Hello,

It is my understanding that Japan bought a handful of the Borchardt m1878's back in the day from the factory (this is the extent of my knowledge on the subject). I am trying to find more information about this. I may have located one of these rifles.

Thank you

It turns out it was China, not Japan. Still trying to learn more though

get a copy of Frank Sellers book on the Sharps rifles. He had access to the factory records and at the time of his death had the largest collections of Sharps rifles in the world.

It has serial number ranges, etc.

Rich

Page 273; My words from that page; The Government of China bought 300 Model 1878s, in Oct 1877. 32 inch barrel, full stocked musket type, steel buttplate. Marked with 4 large Chinese characters on the barrel. Caliber is not listed but they were either 45-70, 40-70, or 44-77. Production started in Dec 1877; the Oct 77 date might be the order date.

Thanks guys, I have the book on order. Based on what dpcd posted, it sounds like it could be the real deal.

I had a Borchardt varmint rifle in 219 Zipper Improved back in the 80. I did not realize what I had and like a fool I sold it.

Mark

Mark, +1.
I once owned two customs.

A.W Sukalle 25-35 Improved.
Niedner Borchardt in 38-90 with DST's and the breech block modified for an external cocking piece.

There is an elderly gentleman up near Wayne Jacobson's place that builds them today. Argus Barker. He offers DST's as a $800 +/- option. The basic rifle is pushing $6000, but they are handmade with gorgeous wood.

Shiloh Rifle has been working on a new one. Their major issue is figuring out shrinkage rates to make the parts. They were close, and then they bought Carmen Axtell out three years ago. We are finally seeing the M77 from them.

I hope your quest proves successful.

Rich