Boer War, Westley Richards Martini Henry Rifle

Image Gallery:

Product Information

This is a rare Boer War, Westley Richards Martini Henry Rifle, dated 1897. They were made specially for the Boers using the Martini action but had an improved Francotte patent breech mechanism. This design feature enabled the complete action to be removed by unscrewing the large screw at the bottom front edge of the receiver. This feature is unique to the ZAR Martini's. The initials ZAR stand for 'The South African Republic' or in Dutch: Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek. The Boer's used them in numerous battles against the British during Second Boer war, 1899 to 1902.

A unique feature on this particular example is the markings in the wood work between the receiver and the barrel band. These types indentations or markings are often attributed to kills made by the owner of this rifle. The repair to to the same section would confirm that this Martini was involved in action with the Boers.

The republic, under the premiership of Paul Kruger, defeated British forces in the First Boer War and remained independent until the end of the Second Boer War on 31 May 1902, when it was forced to surrender to the British. The territory of the South African Republic became known after this war as the Transvaal Colony.

The example is chambered in .577/450  obsolete calibre and has a great condition bore with strong rifling throughout. It has a full working action and can be cocked, stripped an dry fired.

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

Product Code: 1ZAS8

OUT OF STOCK