 Sporting Rifle, 44-77 caliber, Sporting Rifle 30" half Oct to round barrel.  This rifle was purchased from Ben Sears in 1967 by Ray Howser. Ben Sears was the great grandson from his mother's side of, E.H. Shaffle.  Shaffle was an American mining engineer, journalist, and property owner heavily active in California's famous gold-mining districts.  The Engraved Colt new line that will be in the sale was also owned by him.