Enfield external balastics ?

[sail32]

I am looking for information on the correct, as issued, ammunition specifications for the 1853 and 1858 Enfields. This would include the the issed bullet shape, weight, and muzzle velocity.
The correct front sight hight and offset for the 1858, is also wanted.
I am aware that the Snider used a 480 gr. bullet with a plug that increased the weight, but did the plug stay with the bullet or was it destroyed on firing.
I would prefer a British Ordance reference if possible.
Thank you.

 

[GrantR]

I would recommend that you join "British Militaria Forums" - http://britishmilitariaforums.yuku.com/

Despite the name, the various individual forums are almost exclusively related to 19th Century British Firearms - Martini-Henry, Snider-Enfield, etc. Lots of very knowledgeable - and helpful - people there.

The specific forum there for seeking out the information you want is the "British Flint and Percussion Arms" forum.

Also, one specific online reference site you'll find of assistance, and interest, is - http://www.researchpress.co.uk/firearms/british/index.htm
- in particular, the section entitled "Enfield Paper Cartridges", which gives period details on the bullet and other components, construction of the cartridges, etc.

 

[green]

The plug stays in the bullet.
Mid range trajectory for the .577 Enfield or Snider
500 yd 11.5 ft
1000 yd 76 ft

Enfield bt wt 530 gr
Snider MkIII-IX ctg 480 gr
MV c1200-1250 fps

Bt shape
Enfield RN smooth .550"

Snider RN Hollow Nose 3-4 grooves

 

[green]

Snider bt .572"

 

[sail32]

Thank you, I forgot about the "britishmilitaryforum.yuku.com".
I would have thought the plug would be destroyed. A 530 and a 480 grain bullet would not follow the same flight path. The conversion of an Enfield, to a Snider did not require a sight change according to my information.

 

[green]

From "Military Breech Loading Rifles" 1870 Majendie and Brown, The Royal Artillery Institution

Snider vel 1252 fps

Tajectory height for 500 yd zero

100 6.5 ft
200 10' 9"
300 11' 6"
400 8'4"
500 0

From "Treatise on Mlitary Small Arms and Ammunition 1888" HMSO

vel1240 fps