Taylors & Company 1874 Down Under Rifle: A Masterpiece for Precision and Heritage

Are you a discerning shooter seeking to connect with the golden age of American marksmanship? Do you require a rifle that combines historical authenticity with exceptional long-range accuracy? For enthusiasts of classic firearms, competitive target shooters, and hunters who appreciate traditional power, the Taylors & Company 1874 Down Under Rifle in .45-70 Government caliber stands as an unparalleled choice. This iconic single-shot rifle, meticulously reproduced to honor the legendary Sharps design, offers a unique blend of heritage, performance, and craftsmanship.

Imagine stepping onto the firing line, rifle in hand, ready to engage targets hundreds of yards away. Or perhaps you envision a challenging hunt where a single, well-placed shot from a powerful, traditional cartridge is paramount. The Taylors & Company 1874 Down Under is engineered for these precise scenarios, delivering the accuracy, reliability, and satisfying recoil that only a big-bore, falling-block rifle can provide. This particular model, designated 138CABLU, represents the pinnacle of Taylors & Company's commitment to quality reproductions, offering a 32-inch octagonal barrel, a beautiful oil walnut stock, and a distinctive color case hardened receiver, all configured for the right-handed shooter.

Why Choose the Taylors & Company 1874 Down Under?

For many, the appeal of a Sharps rifle reproduction goes beyond mere aesthetics; it's about embracing a piece of history that defined a nation and its frontiers. The original 1874 Sharps was a workhorse, a formidable tool for buffalo hunters, military sharpshooters, and competitive target shooters across the vast American West. Taylors & Company brings that legacy to life with the 1874 Down Under, ensuring that modern shooters can experience the same performance and connection to the past.

• Unrivaled Long-Range Accuracy: The 32-inch heavy octagonal barrel is not just historically accurate; it's a foundation for exceptional precision. This extended sight radius, combined with the rifle's inherent stability, makes it an ideal platform for hitting distant targets, whether in competition or open country.
• Powerful .45-70 Government Caliber: This historic cartridge remains a favorite for its significant knockdown power and excellent ballistic properties for long-range shooting. It's perfectly suited for hunting large game across North America or excelling in black powder cartridge silhouette matches.
• Authentic 1874 Sharps Falling Block Action: Known for its strength, simplicity, and reliability, the falling block action allows for easy single-round loading and ensures consistent lock-up. This robust design makes it incredibly durable and trustworthy in various conditions.
• Exquisite Craftsmanship and Materials: From the rich oil walnut stock to the vibrant color case hardened receiver, every detail speaks of quality. These traditional finishes not only enhance the rifle's beauty but also provide lasting durability, ensuring this firearm can be cherished for generations.
• Specialized Sighting System: Equipped with a globe front sight and a mid-range tang sight, the 1874 Down Under is ready for precision shooting right out of the box. This sight combination is period-correct and provides the fine adjustments necessary for challenging long-range engagements.

The Heart of the Rifle: Precision and Power

The combination of the robust 1874 Sharps action and the venerable .45-70 Government cartridge is central to this rifle's appeal. How does a single-shot rifle with a 32-inch barrel perform in modern shooting scenarios?

• The .45-70 Government Cartridge: Originally developed for military use in 1873, the .45-70 Gov quickly proved its worth as a potent hunting cartridge, capable of taking down North America's largest game, including buffalo and bear. Today, it remains a popular choice for:
  • Big Game Hunting: Its heavy, slow-moving projectiles deliver immense energy upon impact, making it effective for deer, elk, moose, and bear within its effective range.
  • Long-Range Target Shooting: Especially in its original black powder configuration, the .45-70 excels in historical shooting disciplines like Black Powder Cartridge Rifle (BPCR) Silhouette, where accuracy at 200, 300, 500, and even 1000 yards is required.
  • Collector and Enthusiast Shooting: For those who appreciate the history and feel of classic American cartridges.
• The 32-inch Octagonal Barrel: What are the advantages of such a long barrel?
  • Increased Muzzle Velocity: A longer barrel allows more time for the propellant gases to accelerate the bullet, typically resulting in higher muzzle velocities and flatter trajectories, especially beneficial for long-range shots.
  • Enhanced Sight Radius: The greater distance between the front and rear sights significantly improves aiming precision, reducing minute aiming errors at extended distances.
  • Reduced Recoil Sensation: The heavier weight of a long, thick octagonal barrel helps absorb recoil, making the powerful .45-70 Government more comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
  • Improved Stability: The sheer mass and rigidity of the barrel contribute to better accuracy by minimizing barrel whip and vibrations during firing.
• The 1874 Sharps Falling Block Action: This action is a marvel of simplicity and strength. How does it operate?
  • The lever under the receiver is lowered, which drops the breechblock, exposing the chamber for loading.
  • A single cartridge is inserted directly into the chamber.
  • Raising the lever closes the action, securely locking the breechblock in place and cocking the hammer.
  • This robust design is inherently strong, capable of handling powerful cartridges, and is known for its reliability and durability in the field. Its ease of cleaning and maintenance is another significant benefit.

Building Trust: The Taylors & Company Standard

When investing in a reproduction firearm, trust in the manufacturer is paramount. Taylors & Company has built a sterling reputation over decades for producing high-quality, historically accurate replicas of classic American and Old West firearms. Their commitment to authenticity ensures that the 1874 Down Under isn't just a look-alike, but a functional firearm that truly embodies the spirit and performance of its historical predecessor.

• Attention to Detail: From the precise machining of the action to the authentic oil finish on the walnut stock and the vibrant, unique patterns of the color case hardening, Taylors & Company ensures that every detail aligns with the original Sharps rifles. This meticulous approach results in a firearm that feels and performs like a true historical artifact.
• Reliability and Durability: While designed for historical accuracy, these rifles are built to modern standards of quality and safety. The robust falling block action is designed to withstand the pressures of modern .45-70 Government loads, ensuring a lifetime of dependable service.
• Support for the Shooting Sports: Taylors & Company actively supports historical shooting disciplines and cowboy action shooting, understanding the needs of their target audience and continuously refining their products to meet the demands of competitive and recreational shooters alike.

Who is the Taylors & Company 1874 Down Under For?

This specific rifle, with its unique characteristics, caters to a particular set of interests and needs. Is this the right firearm for you?

• The Historical Firearms Collector: For those who appreciate the iconic designs that shaped American history, the 1874 Down Under is a cornerstone piece, representing one of the most significant rifles of the Old West era. Its historical accuracy and exquisite finish make it a prized addition to any collection.
• The Competitive Long-Range Shooter: If you participate in Black Powder Cartridge Rifle (BPCR) Silhouette or other long-range historical shooting matches, the 32-inch barrel, precision sights, and powerful .45-70 Government cartridge make this rifle an exceptional tool for achieving high scores.
• The Traditional Hunter: For the hunter who values skill, tradition, and the stopping power of a classic cartridge, the .45-70 Gov in the 1874 Down Under offers a unique and effective means to pursue large game. The single-shot nature encourages thoughtful, precise shot placement.
• The Enthusiast of Craftsmanship: Anyone who values finely made objects will appreciate the artistry in the color case hardening, the beauty of the oil walnut stock, and the solid feel of a well-built firearm.
• Someone Asking: "What is the best single-shot rifle for authentic historical shooting competitions?" or "Where can I find a high-quality reproduction of a Sharps rifle for hunting?"

Maintenance and Care

Owning a firearm of this quality also means understanding its care. The color case hardened finish, while stunning, benefits from regular, light oiling to prevent rust and preserve its vibrant colors. The oil walnut stock should be periodically cleaned and re-oiled to maintain its luster and protect the wood. As a single-shot falling block, cleaning the bore is straightforward from the breech end, which helps prevent wear at the muzzle. Proper cleaning after each shooting session, especially when using black powder loads (as is common in historical shooting disciplines), is crucial for preserving the rifle's condition and ensuring long-term reliability.

The Taylors & Company 1874 Down Under rifle, model 138CABLU, is more than just a firearm; it's an heirloom, a historical link, and a precision instrument designed to perform. It invites its owner to slow down, aim carefully, and appreciate the rich history and satisfying power of a classic American rifle. This magnificent rifle, along with a wide array of other quality firearms and accessories, is available at DEGuns, a trusted source for your shooting needs.

Taylors & Company 1874 Down Under Specifications

Feature	Detail	UPC
Model	1874 Down Under	839665008064
Manufacturer	Taylors & Company
SKU/MPN	138CABLU
Caliber	.45-70 Government
Action	Falling Block (Single Shot)
Barrel Length	32 Inches
Barrel Type	Octagonal
Stock Material	Oil Walnut
Receiver Finish	Color Case Hardened
Barrel Finish	Blued
Sights	Globe Front, Mid-Range Tang
Hand	Right Hand
Capacity	1 Round
Overall Length	Approx. 49 Inches
Weight	Approx. 11 lbs
Available At	DEGuns.com