Gew 71/84 and Khyber pass Martini Enfield .303

[H Wally]

Was at the Kamloops show today and picked up two nice new guns.

Of course, I am only vaguely aware of their history.

First was a Mauser 71/84, all matching, vg condition with beautiful bore and lovely action. The forestock was cut down at some point and then rebuilt, but that's ok. I had 5 rds of ammo for it, so thought it'd be a good purchase

What'd it be worth, and, though I understand that the bore sized varied a lot, I was told that a 45 cal pistol bullet at 300 gr would suit it for plinking. Anyone have experiences with loading for this old girl? Bullets, grains, powder etc?

Second, well, I had a moment on this gun. I probably wouldn't have bought it if I'd taken the time, but I really have been wanting a .303 martini. After I bought it I came to my senses and realised it was at best an ishapore, but almost 100% a Khyber pass gun.

Value? I know I paid too much without saying, but I'm hoping I'll actually be able to shoot it and enjoy it anyways. Any opinions?

 

[ben hunchak]

The bore diameter is supposed to be .446", and used a 370 gr. bullet with a case full of black powder, your .452" pistol bullets would probably work if they chamber okay. Bore should be slugged to determine proper sizing, M.T. Chambers makes bullets for the .43 and are of the original profile. The action can take light smokeless loads comparable to the old CIL factory loads which were smokeless and produced approx. 1350 fps. Brass is avail. from Buff. at $1 each and they also sell the dies.

 

[bdft]

That Martini is a dead ringer for the "Shapore" I used to own. Mine had the top handguard though. I took a good look at mine and decided it was safe to shoot. Martini actions are very strong anyway. 12 inch groups at 50 yds.

 

[H Wally]

Yah, it's a tight gun, but methinks it may get a load worked up for it. Going to slug the barrel and then start small and increase loads to see what works. There's room on the fore stock for a hand guard, so I may as well see if I can make one. Any idea on worth?

 

[bdft]

I paid 250.00 for mine and sold it for 250.00 if I remember correctly. I paid 400.00 for a 303 Martini sporting rifle last fall. In my experience, it's hard to find a full length, full wood 303 Martini that was actually made in England. Post it on British militaria forums and see what they think. Those guys live and breathe Martinis.
http://britishmilitariaforums.yuku.com/