Serial number locations on martini enfields

[BushyFromOz]

Hi. Ive come across a couple of martini enfields recently and am seriously considering buying one, but i dont understand the serial number locations

All of them have the rear sight numbered to the barrel, but all have different (read vic government) stampings on the buttstock and a different serial number. Is this normal for colonial martini enfields?

Also, were the breech blocks numbered as well?

I have wondered if the number on the buttstock is a rack number for the vic gov and not actually a production serial number

Thanks

Information

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[Flying10uk]

Here is the link for the Martini Henry Society which has a wealth of interesting information and you may find helpful: http://www.martinihenry.org/index.php?route=common/home

[BushyFromOz]

ThankaF10, seen that one.

Does anyone have information on the numbers onthe Australian martini henry / metford / enfield buttstocks are they inventory numbers or are they supposed to match the serial numbers on the barrel and action?

[CINDERS]

Did not Skennerton do a small S/C on the martinis in his small arms series I also seem to recall a larger H/C one as well but cannot remember the title

[BushyFromOz]

Did not Skennerton do a small S/C on the martinis in his small arms series I also seem to recall a larger H/C one as well but cannot remember the title

I have it, i dont remember if it
covered serial number locations though

[BushyFromOz]

Helps if i read everytjing. Found what i needed in Skennertons SAIS book on martini's. There may be a plan afoot, and the wife non to happy about it. More info next week =D

[CINDERS]

I always said for a while "Gee wiz look what followed me home can I keep it!"

[mrclark303]

And that's generally when you get "the look" Cinders...

My wife is generally speaking supportive of my gun collecting, but it has to be accompanied with a sound reason!

I was blown out reasently when my case for another .22 failed the economic test!

[Paratus]

ThankaF10, seen that one.

Does anyone have information on the numbers onthe Australian martini henry / metford / enfield buttstocks are they inventory numbers or are they supposed to match the serial numbers on the barrel and action?

I just bought a Martini Enfield in Australia and the dealer is using the butt disc number as the serial number - four digits, prefixed AGC, which I believe stands for Australian Commonwealth Government. The Real serial number should be on the front of the receiver under the forewood. I haven't been able to check mine as it's still going through the licencing process.

I believe the butt numbers are for inventory purposes.

[mrclark303]

From a British/Commonwealth perspective, I guess it was only when the first Metfords came along, with a possibility of mixing up bolts that serial numbers became far more important.

I would also guess (anyone confirm) that prior to this, with P53/56, Snider and Martini, Rifles remained within the issued regiment, so the butt disc was the primary identifying Mark.