Scoped Sharps 1874 Buffalo Rifle

Published on March 15, 2018
Duration: 11:21

This guide details the process of understanding and potentially refitting a Sharps 1874 rifle into a 'buffalo rifle' configuration. It covers the installation of specialized components like heavy barrels and period-accurate telescopic sights, emphasizing the importance of recoil management and trigger functionality. The information is presented with the authority of an expert in historical firearms.

Quick Summary

The Scoped Sharps 1874 Buffalo Rifle represents a specialized firearm configuration, often refitted with heavy barrels and W.C. Rice telescopic sights featuring free-recoiling mounts to manage heavy recoil. Its double set triggers allow for precise shooting, and it was commonly chambered in powerful cartridges like the .40-100 Sharps.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction and Sharps History
  2. 01:13Specific Rifle History
  3. 02:45Buffalo Hunting Context
  4. 04:56Optics and Chambering
  5. 06:27Cartridge and Adjustments
  6. 08:43Visual Markings
  7. 10:19Double Set Triggers

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Sharps 1874 rifle a 'buffalo rifle'?

A Sharps 1874 rifle becomes a 'buffalo rifle' through custom refits, typically involving a heavy octagonal barrel and a large telescopic sight like those made by W.C. Rice, optimized for hunting large game during the 1870s.

How did W.C. Rice scopes handle heavy recoil?

W.C. Rice telescopic sights were often mounted using a free-recoiling system. This allowed the scope to move slightly forward under the rifle's heavy recoil, protecting the delicate optics from damage.

What is the significance of double set triggers on a Sharps 1874?

Double set triggers on a Sharps 1874 allow the shooter to 'set' the trigger mechanism by pulling the rear trigger. This primes the front trigger for an extremely light and precise 'hair trigger' pull, enhancing accuracy.

What caliber was this specific Sharps 1874 rifle originally and after refitting?

This specific Sharps 1874 rifle was originally shipped in .45 caliber. After a custom refit by gunsmith P. Bergersen, it was chambered in .40-100 Sharps, a powerful black powder cartridge.

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