Martini Metford Cavalry Carbine MkIII
Calibre | 95.5cm |
Date of Approval | Pattern sealed 29.7.1892 |
Length | 37.3” (95.5cm) |
Weight | Weight 6lb 12oz |
Conversion from Martini Henry Rifle MkII.
The Martini Metford MkIII had the new light profile barrel and single part streamlined forend, with a plain ended grooved cleaning rod projecting through a simple pressed steel nosecap. The long cocking indicator is retained from the mother Martini Henry MkII rifle. Sighting was to 2000 yards, and the forsight block is protected by two protector wings.
Originally designed to adapt existing Martini Henry MkII breech blocks, however new .303 blocks were fitted with a narrow loading channel.
Two patterns were manufactured at Enfield, 2500 of the sealed pattern, and 1780 manufactured for the Natal Colonial authorites with a wooden hand guard to protect the user from barrel heat.
On 26.9.1892 a new leather sight protector was designed which is fitted to this carbine.