I Have This Old Gun: British Enfield .476 Revolvers

Published on July 3, 2024
Duration: 6:38

This video delves into the history and technical aspects of British Enfield revolvers, specifically the Mark I and Mark II models. It highlights their development in the late 19th century as Britain's attempt to standardize sidearms, contrasting them with contemporary Colt and Smith & Wesson designs. The discussion covers their calibers, unique features like the Owen Jones selective ejection system, and their service history, particularly with the Northwest Mounted Police.

Quick Summary

The British Enfield Mark I and Mark II revolvers were developed in the late 19th century. The Mark I was .42 caliber, while the Mark II was .476 caliber, featuring a unique Owen Jones selective ejection system that proved ineffective. These revolvers saw service with British troops and notably with the Northwest Mounted Police.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Enfield Mark I and Mark II Revolvers
  2. 00:17Mid-19th Century British Sidearm Requirements
  3. 00:37Cap and Ball Era: Beaumont-Adams
  4. 00:44Self-Contained Cartridge Era: Adams Conversion
  5. 01:04Enfield Mark I Adoption (1879)
  6. 01:15Enfield Mark II Adoption (.476 Caliber)
  7. 01:30.476 Caliber Cartridge Details
  8. 01:50Issue to Royal Navy and British Troops
  9. 01:57Northwest Mounted Police Use
  10. 02:15British Handgun History Context
  11. 02:50Enfield Design: Top Break vs. Cylinder Gate
  12. 03:53Owen Jones Selective Ejection System
  13. 04:44Enfield vs. Colt/Smith & Wesson Aesthetics
  14. 05:12Limited Service Life and Colonial Use
  15. 05:33Notable Use by the Mounties
  16. 05:57Mark II Improvements Over Mark I
  17. 06:24Northwest Rebellion Mention

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main British revolvers discussed in the video?

The video focuses on the British Enfield Mark I and Mark II revolvers. It also touches upon earlier firearms like the Beaumont-Adams and Adams conversions, and mentions contemporary competitors like Colt and Smith & Wesson.

What caliber was the Enfield Mark II revolver chambered in?

The Enfield Mark II revolver was chambered in the .476 caliber. This cartridge featured a unique balloon-headed bullet with a hollow base and a clay plug.

What was the Owen Jones selective ejection system on the Enfield revolvers?

The Owen Jones system was designed to allow the user to eject only spent cartridges when the revolver was broken open, while retaining any unfired rounds in the cylinder. However, it was found to be largely ineffective in practice.

Which law enforcement agency notably used the British Enfield revolvers?

The Canadian Northwest Mounted Police (later Royal Northwest Mounted Police) were significant users of the British Enfield revolvers. They employed these firearms extensively from the 1890s into the early 20th century.

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