I just picked up a Martini Mark 6 in 303 British, and the bore has Metford rifling. I've read varying opinions on what caused the barrels to "shoot out" prematurely - some say it was the cordite, some state jacketed bullets, and others state it was the combination of both of those that was the culprit. So who's right? Reason I'm asking is I want to shoot this old girl, while still being respectful to its limitations.
What are the do's and don'ts of Metford rifling?
- Thread starter Killer Kanuck
- Start date
bdft
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
Talk to these guys, they've forgotten more about Martini Henrys, Metfords and Enfields than most people know.
http://britishmilitariaforums.yuku.com/
http://britishmilitariaforums.yuku.com/
- Location
- Tucson, Arizona
It was the hot burning cordite which eroded the throat. Metford rifling was designed for Black powder.
ANY Lee Enfield/metford NEVER used anything but jacketed bullets.
ANY Lee Enfield/metford NEVER used anything but jacketed bullets.
