Portuguese Contract, Model 1875 .577 Snider Obsolete Calibre 5 Groove Carbine by B S A & M Co. Sn - 23174:43 Portuguese Contract, Model 1875 .577 Snider Obsolete Calibre 5 Groove Carbine by B S A & M Co. Sn - 23174:43 Single Shot Obsolete Rifle
The Snider Enfield carbine was supplied under contract to the Portuguese Government in 1875. This is one of the carbine was made by B.S.A.& M.Co, and approval was given by the British government of the day as Portugal was considered an ally to Great Britain. These were purpose built Mark III weapons, not conversions and were fitted with the more accurate, desirable 5 groove and the mark 3 breach. The carbine has a 19 inch barrel with an overall length of 37 inches. The carbine is fitted with a plane lock plate which is stamped B S A & M. Co (Birmingham Small Arms & Metals Company) 1875 (date) together with the Royal Crown of Portugal over G.P (Government of Portugal). The carbine is fitted with the locking mark III breech block which is stamped with the Snider patent monogram and BSA Co. the breech block carries the serial number 513. The rear sights consist of a simple ramp graduate 100 to 300 yards and the ladder is marked 400 to 600 yards. The stock carries two screws below the rear sight which would have originally secured a leather sight cover. The barrel carries Birmingham and Portuguese proof marks for 25 bore (.577”). The barrel has mint well defined 5 groove rifling and has a smooth finish. the carbine is fitted with brass furniture and the rear of the trigger guard is extended and retains a round saddle ring. The top of the butt plate is engraved R3 over C 5. The right hand side of the barrel has the Portuguese serial number C720. The wood furniture is in good condition and has minor bumps and bruises to be expected with age and service use. The weapons action and firing mechanism work crisply. The rifle is complete with an inert .577 Snider Round. The price includes UK delivery. NB As an antique obsolete calibre rifle no licence is required to own this item in the UK if retained as part of a collection or display. Sn 23174:43
