The Rhodesia Mamba: Big Hype and a Big Flop
This video delves into the history and technical shortcomings of the Rhodesia Mamba pistol. Conceived in the 1970s, the Mamba was an ambitious project based on the Smith & Wesson Model 59, featuring all-stainless steel construction and ambidextrous safeties. Despite initial hype as a superior service handgun, production was plagued by technical issues, particularly improper heat treatment insisted upon by its proponent, Joe Hale, and poor quality control. The project ultimately faltered when its South African manufacturer shifted focus, and subsequent assembly in the US by Navy Arms failed to revive it. The Mamba is now a rare collectible due to these production failures.













