1872 Enfield Martini Henry .22 Rifle

Image Gallery:

Product Information

An early, second year of production Martini Henry under lever rifle. Originally manufactured by Enfield in 1872, it would have been chambered in .577/450, and would have started life as a MKI. The MKI was first adopted into British service as the standard military rifle in 1871 with production ending in 1876. 1877 saw the introduction of the MKII. The majority of MKI rifles were then upgraded to the then new MKII. This can be seen of this rifle. Once the upgrade was completed the MKI it had an extra 'I' roman numeral added to the right of the original one. Martini rifles like this were used during the Zulu War and most famously at the Battle of Rorke's Drift in 1879, when against seemingly overwhelming odds around 150 British and colonial troops successfully defended the garrison against an intense assault by 3,000 to 4,000 Zulu warriors.

After useful military service this rifle was retired and re-calibred to .22, often for cadet or training purposes. On this particular example the work was carried out London Small Arms Co Ltd for the Society of Miniature Rifle Clubs (SMRC). On the barrel is reads "Guaranteed All British".

The bore is still in excellent condition and action crisp and tight. An FAC is required with the correct variation to purchase this rifle. Can be deactivated to order with a working action.

To order Call 01547 529093 or 05603 416575 or email sales@deactivated-guns.co.uk.

Product Code: 18723

OUT OF STOCK