"Howth" Mauser 1871: Irish Volunteers Gunrunning into Dublin

Published on May 2, 2025
Duration: 17:58

The Mauser Model 1871, known as the 'Howth Mauser,' was a pivotal firearm in Irish history, with 900 units smuggled into Dublin in 1914 for the Irish Volunteers. These German-made, single-shot, bolt-action rifles chambered in 11mm Mauser were part of a larger gunrunning effort to arm Irish nationalists. A notable issue was the use of incompatible French Gras bayonets, requiring crude modifications.

Quick Summary

The 'Howth Mauser' refers to 900 Mauser Model 1871 rifles smuggled into Dublin in 1914 for the Irish Volunteers. These German-made, single-shot, bolt-action rifles in 11mm Mauser were part of a larger gunrunning effort, famously involving the yacht 'Asgard'. A notable issue was the incompatibility of French Gras bayonets, requiring modifications.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: The Howth Mauser 1871
  2. 01:07Historical Context: Irish Independence Movement
  3. 02:45The Asgard Yacht & Gunrunning Operation
  4. 05:20Smuggling Details: Howth Harbor
  5. 08:42Mauser 1871 Technical Specifications
  6. 10:28Bayonet Mismatch & Modifications
  7. 12:54Markings, Provenance & Easter Rising Use

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'Howth Mauser'?

The 'Howth Mauser' refers to the Mauser Model 1871 rifles, specifically 900 of which were smuggled into Dublin in 1914 by the Irish Volunteers. This event is a significant part of Irish history related to the struggle for independence.

How were the Mauser 1871 rifles smuggled into Ireland?

The rifles were smuggled aboard the yacht 'Asgard,' captained by Erskine and Molly Childers. They transported 1,500 rifles from Hamburg, Germany, to Ireland, culminating in a public offloading at Howth Harbor in July 1914.

What were the technical specifications of the Mauser 1871?

The Mauser 1871 was Germany's first metallic cartridge rifle. It's a single-shot, bolt-action firearm chambered in 11mm Mauser (11.15x60mmR) and originally used black powder propellant.

What issue did the Irish Volunteers face with the Mauser 1871 rifles?

A significant problem was the procurement of French Gras bayonets, which were incompatible with the Mauser 1871. This mismatch forced the Irish Volunteers to make crude, ad-hoc modifications to the rifles to attach the bayonets.

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