Description
The Pedersoli 1874 Sharps Business Rifle .45-70, 32″ Barrel is a faithful, high-quality reproduction of the legendary single-shot hunting and target rifle. It’s a modern-built, historically accurate firearm designed for precision long-range shooting with powerful black powder or modern .45-70 Government cartridges, offering a direct link to America’s frontier and buffalo hunting heritage. This rifle ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Key Features
- Authentic 1874 Sharps “Business Rifle” configuration with a 32-inch octagonal barrel.
- Chambered in the potent .45-70 Government caliber, suitable for both historical reenactment and modern hunting.
- Precision-engineered falling block action with a double-set trigger for a crisp, adjustable pull.
- Hand-fitted American walnut stock with a classic crescent buttplate and checkered wrist.
- Fully adjustable vernier rear sight and blade front sight for precise long-range elevation and windage.
- Built to exacting historical standards by Davide Pedersoli, a leader in replica firearms.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .45-70 Government |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 32″ Octagonal |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 9.9 lbs |
| Action | Single Shot, Falling Block |
| Trigger | Double-Set |
When it comes to reaching out and touching a target at 300, 500, or even 1,000 yards with a single, deliberate shot, few platforms command the respect of the Sharps. The Pedersoli reproduction captures that essence. The 32-inch barrel provides a long sight radius and stabilizes the heavy .45-70 projectile for a flat trajectory. The double-set trigger mechanism allows you to take up the first stage, then engage a hair-trigger second stage for a surprise break that minimizes disturbance to your aim. This rifle is a purpose-built tool for a specific kind of shooting discipline. It’s not a fast-handling brush gun; it’s a deliberate, precision instrument. At a price of $1302.27, it represents a significant investment in a specialized firearm, but one built to last generations with proper care. Look, the fit and finish are what set Pedersoli apart—the wood-to-metal fit is tight, and the action locks up like a vault. No gunsmithing required; it’s ready for the range or field straight from the box.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Sharps is for the shooter who values history, precision, and self-reliance. It’s for the black powder cartridge silhouette competitor needing a consistent, accurate rifle for metallic targets at extended ranges. It’s for the traditional hunter who wants to ethically take deer, elk, or bear with a single, well-placed shot, embracing the challenge of a single-shot platform. It’s also for the living historian or reenactor dedicated to authentic period-correct gear. The rifle demands a shooter who understands ballistics, wind reading, and the disciplined pace of loading one round at a time. It pairs perfectly with period-correct leather from brands like Montana Vintage Arms or a modern shooting rest from Caldwell for bench work.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Unmatched historical authenticity and craftsmanship. The .45-70 caliber offers tremendous power and versatility with a wide range of available loads. The double-set trigger and vernier sights enable exceptional long-range accuracy for a traditional rifle. The 9.9 lb weight helps manage recoil. It’s a conversation piece and a functional piece of history.
Cons: It’s a heavy, long rifle, not suited for quick maneuvers in dense cover. The single-shot design means a slow rate of fire—you must make your first shot count. The crescent buttplate can be punishing with heavy hunting loads if not shouldered correctly. It’s a niche firearm with a specialized use case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I shoot modern smokeless .45-70 ammunition in this Pedersoli Sharps?
A: Yes, but with a critical caveat. Pedersoli builds these rifles to withstand modern SAAMI-spec ammunition. However, you must strictly use ammunition loaded to standard pressure levels (often marked “for trapdoor Springfield”) and avoid high-pressure +P or lever-action-only loads. For ultimate authenticity and safety with heavy loads, many shooters prefer using black powder or black powder substitute cartridges.
Q: What is the effective range of this rifle with the open sights?
A: With practice, a skilled shooter can consistently hit man-sized targets out to 500 yards or more. The vernier rear sight is graduated for extreme ranges, and the .45-70’s heavy bullet retains energy well. Hitting a small target like a prairie dog at that range is a different story, but for hunting large game, 200-300 yards is a very practical effective range.
Q: Is this rifle difficult to maintain compared to a modern bolt-action?
A: It requires a different maintenance routine, particularly if shooting black powder, which is highly corrosive. You’ll need to clean thoroughly soon after shooting. The falling block action is simple to disassemble for cleaning from the breech. The process isn’t difficult, but it is mandatory—neglect will damage this fine firearm. For smokeless powder, standard cleaning procedures apply.
Ready to own a piece of shooting history built for modern use? This Pedersoli 1874 Sharps Business Rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
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