Iam seeking info on the old army sharps calvery carbine's in 50-70 caliber,black powder,what serial numbers are the most sought after and will the numbers tell if a particuler rifle was in a war like Custerds last stand ....or army units like colt's record's sometimes will confirm?Does Sharps keep records like colt?
Any values greatly appreciated...also did these rifles use brass case's or did they use primer's and paper cased powder charges with minie balls??
Were all these rifles used by the u.s.army or did they sale the carbine's to the public too...
What years were they made?

I am sure someone will correct me, but IIRC; the first models were the linen paper cartridges. Looked like a burrito.

The 50-70 was a stopgap measure for the Army until the trials when the 45-70 was adopted.

Go on the Shiloh Rifles website, they can put you in touch with the man who currently owns the factory records.

Rich

Great info,Thanks a bunch Rich!