Lyman Sharps

Lyman Sharps was an American firearms manufacturer who made a name for himself during the mid-19th century. He was known for designing and producing some of the most accurate and reliable rifles of his time.

Born in Hartland, Vermont, in 1813, Sharps started his career as an apprentice in a gunsmithing shop. He learned the trade and eventually became a master gunsmith himself. In 1851, he established his own manufacturing company, called "C. Sharps & Co." in Mill Creek, Pennsylvania.

Sharps quickly gained a reputation for making high-quality guns that met the demands of hunters and marksmen. He was particularly well-known for his breech-loading rifles, which allowed for quicker loading times and more accuracy than the traditional muzzle-loading rifles of the time.

One of Sharps' most famous inventions was the "Sharps Rifle," which was used extensively during the American Civil War. These rifles were designed to fire a .52 caliber bullet and had a range of up to 1,000 yards. They were highly valued by sharpshooters and were considered one of the most accurate rifles of the time.

In addition to his rifles, Sharps also produced pistols and shotguns. His guns were popular not only in the United States but also in Europe, where they were used for big game hunting in Africa and India.

After Sharps' death in 1874, his company continued to produce guns under the leadership of his sons. However, the company struggled financially and eventually went bankrupt in 1881.

Despite this, Lyman Sharps' legacy lived on, and his rifles continued to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Today, the Sharps Rifle is considered a classic American firearm and is highly prized for its history and craftsmanship.

Sharps' contribution to the world of firearms is undeniable, and his innovative designs revolutionized the industry. He will always be remembered as one of the greatest gunsmiths of all time.