Found a Used Sharps Carbine - Deal or No Deal

[Mac Attack]

I stopped by my local gunshop to pick up some reloading supplies and saw a used BP .54 Cal Sharps Carbine on the rack for $595. Overall the condition was good but I was not able to determine the maker of the rifle. I have always wanted a Sharps rifle but they normally cost >$1. I never really thought of one using paper cartridges but read up on them and they look fun and interesting to roll your own. I really don't need another firearm but if this is a good deal I might pick it up.

So, is this a deal or should I walk away?

 

[arcticap]

Only you can decide if you should walk away or not,
but I'd be wary since you should at least know who
the maker is.

EMF's website lists a new shipment of .54 Sharps Carbines
made by Pedretti & Sons, sale priced at $729.90.

http://www.emf-company.com/cart/

 

[Mike OTDP]

Find out who made it. There is a distinct pecking order of repro Sharps. Garrett and Shiloh are good guns - snap it up if it's one of those.

 

[Mac Attack]

I didn't see any tell tale signs of a manufacturer. Can someone tell me how to figure out who the maker is?

 

[OFT]

Is there any markings at all on it?

 

[sharps59]

I would say at that price buy it! before it gets away.
no matter the make.
new ones from any of the inporters are starting over $600. If I remember correctly.
thee should be a name or letters some were on the barrel.

 

[alemonkey]

On my pedersoli (it's a cartridge sharps, but probably the same) it's marked on the bottom of the barrel right in front of the forend. It's easy to miss if you don't know where it is.

 

[Mac Attack]

You snooze you loose. I stopped by the shop today with cash in hand and the intention of buying the rifle but alas it was already sold.

Damn, I should have scooped it up when I had the chance. Oh well, as much as I wanted the rifle I'm probably better off without it anyways.