8/10/2023 0 Comments Francotte patent .303 rifleThe pivoting breechblock worked by an underlever was patented by Henry Peabody of Boston in 1862. In technical terms the Martini is often called a “falling block” design, but a more accurate description is a “pivoting block” action – leaving the Alexander Henry, the Guedes and the Sharps as examples of true “falling block” rifles. This is a Peabody supplied to the Spanish. Peabody’s original design with outside hammer. To which Nigel Green as Colour Sergeant Bourne replies “And a bayonet, Sir! With some guts behind it!” In the film, the late Stanley Baker, in the role of Lieutenant Chard, ascribes their survival as “If it’s a miracle, Colour Sergeant, it’s a short chamber Boxer Henry point 45 calibre miracle”. Although containing minor historical inaccuracies, the film remains a stirring spectacle of courage both by the British and their Zulu opponents. Many collectors’ fascination with the Martini began with the defence of Rorke’s Drift depicted in the 1964 film “ Zulu“. The Martini-Henry rifle is one of the great classic arms of all time, instantly recognisable as a major tool in the building of the British Empire. In the shadow of the mountain: Re-enactors of the 24th form up at Isandlwana.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |