Taylors & Company Chiappa 1874 Sharps Down Under 45-70 34

The Taylors & Company Chiappa 1874 Sharps Down Under rifle in .45-70 Gov't is a faithful reproduction of one of history's most legendary single-shot cartridge rifles. Built on the proven Sharps action, this 34-inch octagonal-barrel rifle captures the spirit of the classic black powder era while chambered in a modern, versatile cartridge. At 10.6 pounds and 51 inches overall, it carries like a proper rifle should—substantial enough to inspire confidence, balanced enough for extended field use. Whether you're drawn to traditional rifle shooting, long-range hunting, or the authenticity of period-correct firearms, this Down Under delivers genuine Sharps heritage in a package that works.

The rifle wears a crisp blue finish contrasted by case-hardened frame and receiver, a visual signature that honors the original. Checkered walnut furniture provides both grip and character—practical texture that shows the gun means business. The single-stage trigger assembly includes a double set trigger, a refinement that allows you to preset a light, crisp break for precision shooting or use it conventionally if you prefer. Fixed front and ladder rear sights keep you self-sufficient in the field; no batteries, no glass, just proven iron sight fundamentals.

This is a rifle for shooters who value authenticity, accuracy, and the satisfaction of traditional shooting. The .45-70 Gov't chambering offers proven stopping power for hunting applications and delivers the ballistic character shooters have relied on since the 1870s. Single-shot discipline rewards careful marksmanship and rewards patience—every round counts.

Key Features

• Authentic Sharps action reproduction with period-correct aesthetics
• 34-inch octagonal barrel in .45-70 Gov't caliber
• Double set trigger for preset or conventional firing
• Case-hardened frame with blue barrel finish
• Fixed front sight with adjustable ladder rear sight
• Checkered walnut grip and foregrip
• Single-shot capacity with traditional loading

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this rifle suitable for hunting?

Yes. The .45-70 Gov't chambering is a proven hunting cartridge with significant stopping power. The 34-inch barrel provides good velocity and sight radius for field shooting. As a single-shot, it rewards careful shot placement and is well-suited to deliberate, stalking-style hunting approaches.

What does the double set trigger do?

The double set trigger allows you to preset the hammer to a light, very crisp break for precision shooting—simply press the front trigger lightly to set it, then the rear trigger fires with minimal pressure. You can also use it conventionally by pulling straight through without setting if you prefer a standard trigger experience.

What sights come on the rifle?

The rifle features a fixed front sight and an adjustable ladder-style rear sight, providing traditional iron sight shooting without the need for optics or batteries. Both sights are proven designs refined over generations of Sharps rifles.

What's included with the rifle?

We've provided the specifications and features confirmed in the product record. For details on what's included in the box or any additional components, please contact us directly.