This video explores a firearm associated with a 19th-century British gentleman. Given the historical context and likely presentation of a specific type of firearm, the content will likely delve into the history, design, and potential use of such a weapon from that era. It aims to provide insights into the weaponry of the period and the individuals who might have carried them.
This lecture from the Royal Armouries delves into the peace campaigns of Richard Cobden, utilizing the 'Letters of Richard Cobden Online' database. Professor Morgan discusses Cobden's involvement in peace movements, his opposition to the Crimean War, his critiques of British imperial actions, and his efforts to prevent British intervention in the American Civil War. The Royal Armouries, the UK's national collection of arms and armour, offers this content as part of their educational outreach, encouraging subscriptions and support.
This online lecture by naval historian Dr. Mark Barton explores the history of the British Royal Navy cutlass from its official adoption in 1804 through its final withdrawal in 2014. The talk covers the motivations behind its adoption during wartime, reasons for its initial inferiority and subsequent rejection of improvements, new patterns in the Victorian era, a procurement scandal, and its eventual uses in action and ceremonial service. The video is presented by the Royal Armouries.
This video features Jonathan Ferguson, Keeper of Firearms and Artillery at the Royal Armouries, discussing 19th-century concealed self-defense pistols designed to appear as jewelry cases. The presentation explores the concept of firearms disguised as everyday objects, questioning their practical utility. The Royal Armouries museum is highlighted, encouraging subscriptions and support.
This video provides a practical accuracy test of a Martini-Henry Mk I/II rifle, dating back to 1872. The content explores the capabilities of this historically significant British Empire rifle, highlighting its revolutionary metal cartridge design and its role in Victorian Era military might. The review aims to demystify the rifle's accuracy, reliability, and speed for modern enthusiasts. It features collaboration with Rob from British Muzzleloaders and mentions inspiration from the film 'Zulu'. The video also details the equipment used for observation, including Vortex Optics, and provides distance conversions.
This video provides a book review of "The Martini-Henry: For Queen and Empire" by Neil Aspinshaw. The reviewer highlights the author's successful balance between technical details and historical context, making the development of the Martini-Henry rifle an engaging story. It covers the rifle's use by British troops globally, its evolution, and addresses common myths surrounding the weapon. The review also mentions the Martini-Enfield as a fascinating, though ultimately superseded, development. The book is recommended for those interested in the Victorian British Empire and the Martini firearm family.
This video showcases a rare .577 caliber Bland-Pryse break-action revolver, likely one of fewer than a hundred ever produced. The example featured boasts an excellent original nickel finish. It was designed as a 'stopping gun' for defense against large animals, firing a roughly 400-grain bullet at approximately 725 fps. Most of these revolvers were exported to India during the Victorian era. This particular firearm was manufactured in Belgium and retailed by Thomas Wilson in London, highlighting its historical significance and unique Belgian/British connection.
This video showcases a cased pair of 1890s duelling pistols designed to fire wax bullets. Johnathan Ferguson, Curator of Firearms, explains their unique purpose for mock duels, where participants wore protective masks and coats. The description also provides links to the Royal Armouries' online collection and their website, blog, Facebook, and Twitter for further information about this and other artifacts.
This YouTube video highlights the intricate design and craftsmanship of late Victorian sight protectors, specifically those found on a Lee-Speed rifle. The creator emphasizes that these protectors, despite their seemingly simple function, involved significant effort and detail in their creation. The video serves as a bonus segment, elaborating on an accessory previously seen on another rifle. It aims to showcase the historical engineering and artistry applied to firearm components.
This video delves into the complex world of historical firearm reproductions, specifically focusing on wheellock pistols. It differentiates between acknowledged reproductions, like Uberti revolvers that allow shooting antique designs affordably and safely, and fraudulent "fakes" intended to deceive. The discussion highlights the Victorian era's popularity for antique guns, leading to commissioned replicas. The video acknowledges the challenge for modern collectors in distinguishing between genuine antiques and Victorian-era copies, emphasizing that well-crafted reproductions can still be valuable collectibles.
This NRA News segment, "Curator's Corner: Steampunk Guns," features NRA National Firearms Museum Senior Curator Doug Wicklund discussing a new exhibit. The exhibit explores the concept of "Steampunk Guns," which blends Victorian-era steam power aesthetics with modern technological elements. The discussion highlights the creative fusion of historical inspiration and contemporary firearm design.
This video explores the intricate craftsmanship of Charles Lancaster, a renowned London gunsmith, focusing on his distinctive 2- and 4-barrel Howdah pistols. These firearms were favored by British military officers, explorers, and big-game hunters as backup weapons across the British Empire. The video highlights three specific examples chambered in .380, .476, and .577 centerfire cartridges, showcasing the high quality of Victorian-era British gunmaking.
