I am considering a MH MKIV long lever, partially due to the fact
that you don't need a firearms license to have one in Canada if
chambered over .34 Caliber. I don't like the idea of having to
cobble together smokeless blackpowder equivalent loads with the old
barrel on it, and fiddling with wadding. Cleaning BP fouling is not
my idea of fun, especially with a gun you can only clean from the
muzzle. So, would it be possible( although darned expensive) to
have a modern replacement bbl chambered for .577/450 fitted,
original profile. Only problem I see is that even if the action and
bbl was strong enough, the load was meant for blackpowder only,
would the brass be strong enough, is it even practical. I
understand during WWI, at least one Jacketed spitzer type load was
developed for the MH for anti zeppelin use. I contacted one
authority on the subject, and asked the gentleman if rebarreled
with a modern barrel and Neidner firing pin, would it be okay for
smokeless, the guy said it would be about comparable to a Ruger #1.
Does this jive? I'm thinking that it could be rechambered as long as it's no longer than the original round it was designed for. It's big bad and ugly that's for sure. Thought the addition of a modern barrel would offer a greater margin of safety, although purists out there might be cringing now. Any information from the Martini Henry gods would
be greatly appreciated. Best Wishes for the New Year!
