Caught a portion of History Channel this morning which featured the Zulu
wars. The Martini-Henry Rifle was used there and the rate of fire initially
was such that many soldiers were firing at arms length because of bruised
shoulders and hands were burnt by hot barrels. This resulted in poor
accuracy and the problem was aggravated by the slow delivery of ammunition
due to secure ammunition boxes and quartermasters regulations.
The other (possible) South African connection is that a Commandant
Lonsdale was sole survivor of Isandlwana. I guess he had a fast
horse
and was sent for re-inforcements! Probably could have used a V8 90..
Paul Lonsdale
Quartermaster---- Would you like a Martini Henry?
Commandant Henry Lonsdale---No thanks, I'd prefer a White Horse
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