Like most British arms they are the result of evolution not revolution. Original conversions used the Metford barrels (the Martini Metford) but issues with wear from cordite cartridges resulted in the use of Enfield rifled barrels from 1895.
The Martini-Enfield were officially in service 1895 to1903. However they just didn’t fade away but were used as reserve arms particularly in the further reaches of the Commonwealth up until World War 2.. They also saw use in various conflicts well past their use as frontline weapons. One of the more common stories has them used by Lawrence’s Arab troops in the 1916 – 1918 revolt.
They were manufactured/converted by most of the major british arms factories (Enfield, BSA, LSA etc).
First the traditional left side/right side overall views. First noticeable item is the lack of a handguard. Many MkI and MkII’s have them but many don’t. The fore-end is not relieved for the spring clips so the assumption is this one was made without one.
Next the factory markings. The conversions (MkI’s) are marked on the left as the original markings are on the right and the new built (MkII’s) are also on the left. Presumably this is because they are “conversions” of an existing firearm. The right side of the action is bare.
Also on the left side is the second proof mark. I’m not overly familiar with proofing requirements of this era but apparently there was requirement for a first and second proofs. Also visible is an inspectors marking.
Slightly lower on the receiver is the sold out of service marking.
Next shot (left side Knox form) shows the first and second proof marks as well as a couple of inspectors markings, the broad arrow and a sold out of service mark.
The underside of the barrel is profusely stamped. To be honest I recognize the occasional date and inspectors markings but the rest are unknown to me.
The right side of the Knox form has the serial number, an inspectors marking and 0.145. A measurement ? The top of the Knox form has the E for Enfield rifling.
The front of the action carries the serial number as is standard practice. Format was one (or two) letters and a maximum four digits.
A couple of inspectors markings on the trigger guard and lever, which also has the War Department marking. Back of the lever is also marked but I’m unsure of the meanings.
The loading ramp and thumb rest area.
Rear sight is the standard military sight graduated to five hundred yards laying flat and to eighteen hundred yards raised. There is a faint 54 marked on the sight but it is not serialled to the rifle. Possibly a replacement ? My understanding is the sights were usually numbered to the rifle.
The ubiquitous rifling photograph.
Woodwork is in fair condition with two repairs. One to the heel and the other where the butt enters the socket of the action.
Rifle carries a brass disc, NSW marked, but I’m not sure the positioning is standard.
Rear sling swivel is the standard single screw design of the times. I believe this was later carried over to MLM/MLE’s.
Some more obscure markings this time on the butt, the fore-end and in the barrel channel.
The barrel band (with retaining pin) and sling swivel.
The nosecap I’m told indicates the rifle will take the later mark of the Pattern 1887 bayonet. It also takes the Pattern 1895 bayonet and many P1876 bayonets were converted to fit the .303 Martinis. These bayonets hung below the barrel rather than to the side as previous bayonets had. Unfortunately I am yet to procure any bayonet for this rifle as they sell out here in the antipodes for as much as the rifle cost me.
The front “piling” swivel is interesting. More than likely made up by some previous owner who just had to have one. First two piece piling swivel I’ve seen. Note the front wood appears to be cut for a clearing rod. I say appears as the cavity goes only half an inch past the step in the woodwork near the barrel band. As the clearing rod was declared obsolete in 1899 (before the rifle was manufactured) I find this a little confusing. Maybe the woodwork was already configured this way, awaiting final finishing, and it was decided to use it anyway ?
Lastly the very basic front sight.
So there we have it. Not the prettiest rifle I own but a good solid example. Mind you I still lust after Joe's Martini. Maybe one day I'll upgrade. Would really like a Martini Henry to keep it and the Cadets company but that's just a dream for the moment.
I can still dream though!
