Sharps pepperbox or replica

[ammodave]

I have a hankering for Sharps pepper box.   I see them regularly on GB but usually in poor condition.  I think replicas were produced by Miroku and Uberti and they pop up from time to time in much better condition (obviously).  Anyone have any experience with the replicas?  Are they fairly accurate copies of the originals?  Forgive me my foolishness but just saw a rerun of the old TV series Yancy Derringer and I can't help myself. 

[Forty Rod]

I'd like one of the Miroku Sharps myself.  Looking forward to the replies that this message generates.

[St. George]

I've used one of the Navy Arms Ubertis for years - beautifully made, accurate, if you stage the barrel/firing pin so that top left is the first round, and reliable.

I even had Jim Downing engrave it after the Italian proof marks were removed.

I own originals as well, but you need to remember that these were made of essentially wrought iron, so .22CB Caps are about the extent of what can be shot.

Scouts Out!

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[Fingers McGee]

I've had one of the Mirokus for about 20 years. It's a hoot to shoot and always generates lots of interest when I break it out on side match day.  Chambered in .22lr, it is pretty accurate at poker table distances.  Grips are American Holly.  It came in a satin lined jewelry box.  No proof marks.  Only 'Japan' on the bottom of the barrels and 'Miroku Japan' on bottom of back strap.

[ammodave]

Other than the markings, are there any differences between the Navy/Uberti and the original Sharps?

[St. George]

Even the markings are interesting.

They did the 'Uberti' marking in a circular style - just like the 'Sharps' marking was done - the 'Navy Arms' is in what would be best referred to as the 'sight trough'.

The grips needed a very minor fitting for grip-to-frame smoothness, and that's all.

Dimensionally - yet without actually measuring, because I just don't care - they're the same size if I put one atop the other - but remember - the grips on these little pistols are on the 'diminutive' size, so if you want to win any side matches, you're going to need to practice.

The 'Navy' pepperboxes were the first - 'Miroku' was second, but both are quite nice and I wouldn't hesitate to buy a spare of either.

Scouts Out!

[ammodave]

Thanks for the info.  Anything to recommend the Uberti over the Miroku?

[St. George]

Nope.

Buy the first one you can find...

Scouts Out!

[ChuteTheMall]

Iver Johnson (the new company) claims to be about to introduce a pepperbox in .22LR, but it doesn't look very authentic.
And I think they have announced it in previous years as well, but it never happened.
Anyway, it seems to be called the Pocket Ace and I'll try to post a pic I googled.
http://files.harrispublications.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2016/02/Iver-Johnson-pocket-ace.jpg

[Long Johns Wolf]

Mine is a Gregorelli & Uberti from 1962.
The makers' mark is circular, too.
All marks are on the right side, the serial number is stamped on the butt.
That's probably the first cartridge fed gun with the Uberti name on it.
Long Johns Wolf