What is this mystery shotgun? Greener Police Shotgun with firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson

Published on August 25, 2021
Duration: 10:29

This video provides an in-depth look at a mystery shotgun, identified as a W.W. Greener Police Shotgun, chambered in .476 India Pattern. Firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson of the Royal Armouries details its unique Martini action, anti-theft features like a necked-down chamber and bolt face projections, and historical context of its use by British colonial police in Egypt and India. The discussion also touches upon its comparison to the standard Greener Mark III 12-bore and various historical conversions.

Quick Summary

Firearms expert Jonathan Ferguson identifies a mystery W.W. Greener shotgun as a .476 India Pattern Police Shotgun. He details its unique Martini action, proprietary cartridge design with anti-theft features like a necked-down chamber and bolt face projections, and its historical use by colonial police in Egypt and India.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Mystery Shotgun
  2. 00:30Greener Police Shotgun History
  3. 01:20Anti-Theft Technical Features
  4. 02:27Comparison with Greener Mark III
  5. 03:51Receiver Markings and Manufacturer
  6. 05:24Mystery Gun Markings and Conversions
  7. 07:03Identification as .476 India Pattern
  8. 08:17Ammunition Details

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the mystery shotgun discussed in the video?

The mystery shotgun is identified as a W.W. Greener Police Shotgun, specifically a variant chambered for the .476 India Pattern cartridge. It features a Martini action and was used by British colonial police forces.

What unique anti-theft features did the Greener Police Shotgun have?

The Greener Police Shotgun incorporated a necked-down chamber and specific projections on the bolt face. These design elements were intended to ensure that only proprietary .476 India Pattern ammunition could be reliably fired, preventing the use of stolen standard ammunition.

What historical context is provided for the Greener Police Shotgun?

The Greener Police Shotgun was used by British colonial police in regions like Egypt and India. Its specialized ammunition was part of a strategy to control firearm use and prevent unauthorized ammunition from being employed against authorities.

How does the Greener Police Shotgun differ from the Greener Mark III?

While both use the Martini action, the Greener Police Shotgun (.476 India Pattern) has a distinct receiver shape and bore size compared to the standard Greener Mark III 12-bore shotgun, reflecting their different intended roles and ammunition.

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