BSA&M Co. Martini-Henry Mk.3 1st Pattern .577/450 Falling Block Rifle, 1883
SOLD FOR: $1,025.00
LSB#: LSB251005DL010
Make: BSA & M Co. (British Small Arms & Machine Company)
Model: Martini-Henry Mk.3 1st Pattern
Serial Number: NSNV
Year of Manufacture: 1883 / Antique
Caliber: .577/450 Martini–Henry
Action Type: Falling block, Single Shot, Lever break
Markings: The right side of the receiver is marked with a crown stamp over “V.R”, “B.S.A. & M. Co.”, “1883.”, with a small proof mark, and “III. I” The barrel shank is marked with various proofs. The stock has a War Department crest and a “D.C.” Dominion of Canada proof”.
Barrel Length: 33.25”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a barleycorn blade on a square base. The rear sight is a v-notch blade when down and a sliding v-notch blade on a ladder when flipped up.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The two-piece wood stock has a straight grip, metal nose cap, cut out for the included cleaning rod, barrel band with bayonet lug & sling loop, barrel band, trigger guard mounted sling loop, lever rest, and a metal buttplate. The buttplate has light oxidation and minor spots erosion at the top. There are faint compression marks, scuffs, and scratches throughout the wood. There is a crack in the wrist with a pin. There are several very small chips throughout. There is light wear along the cleaning rod channel. The LOP measures 14.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good to Fine overall condition as an Antique.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright and the rifling is sharp and well defined. There is some faith spots of erosion in the bore along with a small spot of pitting near the muzzle. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10 for Antique.
Most antique firearms have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but also to the use of black powder. When fired, black powder reacts corrosively. NRA Antique Firearm Conditions Standards are quite lenient for bores. In some cases, the NRA standards disregarded the bore’s condition for collector’s firearms.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 45% of its metal finish. There is moderate thinning and patina throughout with scratches and small nicks throughout, especially on and near the muzzle. There are small spots of rust throughout. There are moderate handling and wear marks throughout. The action has light wear. The screw heads are mostly sharp with some damaged ones. The pins have light marring. The markings are mostly clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good to Fine condition as an Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Martini-Henry Mk. III 1st Pattern represents the mature development of Britain’s iconic single-shot service rifle during the height of the Victorian era. Manufactured in 1883 by the British Small Arms & Machine Company, this example reflects the period when the Martini-Henry had fully proven itself across imperial service, from training grounds to colonial campaigns. The Mk. III incorporated refinements over earlier marks, including changes to the action and furniture, while retaining the long 33.25 inch barrel and robust falling-block mechanism that defined the pattern. The presence of War Department markings and a Dominion of Canada proof adds further historical depth, suggesting secondary service or issue within the broader Commonwealth system. Chambered in .577/450 Martini-Henry, the rifle is paired with one of the most powerful and recognizable black powder military cartridges of the 19th century. Designed to deliver decisive stopping power at long range, the cartridge became synonymous with British infantry service during the late Victorian period. This example’s bore is notably strong for an antique, remaining semi-bright with sharp, well-defined rifling and only minor erosion and localized pitting near the muzzle. Such bore condition is exceptional for a black powder service rifle of this age and speaks to careful maintenance or limited firing in later life. The original sight arrangement remains intact, providing a clear view into period military shooting doctrine.
Overall, this rifle presents as a well-preserved and honest example of a Mk. III 1st Pattern Martini-Henry. The stock shows attractive age with light handling marks, a stabilized wrist crack, and crisp military contours, while the metal retains a pleasing mix of remaining blue and patina consistent with its service history. The original finish, clear markings, and solid mechanical function combine to make this a compelling antique military rifle with both historical significance and strong visual presence. It stands as an excellent representative of late 19th-century British arms production and remains a cornerstone piece for collectors of Victorian-era military firearms. -R.E.
