Need help deciding what type of Snider-Enfield to buy.

[Ridolpho]

Gentlemen (and Ladies?): I'm planning to buy a Snider-Enfield with the intention of reloading and shooting it. Plenty for sale and I'd love to get some advice as to whether the Mark III with steel barrel is the way to go. These would be mechanically best (I assume) but lack some of the interest value of the preceding conversions. Maybe individuals with lots of experience actually shooting these rifles could offer some thoughts. Thanks, in advance.

Ridolpho

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[Patrick Chadwick]

Plenty for sale and I'd love to get some advice as to whether the Mark III with steel barrel is the way to go. These would be mechanically best (I assume)...

Yes. Generally "lower mileage". The catch on the trapdoor (breech latch) also makes for a more reassuring action.

... but lack some of the interest value of the preceding conversions.

Don't agree. My Snider III is actually a 3-Band 1853 Enfield converted to a Snider III, maybe after a first conversion to a Snider I. Go here for a lot of pics and info:

http://britishmilitariaforums.yuku.c...der-III?page=1

Very interesting, don't you think? And a beauty, as well!

BTW, the forum above is the best source for info on early British military firearms. I recommend a leisurely read-around to advance your Snider know-how! And please note the extensive markings on the barrel. The market is awash with Khyber Pass copies, but I have not yet seen one that got these markings quite right. Look very, very carefully before buying!


Patrick