Martini-Henry Rifle

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	Weapon: Martini-Henry Rifle Type: Infantry Rifle Country of Origin: United Kingdom Year Adopted: 1871 Overall Length (mm): 1250.0 Overall Length (in): 49.21 Weight (kg): 4.00 Weight (pounds): 8.82

The Martini-Henry rifle, adopted by the British Army in 1871, was a single-shot, lever-operated rifle chambered for the .577/450 Martini-Henry cartridge. It was developed as a replacement for the Snider-Enfield and became famous for its role in various British colonial conflicts, including the Anglo-Zulu War.

The Martini-Henry was in service from 1871 to 1891 and was praised for its stopping power and range. It was particularly favored in colonial warfare where long-range engagements were common. The rifle's breech-loading design allowed for faster reloading compared to muzzle-loaders, a significant advantage on the battlefield.

Although eventually replaced by bolt-action rifles like the Lee-Metford, the Martini-Henry remains iconic in British military history. Its role in battles like Rorke's Drift during the Anglo-Zulu War helped cement its place in popular culture as one of the defining firearms of the British Empire.

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