Martini Henry lever pops open on its own when cocked.

[StrelokM38]

Picked up a Martini Henry recently, found that the lever really doesn't like staying shut when it's in a cocked state, the lever will just open up under the same spring pressure it seems. Just wondering If bought myself a worn/non functioning gun.

Thanks!

 

[Klondiker]

Is this a new in box purchase or a second hand with an unknown round count?

Edit...Nevermind, I just noticed the forum I posted in

If it's new in box, well done! lol

 

[barbarossa]

I would disassemble the action and take a look as someone might of had it apart and put back together wrong

 

[B_noser]

The lever is supposed to click into the metal pocket in the underside of the butt. Perhaps the end of the lever needs to be bent slightly so it will make positive engagement.

 

[CMichaud]

IIRC the cup has a C spring "clip" that helps put tension on the lever. Maybe yours is stuck or broke. Small pin goes through stock to hold the cup in

IMA lists replacement for Mk IV here https://www.ima-usa.com/products/british-martini-henry-mkiv-rifle-stock-cup-in-brass-with-original-spring?variant=38444934917

 

[StrelokM38]

The lever is supposed to click into the metal pocket in the underside of the butt. Perhaps the end of the lever needs to be bent slightly so it will make positive engagement.

Okay, that makes much more sense. Likely the issue too since it doesn't click whatsoever. Is there anything else I should check in terms of the lockup?

First time i've dealt with a rifle like this, pretty rough on the outside but the bore is incredibly crisp for its age, as well as being a black powder gun.

 

[StrelokM38]

Starting to look back into this rifle again.

Looks like I have a MkV Martini Henry. It's got the long lever and i've noticed a few issues.

The stock cup is more or less done. Full of gunk and worn, there's no real hope of getting that to retain the lever any longer.

Also noticed the cocking indicator is also chipped on one side, and it offers a lot of play in the hole it fits through. If that hole is worn out, do I have a wallhanger or would a replacement indicator fix that? Would love to get this thing shooting again as the rifling/bore is in very good condition.

Lastly, the rear sight definitely needs replacement, how difficult is it to replace those normally? Found that there isn't much available for MKV martini's as far as donor/replacement parts go.

Any help would be appreciated!

 

[infideleggwelder]

Is it the indicator itself that is chipped, or the head of the screw that holds it in?

 

[B_noser]

Either way, That would not make it a wall hanger. Over sized holes can be bushed and larger diameter shafts can be made.