Fellow Sharpshooters,

For those Sharpshooters who ‘live shoot’ their Shiloh, Garrett, Pedersoli or Armi Sport Sharps and experience breech block “lock up”, (despite installing an O-ring) it may be time for a long overdue ‘tune up’.

Three years ago, Dan and Brian “reached the end of our rope” after their Garrett/Pederosoli Sharps breech blocks stuck fast after only 3-5 shots. On the NSSA website Dan discovered Larry Flees, who had trained under the late Sam Dobbin. Larry continues the ‘O-ring’ tradition, by replacing the stock Italian sleeve insert and machines a custom AMPCO gas check to fit the breech recess. The flange base is inletted to fit the O-ring. When Larry is finished, the Sharps breech block vent is perfectly aligned to the center of the chamber, ensuring a concentrated jet of flame every time.

Dan and Brian shipped their Sharps to Larry and after six weeks Dan called asking if I could pick them up. What? I discovered Larry’s shop was only “two bays over”. Talking with Larry is like standing next to Christian Sharps or Richard Lawrence; as he patiently explains how to convert a “hopeless” Italian Sharps into an NSSA “tack driver”.

Larry explained that no matter which reproduction Sharps sent to him, each has their own unique characteristics. It is the “forensics” of diagnosing why a Sharps malfunctions that most appeals to Larry. He showed me four separate gas check systems Pederosoli developed since 1992, (with varying degrees of success). Most of Larry’s customers contact him through “word of mouth” or had a chance to shoot one of his improved Sharps. As of December 2024, he’s modified 230 percussion Sharps of all makes and models.

Of course, “the proof is in the shooting”. NSSA competitors that shoot ‘Flees improved’ Sharps and Smith carbines are the most demanding competitive black powder shooters today; where first place is measured in seconds, with accuracy in cleared backstops. Larry’s work never disappoints. FYI, In addition to being an outstanding machinist, Larry has won a number of NSSA team and individual awards for competitive shooting.

During my last visit to his shop, Larry reported that more reenactors are now contacting him to work on their Sharps. For those Sharpshooters that want to improve the “shoot ability’ of your Sharps, be aware that demand for Larry’s work tends to peak for the spring Regional and National NSSA shoots. But the improvement to your Sharps will be worth the wait. Larry stands by his product and workmanship.

Larry’s email is: larryflees111@gmail.com

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Bill Skillman
Berdan Sharpshooters Survivors Association