Those of use who study, collect and shoot Martini's have become quit concerned of late about some of the Martini's be offered on the Market. We have decide to get the word out.
The are a great number that can be called little more than forgeries. There is only one company selling genuine orginal Martini Henry rifles. This is IMA-Atlanta Cutlery. There are some dealers with individual original rifles. The Auction markets are full of these questionable rifles.
Before you buy a Martini I suggest you visit Jason Atkins website on the Martini at
www.martinihenry.com. Not only will you learn about the Martini but you wil also find some good information on identify of the forgeries. The Martini forum at Gunboards has put up a post in identifing the fakes as has the Martini forum on British Militaria. Visit those boards and learn before you spend your money.
Here's just one hint of something to look for. Martini's are marked V.R. for Victoria Regina, No Martini with V.R. should be dated after 1901. Queen Victoria died in 1901 and VR would not have been placed on rifle after 1901. There are legitimate MH's and ME's made after 1901.
This one is real:
This one is fake:
The fakes are of questionalbe metalurgy and construction. Bores are not correct diameter and chambers are not correct shape, some made with little more that twist drills. If the seller says not for shooting believe it.
If you are thinking of buying a MH great, just do your research first.
