*British, 1872, Enfield Martini-Henry Mark I updated to Mark II Royal Irish Constabulary (R.I.C.) Carbine, Deactivated*
A deactivated Enfield Martini-Henry Mark II .577/450 two-band carbine rifle, with lock plate stamped ‘VR Enfield 1872 II’. Fitted with pop-up ladder sights, steel ramrod, and 54 cm rifled barrel (overall length approx. 96 cm). The butt stock bears a brass plaque inset stamped ‘R.I.C. 5979’ (Royal Irish Constabulary rack number) alongside an Enfield roundel with ‘RM Enfield IIII 2’ and crown. Accompanied by a Birmingham Proof House deactivation certificate.
This is an early, second-year production Martini-Henry under-lever rifle. Manufactured at Enfield in 1872, it was originally chambered in .577/450 and began life as a Mark I. The Mark I was the first official service model adopted in 1871, with production ending in 1876. In 1877 the Mark II was introduced, and most Mk I rifles—including this one—were upgraded to Mk II standard. The extra “I” in the Roman numeral on the receiver confirms this conversion.
Historical Note
The Royal Irish Constabulary adopted shortened Martini-Henry carbines for constabulary duties, particularly for mounted patrols and internal security in Ireland. The compact two-band format was ideal for transport and urban deployment. Early 1872-dated examples are especially sought after. Many, like this one, were arsenal-upgraded to Mk II and later reissued with inspection marks, brass RIC discs, and rack numbers.
The Martini–Henry is a breech-loading single-shot rifle with a lever action that the British Army used. It first entered service in 1871, eventually replacing the Snider–Enfield, a muzzle-loader converted to the cartridge system. Martini–Henry variants were used throughout the British Empire for 47 years. It combined the dropping-block action first developed by Henry O. Peabody (in his Peabody rifle) and improved by the Swiss designer Friedrich von Martini, combined with the polygonal rifling designed by Scotsman Alexander Henry.
Though the Snider was the first breechloader firing a metallic cartridge in regular British service, the Martini was designed from the outset as a breechloader and was both faster firing and had a longer range.
*Condition*
The carbine retains its original military woodwork with period service wear, light bruising and marks consistent with age. Metalwork shows age-related pitting and dark patina. All markings are visible and legible. The piece is in sound condition for display. The lever works but does not cock and dryfire. Ramrod is missing. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
Marks & Inspection Stamps
Receiver & Action:
-Crown over V.R. / ENFIELD 1872 / Inspection marks
-S.X. at breech — retrofit strengthened extractor modification, 27 June 1885
-Double “R” or mirrored R refurbishment/inspection mark on breech
Stock:
-Brass R.I.C. disc marked R.I.C. 5979
-Enfield roundel with Crown / V.R. / Enfield stamp over "II 2"
-“Double R” mirrored refurb mark repeated on stock
-Crown over B.O. / 80 (believed to be post-service reseller or inspector’s cartouche)
Other Markings:
-Multiple crossed flags proof and inspection stamps on receiver and furniture
-W.D. broad arrow War Department ownership marks
-Enfield inspector’s marks on barrel bands and trigger guard
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