Enfield Pattern 1856

History of the Enfield Model in 1856

The English Enfield Model 1856 followed the original Model 1853 and was commissioned to produce a pike more "fit for infantry". The original forms were of course effective human killers, but their main physical limitation was their length, which made them unwieldy in the wars of the late 19th century. Now that barrel rifles can penetrate long spears, and infantry fighting has a much closer range than before, barrel length can be reduced somewhat (at the expense of range).

This resulted in many full-length guns being shrunk to more manageable sizes - especially appreciated by frontline scouts and cavalry infantry.

The 1856 pattern is about 6 inches smaller than the earlier 1853 pattern. The barrel is now 33 inches long. It continues to use the .577 ball as ammo and is powered by the shock cap action. The main difference to this line (besides the noticeably shortened length) is its dual-band design. These metal straps are used to attach the wooden stock to the barrel assembly, creating a rigid, sturdy frame.

As usual, there is a striker lever under the barrel, and the action takes place near the rear end of the gun. The shoulder rest is traditionally integrated into the weapon, forming the grip area between it and the front end.

Underslings allow the attachment of belts and make it easier to transport rifles on the march.

Both sides of the American Civil War (1861-1865) procured the Model 1856, and of course the British Empire used it heavily - usually to its sergeants and combat troops. It is manufactured by Enfield and Tower Armory in England.

Specification

Roles

Dimensions

Performance

Changes