I have an Italian Sharps action, with an original 22" .50/70 Sharps carbine barrel(lined 1859 percussion bl.). For a time, it was being shot by a friend, who managed 4 out of 5 rams at 450yards, off cross-sticks with straight BP loads that had been loaded for almost a year. It has original open Sharps sights with blade front and flip-up elevator rear.
: The carbine will work, but a 28" or 30" bl will be better & kick much less. Even with only 76gr.2G, the light Carbine kicks pretty good for accuracy shooting - but a delighful hunting rifle it is.