Taylors & Company 1874 Sharps Sporting .45-70 Gov, 32″ Barrel
$1,739.89
Get the Taylors & Company 1874 Sharps Sporting .45-70 Gov, 32″ Barrel for precise, historic long-range shooting. This single-shot rifle features a sliding breechblock action, double set trigger, and walnut stock for sub-MOA accuracy at 500+ yards.
The Taylors & Company 1874 Sharps Sporting .45-70 Gov, 32″ Barrel is a faithful reproduction of the original Sharps design, built for the long-range shooter who values history as much as precision. Chambered in .45-70 Government, this single-shot sliding breechblock rifle delivers the deliberate, high-accuracy performance that made the Sharps legend. With a 32″ octagonal blued barrel, color case hardened receiver, and walnut stock with Schnabel forend, it’s a steady-handling piece that rewards patience and skill. Per Taylors & Company specs, this rifle is a direct descendant of the 1874 model, retaining the double set trigger for precise shot control. Last updated: April 2026.
| Manufacturer | Taylors & Company |
|---|---|
| Model | 1874 Sharps Sporting |
| Material | Steel barrel and receiver, walnut stock, Schnabel forend |
| Compatibility | .45-70 Government ammunition |
| Finish | Blued barrel, color case hardened receiver |
| Weight | ~9.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Sliding Breechblock Action: Why it matters – This single-shot action ensures rock-solid lockup and zero play, critical for consistent headspace and sub-MOA accuracy at 500+ yards.
- 32″ Octagonal Barrel: Why it matters – The extra length and mass stabilize heavy .45-70 bullets, reduce muzzle rise, and extend sight radius for precise windage and elevation adjustments.
- Double Set Trigger: Why it matters – Adjustable to a crisp, light pull, this trigger eliminates creep and let you break shots cleanly, reducing flinch and tightening groups.
- Color Case Hardened Receiver: Why it matters – Not just aesthetic; this surface treatment adds wear resistance and corrosion protection, keeping the action smooth over decades of use.
- Walnut Stock with Schnabel Forend: Why it matters – The contoured forend provides a consistent hand hold, reducing torque variation between shots, while the walnut dampens recoil and improves balance.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the precision rifle nerd who wants to shoot black powder cartridge loads, compete in long-range silhouette matches, or simply own a piece of history that still delivers on the range. It’s built for shooters who value craftsmanship over speed and understand that a single, well-placed shot beats a dozen wild ones.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Authentic 1874 design, excellent accuracy potential with handloads, durable blued and case-hardened finish, double set trigger for fine control, classic walnut stock.
- Cons: Single-shot action means slow follow-up shots; heavier than modern hunting rifles at ~9.5 lbs; .45-70 Gov ammo can be expensive and high-recoil for new shooters.
Comparison vs Competitors
| Feature | Taylors & Company 1874 Sharps Sporting .45-70 Gov | Geissele Automatics Super Duty 14.5″ | Zev Technologies OZ9 V2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Type | Single-shot sliding breechblock | Semi-automatic direct impingement | Semi-automatic striker-fired |
| Caliber | .45-70 Government | 5.56 NATO | 9mm Luger |
| Barrel Length | 32″ octagonal | 14.5″ | 4.5″ |
| Trigger | Double set (adjustable) | Geissele SSA-E (2-stage) | Zev Pro flat (adjustable) |
| Weight | ~9.5 lbs | ~6.5 lbs | ~1.8 lbs |
| Capacity | 1 round | 30 rounds | 17 rounds |
| Ideal Use | Long-range precision, historic matches | Duty, carbine courses | Competition, concealed carry |
FAQ
What is the effective range of the Taylors & Company 1874 Sharps Sporting .45-70 Gov?
With proper handloads and a good scope or tang sight, this rifle can deliver consistent hits on man-sized steel targets out to 800 yards. Many long-range shooters use it for 500-1000 yard silhouette matches.
Is the double set trigger adjustable?
Yes. The front trigger can be set to a light pull weight (typically 2-4 lbs) by first pressing the rear trigger. This reduces trigger travel and creep, improving precision.
Can I mount a scope on this rifle?
Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for a tang sight or scope mount. Many shooters use a long-eye-relief scope or a traditional tang peep sight for precision work.
What type of ammunition works best?
The .45-70 Gov is versatile. For best accuracy, use jacketed or cast lead bullets weighing 300-500 grains with a moderate powder charge. Black powder or smokeless loads are both safe, but always follow the manufacturer’s pressure specs.
How does the recoil compare to a modern .308?
Recoil is substantial but manageable due to the rifle’s 9.5 lb weight. Expect felt recoil similar to a .308 from a 7-8 lb rifle, but the heavy barrel and stock dampen it effectively.
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