After an extensive search, I've located a excellent carbine for 1200 dollars from of all places an indoor gun range. Lost amongst the racks of AR15s and glocks, hung like a steel and walnut sentinel a lonley and dusty Sharps Carbine. I couldn't belive my eyes as I was just there for some primers. I quickly yelled SOLD before I even spoke to an associate. I was starting to loose hope in my search since I couldn't find an example that didnt look like it was submerged for less than 3k. I asked how long this sharps carbine stood here? The manager said it's been there as long as he could remember...at least 10 years with no interest....go figure as I pass this place everyday.

Anyway, I mookong for some literature on the history of the work and use of the carbines. I'm also curious if these carbines had their own reduced powder charge like other carbines

If a 50/70 cartridge fits, that's what it was for. Measure the chamber. Is it a converted Breech loader or an 1869 Carbine? 

It's a 50-70 convention. 70 grains seems stout for a carbine. 55 to 60 seems more manageable