The film “Quigley Down Under” prominently features a custom-built, single-shot, falling-block rifle chambered in .45-110, a powerful black powder cartridge. This historically-inspired firearm, based on the designs of Christian Sharps, plays a crucial role in the narrative, showcasing its exceptional long-range accuracy and stopping power. The movie’s depiction, while somewhat romanticized, captures the essence of these large-caliber rifles popular in the late 19th century.
The rifle’s significance stems from its contribution to the film’s Western genre authenticity and the narrative’s central theme of skill and precision. The immense power and unique report of the firearm add a dramatic flair, underscoring the protagonist’s prowess as a marksman. While historically, similar Sharps rifles were employed for hunting buffalo and other large game, its portrayal in “Quigley Down Under” elevates it to an iconic symbol of the American West. Its presence adds to the movie’s overall appeal for firearms enthusiasts and history buffs.