MODEL 1851 SPORTING RIFLE Description
.36, .44, or .52 cal., Maynard primer device, falling block, slant breech, single shot, hammer mounted inside frame, 18-34 in. barrels with 27 in. most common, folding leaf rear and brass blade front sights, single or double set triggers, blue or case colored receiver, brown or blue barrel, blue breech block and screws, walnut straight grip buttstock and forearm w/brass or iron furniture and pewter forearm cap, barrel is marked "ROBBINS &/LAWRENCE" or "SHARPS' RIFLE/MANUFG. CO./HARTFORD, CONN.", upper tang is marked "C. SHARPS/PATENT/1848", lockplate is marked "C. SHARPS'/PATENT/1852" or "SHARPS'/PATENT/1852". Approx. 193 mfg. in the 1-2050 serial number range, circa 1852-1855. RF=5.