The 1877 Model rifle was originally conceived as a target rifle for the then fast-growing sport of long-range target shooting. Sometimes referred to as the “Creedmoor” Sharps, because of the first matches held at the Creedmoor on Long Island, the 1877 Model was purpose-built for rifle matches shot at 800, 900, and 1000 yards.
A strict weight limit of 10 pounds was imposed on these match rifles which resulted in the 1877 Model action which is a lightened version of the 1874 Model. The lightened receiver and lock work was necessary to allow the heaviest and longest practical barrel to be used while staying at or under the 10-pound weight limit.
Original rifles utilized barrel blanks imported from the Rigby Gun Company in England as well as locks that were sourced from the AAA Gun Co. also of England. This has led to these rifles sometimes being referred to as the “English Sharps”.