Summary

Australian Service rifle, B.S.A (Birmingham Small Arms Company) Cadet Martini, 2nd pattern, cal. .310in., steel rifled (five groove) round barrel, 60.00cm long. Francotte's Patent Martini falling block single shot breech loading action, steel triggerguard, loading lever, foreend and missing butt plate. Barleycorn foresight, graduated rear sight. Purchased by the Australian Government in the first decades of the 20th century for the purposes of cadet training. Used by the NSW Citizen Military Forces.

In 1910 the Australian Commonwealth Government introduced a system of universal cadet training, and issued the States with what is now known as the .310 Martini Cadet Rifle. These employed the Francotte Patent, and were made in the UK by both Greener and B.S.A. Differing from the .310 Westley Richards Cadet rifle by employed the Francotte patent martini action, the Greener and BSA Cadets can be found carrying the markings of any of the Australian states. The BSA Cadets were produced in two patterns, the 2nd pattern as per this item, carrying the more elaborate rear sight with protecting ears for the range and windage adjusting screws. In all other aspects, it is essentially the same as the 1st pattern and the Greener Cadet, excepting of course the BSA stampings to the receiver. All three models are marked 'COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA' on the R.H. side of the receiver and carry the kangaroo monogram on the top of the knox form. This item is stamped for use by the NSW Citizens Military Forces, and in several locations with the Sale or Disposal mark, denoting that it has been sold outside of military service to the public. The models were phased out in 1921 when the cadet forces began being issued with the standard Australian military Lee Enfield rifles.

Physical Description

Australian Service rifle, B.S.A Cadet Martini, 2nd pattern, cal. .310in., steel rifled (five groove) round barrel, 60.00cm long. Francotte's Patent Martini falling block single shot breech loading action, steel triggerguard, loading lever, foreend and missing butt plate. Barleycorn foresight, graduated rear sight with protecting ears. Two sling swivels. Small chip to stock behind receiver.

More Information