Handgun Sharps Model 3 Pepperbox Pistol (.22 Caliber)

Sharps Pistol – Pepperbox Model 3

Manufacture: 1859–1874 – Caliber: .22 Short – Feature: Original nickel finish

History

The history of Sharps Firearms is inextricably linked to the story of 19th-century American weaponry. The company built its reputation during the Civil War with the famous Sharps carbine—widely used by the cavalry—and later with its renowned "buffalo rifles." Alongside its long guns, the firm produced a significant range of black-powder handguns, including the famous Pepperbox models. Manufactured between 1859 and 1874, these pistols were produced in the thousands across various models and calibers, notably .22 and .32. Their ingenious rotating firing pin system allowed for the successive firing of all four barrels, creating a compact, reliable multi-shot weapon—an innovation that drove the model's commercial success.

Our model

This Sharps pistol is a rare Model 3 and remains in excellent overall condition.

The original nickel finish is largely intact, despite some signs of wear consistent with its age. The barrel shows faint traces of the original bluing. The "Patent" marking is clearly visible on the left side of the barrel. Serial number 2XXX, stamped on the underside of the grip, confirms a relatively early production date. The piece is completed by a wooden grip in excellent condition, perfectly fitted to the frame.

Mechanically, the firearm is in good working order. The opening mechanism—a signature feature of this model—operates perfectly. The rotating firing pin indexes correctly each time the hammer is cocked, ensuring the sequential rotation of the four firing pins. The four 2½-inch barrels, chambered in .22 Short, feature excellent bores with crisp, well-defined rifling and only normal signs of use.

This Sharps Pepperbox remains a classic of American firearms from the era of the conquest of the West, perfectly embodying the discreet yet effective black-powder pocket pistol.

The firearm comes with its official classification certificate (Category D), issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.