Original U.S. Remington-Hepburn No.3 Falling Block Target Sporting Rifle in .40-50 Sharps Straight Caliber with Aperture Sight - Serial 4570

Original Item: One Only. The "Remington-Hepburn" falling block single shot rifles were designed by Lewis Hepburn, who had patented the action in 1879. These were manufactured manufactured during the late 19th century with approximately 10,000 in total production. As these were sporting rifles, they could be ordered with a multitude of options, calibers, and trim levels. This is the standard sporting rifle, with a heavy octagonal barrel in .40-50 Sharps Straight, one of several chamberings these were available in.

The top barrel flat is marked with the Remington & Sons Address marking, used until approximately March 1888, after which the company was bought out.:

E. REMINGTON & SONS. ILION. N.Y. 

After 1888, the company became "Remington Arms Co.", so this rifle is definitively considered a Pre-1899 Antique Firearm by the BATF. The receiver is marked on the left side with the patent information:

HEPBURN'S PAT.
OCT. 7TH 1879

The underside of the barrel is marked with 40.1⅞, another way of referring to the 40-50 Sharps Straight centerfire cartridge. The serial number marked on the end of the trigger guard is 4570, while the underside of the barrel and receiver end of the forestock are marked with assembly number 4056. There is additionally a marking on the underside next to the receiver which reads ST. NO 4..

The metal surfaces are in very good condition, especially the barrel, which still retains most of the original bluing, with the rest faded towards plum, the edges of each facet slightly worn. The receiver, was most likely originally either bright steel or case colored, and now shows a mottled stained patina, without any peppering or major rust issues. The action cycles correctly, with a functional ejector, and dry fires as well, with the hammer properly bouncing back. The bore is in very good condition, showing a mostly bright finish with crisp lands and grooves. There is just a bit of past oxidation and fouling in the grooves, indicating it was well cared for. The aperture sight on the rear receiver tang is fully functional and looks great.

The stocks are in very good condition, with a lovely glow from years of polishing, looking to possibly have been varnished long ago. There are some scratches and dents present, but no cracks, repairs, or other major damage. The butt stock has a very nice checkered pistol grip, and also shows light wear. Definitely a fantastic set of furniture for a great rifle.

A very attractive late 19th century sporting rifle, ready to research and display!

Specifications-

Years of Manufacture: circa 1885
Caliber: .40-50 Sharps Straight / 40-1⅞-inch Sharps
Ammunition Type: Centerfire Cartridge
Barrel Length: 26 inches
Overall Length: 41 3/4 inches
Action: Lever action Falling Breech with Manual Hammer
Feed System: Single Shot

NOTE: International orders of antique firearms MUST be shipped using UPS WW Services (courier). USPS Priority Mail international will not accept these. International customers should always consult their country's antique gun laws prior to ordering.