1853 enfield at ISandlwana

were 1853 enfields carried by any defending forces at Isandlwana, and if so were they still using the Pritchett bullet at that time?

The Natal Volunteers were armed with Enfield muzzle-loaders taking a Prichett-type bullet from 1860 until at least 1870 with the mounted units initially using locally shortened Pattern 1853s.  One source indicates that Enfields were still on issue to the Durban Royal Rifles as late as1875.

Following withdrawal they were probably placed in reserve to be supplemented by the acquisition of a further 735 "Enfield Rifles" in September, 1878.  

It is recorded that "Muzzle-loading Percussion Enfields" and Sniders were issued to the Natal Native Contingent on the basis of one rifle to every ten men. As is well known two companies of the N.N.C. formed part of the British line at Isandlwana. On this basis I believe that at least a few Enfields were quite possibly present at Isandlwana. Of course, whether they were actually fired is a very different matter!

I add a photo of a Pat. 1856 Enfield with Natal Volunteer markings.

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thank you sir for the reply. was all the ammunition stored together? it must have been a logistical nightmare.

Sorry, Free,  I have no information on that matter.

Terry

terrylee wrote:

Sorry, Free,  I have no information on that matter.

Terry

thank's anyway for the reply. do you own these firearms sir that you post photos of, and do you fire them?

Hi, Free. Yes, these rifles are all from my collection. Although I very greatly value them as part of our national heritage, I have never bothered to shoot them. Modern rifles are superior in every respect.

Terry

Hi Terry,

I own quite a few vintage firearms and I always shoot the ones I can. I don't doubt that modern ones are superior, but it is most interesting to try to duplicate the shooting of the old days. Just recently fired my 8 bore rifle, a real experience in more ways than one !! I have hunted with black powder double rifles for a number of years and still do now and then. Try it it's fun !!
Nitro450

Hi Nitro,  I hear what you say and have tried it. But, as a serious target shooter of long standing, know that modern rifles are more accurate with fewer variables and less fiddling around.  Also, use does not improve the condition of valuable collector's pieces. Obviously, any owner is free his follow his own inclinations and good luck to him! Its just that I have experienced both approaches and know which I prefer. Terry.

Well Terry, There is the difference between us, I only shoot at targets to sight in. All of mine are for hunting in the main, some items will never see use but those that are in good fettle get the occasional shot put throught them. To me it's a bit like driving vintage cars now and then.
Nitro450.

I have a few "old veterans" that I've retired and no longer shoot, but I also try to replicate the old shooting methods, hence my interest in the Pritchett bullet.