Description
Item Description
Bryant Ridge Co. is pleased to present this antique 4-barrel derringer for a penny-start auction; this is the Sharps & Hankins Model 3B.
SPECIFICATIONS:
Manufacturer: Sharps & Hankins (C. Sharps & Co.)
Model: 3B
Serial: 7227
Caliber: Known to be .32 Rimfire
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 3 ½"
Optics/Sights: Fixed
Stock/Grips: Checkered Synthetic
Action: 4-Barrel “Pepperbox” with Rotating Firing Pin
Markings: Standard / The pistol bears the marking "ADDRESS SHARPS & HANKINS, PHILADELPHIA, PENN" in the flute on top of the barrels, and on the right side of the frame, it reads "C. SHARPS PATENT JAN.25, 1859.”
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Sharps & Hankins Model 3B pepperbox pistol represents a compact and well-executed example of mid-19th-century American personal-defense arms, combining mechanical ingenuity with solid workmanship. Produced by C. Sharps & Co., later operating under the Sharps & Hankins partnership, this four-barrel pistol was chambered in .32 rimfire and designed for reliability and ease of carry. Unlike earlier rotating-barrel pepperboxes, the Model 3B employed a fixed barrel cluster with a revolving firing pin, allowing successive shots without rotating the barrels themselves. This system contributed to its smooth operation and sturdy feel, traits often remarked upon by collectors today. Typical examples bear crisp markings such as “Address Sharps & Hankins, Philadelphia, Penn.” along with “C. Sharps Patent Jan. 25, 1859,” reinforcing its clear identification and period authenticity.
Model: 3B
Serial: 7227
Caliber: Known to be .32 Rimfire
Finish: Blue
Barrel Length: 3 ½"
Optics/Sights: Fixed
Stock/Grips: Checkered Synthetic
Action: 4-Barrel “Pepperbox” with Rotating Firing Pin
Markings: Standard / The pistol bears the marking "ADDRESS SHARPS & HANKINS, PHILADELPHIA, PENN" in the flute on top of the barrels, and on the right side of the frame, it reads "C. SHARPS PATENT JAN.25, 1859.”
Bryant Ridge's Analysis:
The Sharps & Hankins Model 3B pepperbox pistol represents a compact and well-executed example of mid-19th-century American personal-defense arms, combining mechanical ingenuity with solid workmanship. Produced by C. Sharps & Co., later operating under the Sharps & Hankins partnership, this four-barrel pistol was chambered in .32 rimfire and designed for reliability and ease of carry. Unlike earlier rotating-barrel pepperboxes, the Model 3B employed a fixed barrel cluster with a revolving firing pin, allowing successive shots without rotating the barrels themselves. This system contributed to its smooth operation and sturdy feel, traits often remarked upon by collectors today. Typical examples bear crisp markings such as “Address Sharps & Hankins, Philadelphia, Penn.” along with “C. Sharps Patent Jan. 25, 1859,” reinforcing its clear identification and period authenticity.
Historically, the Model 3B is closely tied to Christian Sharps, one of the most influential American firearms inventors of the era, whose name is more commonly associated with the famous Sharps rifles and carbines of Civil War fame. Produced in relatively limited numbers—approximately 2,000 examples—the pepperbox pistol reflects the demand for compact, multi-shot handguns during a time of rapid technological transition from percussion to metallic cartridge arms. While not a primary military sidearm, it was a popular civilian handgun noted for its clean lines, durable construction, and practical design. Today, the Model 3B is regarded as a desirable antique collectible, with strong interest driven by its rarity, distinctive mechanism, and historical connection to the Sharps & Hankins enterprise. Well-preserved examples, particularly those retaining original blueing and case coloration, command notable attention in the collector market and serve as tangible artifacts of American firearms innovation in the 1860s.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Return Policy:
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Shipping Details
Handgun Standard Shipping with Insurance $50.00
Long Gun Standard Shipping with Insurance $70.00
Any orders placed with magazines that are not compliant with your state, county, or city regulations will not ship with your order.
We strive to ship orders within the close of the following business day after payment and documentation is received.
Payment Details
We accept all forms of Payment including Personal Check, Business Check, PO Money Orders, Certified Check, Etc.
Please note we place a 7 business day hold on shipment, for all non-certified payments.
Payment MUST be received within 14 days.
Return Policy
We gladly offer a 3 day unfired inspection policy from the time that the firearm is delivered to your FFL. Refunds are available for all qualifying orders.
Additional Details
Our #1 priority is customer satisfaction. We want to build a lasting trust in the relationship with our customers, so that you will always look to us for all your firearms needs. If you have any issues with your transactions please contact us, and we will work with you to resolve any issues you may have. We greatly appreciate your trust in us and we look forward to fulfilling all your future firearm needs.
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About Us
From a small town hobby, to a leader in the investment and collector grade firearms industry. Bryant Ridge Firearms is here to offer the best in quality and customer service when you are looking to unload your collector grade firearm collection.
