Original Item: Only One Available. We have had several examples of the Sharps & Hankins Model 1862 carbine before, and all but two were totally devoid of the original leather cover. One had a few pieces, while another was probably 90% complete, however both were in extremely delicate condition. This example also lost the leather covering, and is also missing the two screws at the rear of the barrel that would secure it. There is however definitely evidence that it did have a cover installed for many years.

Known as the Sharps & Hankins Model 1862 carbine, this weapon is a wartime .52 caliber rimfire breechloading firearm designed by Hartford, Connecticut native Christian Sharps. Presented is a nice original example of that engineering design called the “Navy” type carbine, which had its barrel covered in a black leather covering as rust protection against the sea elements. Along with some 6,700 other such Navy carbines produced by the Sharps and Hankins firm in Philadelphia, PA, this carbine was chambered for the No. 56 Sharps & Hankins metallic cartridge.

The naval short arm measures 40 5/8” long and weighs 8 pounds. By releasing the small finger release tab and operating the lever, the barrel slides forward to accommodate the copper rimfire cartridge. The 23 3/4” long barrel has no stock fore end. It is fitted to have a blade front sight and originally was fitted with a Civil War ‘tangent style’ rear sight graduated to 800 yards with a leaf that pivots at the front and raises forward in an arc. However, this example has been modified, and now has a Springfield style 2 leaf sight.

The carbine has al overall oxidized patina on the metalwork, with only the barrel having traces of the original blued finish. This definitely looks to be a Naval carbine that was exposed to the ocean air over a long period, causing surface oxidation overall. This gives it a lovely aged patina, showing it was "really there. The right side of the frame still has a faint maker address marking:

Left side frame shows the patent stamp, which is also worn.:

All lock screws look to be original and in very good condition, with some showing some damage to the flathead channel. Metal surfaces of the carbine appear a mottled dark oxidized patina, with some areas of original blue on the barrel. There is evidence of rust peppering and some scaling. Serial 1126 is clear and stamped unto the upper plate tang, on the bottom of the barrel, on the underside of the receiver under the loading lever, and on the lever itself. The breech must be open to see most of the serial number markings. We do not see any evidence that any parts have been swapped out over the years.

Carbine has crisp mechanics, though it can be a bit stiff due to age. The sliding safety near the hammer is missing, probably rusted away long ago. The hammer functions correctly, hitting the firing pin on the back of the chamber without issue. The breech latch button is intact, however it does not hold the loading lever securely at some times due to the spring being weak. There is also overall wear on many of the components due to oxidation.

The bore is in good condition, and still does show clear lands and grooves, but there is also fouling and oxidation present very common for a black powder era gun, especially one that saw service at sea. The black walnut stock is very good condition, with a lovely color and grain. It shows only light wear, and no cracks or repairs, and has a lovely oiled finish. No cartouches are visible. Brass butt plate in fine condition, all as shown in in the pictures.

This Sharps & Hankins Model 1862 rimfire carbine is a fine, original arm of the Civil War Federal Navy and would surely enhance any naval display or collection of arms. This is a lovely "salty" service used example, which a patina that simply cannot be identified. Ready to display!

Specifications-

Year of Manufacture: circa 1863-64
Caliber: .52"
Cartridge Type: Rimfire
Barrel Length: 23 3/4 Inches
Overall Length: 40 5/8 Inches
Action type: Lever action Sliding Breech
Feed System: Single Shot

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