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Sharps "bulldog" Model 4B Four-Barrel Pepperbox, .32 RF $1900
$1900
38views•2 days ago
Please text anytime 6476871484. Fully functional antique pocket pistol in perfect condition. No PAL required.
Reloadable ammo is available but sold separately for $10 each.
Sharps Model 4B Four-Barrel Pepperbox, .32 RF long and short.
The Model 4 of Christian Sharps' pepperbox is also known as the "bulldog" due to its compact, stubby look. It has a birds head grip and short cluster of barrels. This one is in fine condition, with original blue on the barrels, and case colors on the frame. The rosewood grips are excellent and undamaged, and the varnish is intact. The action is accurate and strong, and the firing pin rotates with each cocking of the hammer. The bores of the 2 1/2 inch barrels are good, with visible rifling. Sharp markings, matching serial numbers on the barrel cluster and frame. SN 1702, very good overall.
History & Background
Christian Sharps (1811-1874) is perhaps best known for his carbines and rifles. During the American Civil War, the Sharps carbine was a popular and trusted side arm, and the “buffalo rifle” became a staple of Western lore. Sharps saw his beginnings in the firearms business at the Harpers Ferry arsenal under John Hall. He soon had his own patents for a breech-loader, and in 1852 moved to Mill Creek, PA to manufacture the first two models of sporting rifles. Later he would contract with Robbins & Lawrence at Windsor, VT, for the manufacture of his guns, finally moving to Harford CT to form the Sharps Rifle Mfg. Co. This company would remain in business until 1874, although Sharps left the company in 1853 and moved to Philadelphia to form C. Sharps & Co. It is here that he manufactured his pistols and revolvers. In 1862 he formed a partnership with William Hankins. The partners continued to manufacture single-shot breech-loading rifles and four-barrel pepperboxes until 1866, when the partnership dissolved. Sharps reverted to “C. Sharps & Co.” until his death in 1874.