carbine, breechloading, capping, Westley Richards, .45 in, carbine, breechloading
Accession Number
NAM.1996-08-213-1
Description
Westley Richards ‘Monkey Tail’ capping breechloading .45 in carbine 1883. Manufactured by Westley Richards and Company, Birmingham, 1883. Remnant of leather shoulder sling attached. Ramrod. This carbine is a capping breechloader which uses a paper cartridge and percussion cap. The nickname ‘Monkey Tail’, comes from the distinct shape of the receiver which is raised to enable the cartridge to be inserted. This example of the weapon is a military model exported to the Orange Free State. Issued in small numbers to Orange Free State.
Campaigns
Boer War (1899-1902)