THE MARTINI-ENFIELD RIFLE IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA Part II THE PROCUREMENT OF .303 INCH CALIBRE MARTINI ARMS BY WESTERN AUSTRALIA

WA Museum Records and Supplements | Updated 1 decade ago

Abstract - The examination ofthe three groups of unique Martini-Enfield Modified, W.A. Pattern rifles, discussed in Parts I and II, is extended to include discussion of the Pattern] 888 sword bayonet which accompanied them to W.A. The use ofthis bayonet on W.A. Martini-Enfield arms is an extension of a purchasing policy for this combination which began in 1893-95 and continued in W.A. through to the early Federation period. The exclusive use of the Pattern 1888 bayonet on its .303 inch Martini-Enfield rifles between ]898- I900 sets W.A. apart from all other users of the Martini-Enfield throughout Australia and possibly the world. Evidence is examined which indicates that W.A. never issued the Sealed Pattern Martini-Enfield or the accompanying Pattern 1895 socket bayonet as has hitherto been supposed.