Romanian Model 1879 Martini-Henry Rifles & Carbines
This video delves into the history and acquisition of Romanian Model 1879 Martini-Henry rifles and carbines. Following their positive experience with the Martini-Henry in the Russo-Turkish War, the Romanian Army sought to equip their own forces with these rifles. Despite initial difficulties in obtaining British-made rifles, Romania secured a license to manufacture them in .45 Gatling caliber at a factory in Witten, Germany, which was partially operated by Friedrich von Martini himself. The video details the initial contract and subsequent orders, highlighting the factory's bankruptcy and the shift to OEWG Steyr in Austria for further production. While these rifles were eventually replaced by the Model 1893 Mannlicher and saw limited front-line service, they were utilized in secondary roles during World War One. The video thanks the King Ferdinand I Military Museum for providing access to examples and A.N.C.A. for coordinating the visit.














