A Fabulous, Imperial German WW1, Steel, Folding Sniper Shield. Western Front Recovery In Great Surviving Condition.

WW1 German sniper shield with moving protective side plates, reputedly battlefield dug on the Somme.

Soldiers in front-line trenches suffered from enemy snipers. These men were usually specially trained marksmen that had rifles with telescopic sights. German snipers did not normally work from their own trenches. The main strategy was to creep out at dawn into no-man's land and remain there all day. Wearing camouflaged clothing and using the cover of a fake tree, they waited for a British soldier to pop his head above the parapet. A common trick was to send up a kite with English writing on it. Anyone who raised his head to read it was shot. They also used a steel plate with a loophole for their Mauser sniper rifle. This is a super example and it shows at least one bullt strike upon it. There were many variants in these shields from lightweight models to huge, fully wheeled contraptions. This is the 'standard' German model, the 'Infanterieschild' from 1916. The front has curved edges to protect the user from bullet splash or richochets. The position of the opening allows maximum protection for right handed soldiers and normally a movable cover is fitted to protect the rifle slot.
To the rear there are supports to allow the shield to be self-supporting on flat terrain. Many were designed to be portable on the battlefield. Normally they would have been dug into the trench system or used in useful numbers as part of short term or even semi-permanent strong points or sniper posts in trench systems.

Export shipping abroad would likely be expensive  read more

Code: 26154

A Very Rare, And Incredibly Beautiful Regimental, Napoleonic, Museum Piece British Sword Of The 1st Regiment Of Foot With Battle Honour Crest Of The Regiment With the Honour of Egyptian {Aboukir 1801 & Alexandria 1801} Campaign of The Sphinx

A Beautiful 1803 pattern British combat infantry regimental sword for the Royal Scots, the 1st Regiment of Foot. A glorious museum piece for its combination of beauty and incredible combat history

This wonderous sabre looks as good as anything you will see on display in the Tower of London Armoury museum. This beauty could be the prize 'star' piece of any collection of rare Napoleonic swords

Copper gilt 1803 pattern slotted hilt with lion's head pommel royal crest GR knuckle bow, slotted hilt with four regimental badges of the 1st Regiment of Foot The Royal Scots, with figure of the Sphinx battle honour. Wooden ribbed grip and original copper gilt mounted scabbard with maker engraving of John Salter of 35 the Strand, London. Maker to the Duke of Sussex, and a famed maker of swords for Admiral Lord Nelson, and Lloyds Patriotic Fund.

The overall condition of the sword is very good, yet it has clearly been used in impressive hand to hand combat, as the sword blade’s cutting edge has numerous attacking and defensive edge-to-edge sword cuts.

A remarkable regiment of incredible combat history. They fought, with honours awarded, in the Egyptian Campaign against Napoleon, serving in the Mediterranean. This included Toulon (1793), Corsica (1794), Aboukir (1801) and Alexandria (1801). In 1799, the battalion also took part in the unsuccessful Anglo-Russian invasion of Holland. In the Peninsular war, they fought at Corunna (1809), before being evacuated and sent on the Walcheren Expedition. It returned to Iberia, taking part in many engagements, including Fuentes de Onoro (1811), Salamanca (1812), Vitoria (1813) and the Battle of Nive (1813), before advancing into France in 1814. It later fought magnificently at Quatre Bras and Waterloo (1815).

The 1st Regiment of Foot (Royal Scots), 3rd Battalion, played a key role at Waterloo in Kempt’s Brigade (1st Division), positioned along the Ohain Road. They withstood heavy artillery, held their position during intense infantry attacks, and advanced in the late afternoon. They previously fought at Quatre Bras, forming a successful square with the 28th Foot.

Positioned on the left of the allied line, they were heavily involved in defending against French advances.
They held their position, forming lines and squares to combat French infantry and cavalry charges. During lulls, they withdrew to the reverse slope to avoid artillery fire.

Fighting at Quatre Bras on June 16, forming a combined square with the 28th Foot to repel cavalry.

During Waterloo, the regiment was involved in close-quarters fighting against initial French attacks, later supported by the Union Brigade cavalry.
Major Campbell was wounded, with command falling to Captain Robert Macdonald.
The regiment advanced towards the ridge after the fall of La Haye Sainte around 5:00 PM.

The 3rd Battalion was part of Major General Sir James Kempt's 8th British Brigade.

The Royal Scots (1st Regiment of Foot) was the oldest and most senior infantry regiment of the line in the British Army, raised in 1633 and serving until 2006. Known as "Pontius Pilate's Bodyguard," it was formed by Sir John Hepburn for service in France before joining the British establishment in 1678. The regiment was amalgamated into the Royal Regiment of Scotland.
Originally raised in 1633 by King Charles I as a Scottish regiment for French service during the Thirty Years War, later known as the Regiment de Douglas or Regiment de Dumbarton.
Precedence: It was recognized as the 1st Regiment of Foot in 1751.
Major Campaigns: Served in the War of Spanish Succession (Blenheim, Ramillies, Oudenarde, Malplaquet), 7 Years War, Napoleonic Wars (including Waterloo).
The Napoleonic Wars: During the Napoleonic Wars, they were heavily involved in the Peninsular War and at Waterloo in 1815
The development of the Pattern 1803 Flank Officer's sword originates with formation of grenadier and light companies in the late 18th century. These were considered the elite of both the Foot Guards and line infantry, and could be detached and deployed separately. The grenadier company was the senior company of any infantry battalion and would typically lead an assault. The light company fulfilled the skirmishing role for the battalion. When a battalion was deployed in line, the grenadier and light companies were deployed on the right and left flanks respectively, and both companies could be could be called upon to operate in looser formations and semi-independently. The added element of risk associated with detached skirmishing in looser formations meant that the officers of these companies needed a more robust fighting sword than the straight 1796 pattern.  read more

Code: 26176

WW2 F.W. Höller (FW Holler) of Solingen, Germany German Third Reich NCO/Officer's Dove Head Cavalry Sword. Gilt Hilt With Original Multi Wire Binding Over Celluloid Grip. With Stunning, Near Mint, Mirror Bright Blade and Blued Steel, Dent Free Scabbard

F.W. Höller (FW Holler) of Solingen, Germany, was a prominent manufacturer of military swords, daggers, and cutlery during the 1930s and Third Reich period (1933–1945). Known for high-quality craftsmanship, the firm often marked its blades with a "thermometer" logo, sometimes accompanied by the letters "RZM" for party-ordered items.

The sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 36 inches, with a blade length of approximately 30 inches. The blade shows light wear marks but overall it is mirror bright and makes a wonderful appearance. The ricasso bears the thermometer trademark of the F.W. Holler firm.

The Third Reich used cavalry extensively in World War II, contrary to the image of a fully mechanized army. While motorized early on, the German army relied heavily on horses for logistics, transport, and cavalry units, peaking at six cavalry divisions by February 1945. Key units included the 1st Cavalry Division (later 24th Panzer) and the SS Cavalry Brigade/8th SS Cavalry Division.

As for weapons, every horse-mounted soldier carried a saber in a leather pouch when riding. After 1939, every officer carried the MP-38 and later the MP-40 submachine gun. All others carried the standard infantry issue Karabiner 98K carbine, a modified version of the long standard 98a, its shorter length making it more suitable for mounted troops. The carbine was based on an 1898 design, and while five rounds could be pressed into the magazine, it required a manual opening and closing of the bolt action to eject a spent round and cycle a new round into the chamber. In contrast, the standard U.S. issue Garand, a gas-operated semiautomatic design, required no bolt action and thus increased its firepower. Many veterans on both sides said this was often the difference between life and death on the battlefield. Officers, sergeants, and medical personnel also carried the Pistole 08, a 9mm semiautomatic, better known as the famous Luger. Some horse troops were issued the new 7.92 MPi 43/44 assault rifles, predecessors of the modern infantry weapons of today.

Horses were essential for logistics, with most German infantry divisions relying on them for transportation throughout the war. Cavalry units (mounted infantry) were used for reconnaissance, security, and "bandit-fighting" (partisan warfare) on the Eastern Front, particularly by the SS Cavalry Brigade.
Major Units:
1st Cavalry Division: Formed in 1939, it was the only mounted division in the early war before conversion to the 24th Panzer Division in 1941.
SS Cavalry Brigade / 8th SS Cavalry Division "Florian Geyer": Commanded by Hermann Fegelein, this unit was responsible for massive atrocities during "pacification" operations behind the front lines in the Soviet Union.
I Cavalry Corps: Formed late in the war (1944-1945), it fought on the Eastern Front (Operation Bagration) and in the final "Spring Awakening" offensive in 1945.

Horsemanship was also taught at the SS academies, as it was considered part of the legacy of the Teutonic Knights to which the Nazis ascribed. Unlike American cowboy movies in which, miraculously, no horse is ever injured during blazing gun battles, horses littered the roads and fields of Europe, killed by machine guns, mortars, artillery fire, and air attack. During the killing Russian winters, pampered German farm and riding horses, lashed to heavy wagons, dropped in their tracks. Often they became food for the starving soldiers.

The WWII German cavalry corps, which in wartime consisted of horse, bicycle, and motorcycle troops, contained 18 horse regiments. Disbanded at the outbreak of the war in 1939, they were reformed into divisional reconnaissance battalions, followed in 1943 by what is considered the rebirth of the German cavalry. Three regiments were reconstituted.

Logistical Importance: Despite motorized propaganda, horses were essential to German logistical, transport, and reconnaissance functions, with a steady supply maintained until 1945.
End of War: Cavalry units fought until the surrender in May 1945. Some, like the I Cavalry Corps, retreated into Austria and were taken prisoner by the British.

Each squad of horse soldiers consisted of nine troopers, and an MG 34 light machine gun provided additional firepower. Horses were also integral to the mobile field kitchens and the blacksmith, ammunition, and weapons wagons. While each troop had a motorcycle dispatch rider for maintaining long-distance communication with command, most communication on horseback consisted of 25 standard hand signals.  read more

Code: 26177

Japanese Edo Era kankyûtô (貫級刀) Double Edged Knife, Head Piercer, With Boars Eye Piecing and Silver Inlaid Cherry Blossom. One Piece Steel Construction And It is Also Mistakenly Called A Bashin (馬針)

Often carried like a kodzuka in the small side pocket of a wakazashi or tanto saya. Original early examples are rare and highly collectable. However bashin are usually not of one-piece construction, have a longer blade and lack the hole at the end that kankyûtô always have.

Although it can also be mistaken for a kogatana (that other little side implement kept in the pocket of the saya) but the kogatana is made is of two metals, brass, copper gilt and steel. The blade will be considerably longer than this type, although in photographs might look very similar. The kogatana also has a soft steel blade which can relatively easily bend. This small knife is rigid, in one piece constructed steel, in fact so rigid and strong one could drive it like a 4 inch nail into a 2 inch piece of oak and it will be unlikely to bend.

Their original use was associated with the practice of cutting enemy heads and presenting them with a tag, a practice that continued into the Muromachi period (1336-1573). Theories vary about whether it was used to affix the tag, or having to do with adding a thread to a head for mounting or transport.

An alternative use was horse-healing for over heated limbs. But that was usually the task of a bashin

Beside their occasional use for horse-healing, they are known as throwing-knifes (shuriken) or hidden knives, sometimes a backup weapon or "property marker" for samurai. Kankyuto (貫級刀) means a sword to pierce a head.

The usage of handling severed heads for formal head viewing (首実検: kubijikken) after battle by supporting the head like a stand.

Bashin was used as a throwing knife as well as a tool for horses. And during Sengoku era, it was used to support a cut head of enemy when it was examined.

Found on mountings sometimes in place of a kogai. The handle portion is inlaid with silver in a cherry blossom pattern. It is believed their principle region of use for these was in the province of Higo, but they were carried elsewhere as time progressed. It is said there are numerous stories about badly wounded Ronin on the battlefield who would use theirs to attack one more foe as the victors moved among the fallen samurai warriors to finish those who were thought helpless.

Kubi Jikken, Samurai Head Viewing Ceremony
Customs and Details Regarding the Samurai's Taking Of Enemy Heads In Battle.

In ancient times, the Japanese expression 'It seems as if you have taken the head of a demon!' was used to show admiration of one’s achievements, just as the warriors of the Warring States period also proclaimed their achievements in battle by raising high the heads of enemies they had defeated on the battlefield.

Historical Significance of the Vanquished Head: During the violent Sengoku (Warring States) period, warriors would take the heads of enemies they killed to prove their worth to their commanders.
Taken heads were often washed, combed, and sometimes treated with cosmetics to hide injuries, then formally presented on a wooden tray for inspection and identification by military officials.
Honorable Death: High-ranking vanquished samurai were treated with respect, while lesser warriors' heads were often ignored.
The "Dakikubi" Technique: A skilled second (kaishakunin) would perform dakikubi during ritual suicide (seppuku), leaving a small strip of skin so the head would fall forward and look like it was bowing, rather than rolling away

5 1/2 inches long overall. 1/2 inch wide at the handle  read more

Code: 26173

Welcome to The Lanes Armoury, Britain's Truly Magical Place, Where Thousands of Original & Breathtaking Wonders Are For Sale And New Fantastic Original Treasures Added, Every, Single, Day.

Our beautiful pieces from history are not always just for looking at, some {such as the B3 Pilots Jacket} can still be enjoyed, and even worn, for every one to see.

Recently acquired and added to our web store and also due to be added.

A stunning Martini Henry 450-577 rifle {with both optional bayonet patterns} one of the first 1400 ever made. And one of the rarest Royal Marines pattern swords ,1796, we have ever seen. Trafalgar battle damaged. Two amazing Japanese swords both by high ranked smiths Dewa Daijo Fujiwara Kunimichi circa 1615, and Hamabe Toshizane, 1814, both absolute beauties! they will both be available in around two weeks. Plus a super Brown Bess, and a remarkable WW1 German snipers bullet proof armour shield. Some jolly nice Imperial and Third Reich German swords. Plus lots more!

Recently we also have some superb, British, Victorian swords from the Crimean War, for a new young officer serving in The Zulu War, and one beauty, regimentally marked to the 1st Battalion The Welsh Regiment, for an officer that served in combat Mahdist War (1888): The 1st Battalion was dispatched to Egypt in 1886, playing a key role in the Mahdist War at the Battle of Gemaizah (Suakin) in December 1888, where they were highly praised for their efficiency by their commander, Col.Kitchener.

Colonel Herbert Kitchener, {later to become known as the great Field Marshal Lord Kitchener} who wrote in his dispatches:

‘The half-Battalion of The Welsh Regiment are seasoned soldiers and whatever I asked of them to do they did well. They’re marksmen at Gemaizah Fort and the remainder of the half-Battalion on the left fired section volleys driving the Dervishes from their right position and inflicting severe punishment upon them when in the open. Significantly the Battalion did not lose a man”

Later, the 1st Battalion was dispatched to South Africa in November 1899 for the Second Boer War: it was engaged in Battle of Paardeberg in February 1900, where they suffered heavy losses, and again at the Battle of Driefontein in March 1900

Also, cannon balls from the English Civil War seige. One ball was recovered {in living memory} almost five feet beneath the surface mud. And an incredibly very rare and historical, WW2 British SOE agent’s ‘assassins’ issued sleeve dagger, used in the invasion of Sicily. NOW SOLD

Key aspects of SOE Special Operations Executive} involvement and special forces operations in Sicily include:
Targeting Fascist Italy: Between 1940 and 1943, the SOE worked to encourage sabotage and resistance against Mussolini’s regime. By the time of the Sicily invasion, this research and clandestine groundwork aimed to undermine Italian morale and operations.
Special Raiding Squadron (SRS): The Special Raiding Squadron, commanded by Paddy Mayne and often linked to the SAS and SOE’s broader special forces mission, spearheaded aspects of the invasion. These hand-picked raiders were tasked with lightning raids and close-quarter combat.
The SRS and special forces conducted raids to disrupt German and Italian defensive lines during the 1943 campaign, which lasted from 9 July to 17 August.
SOE's role was part of a larger, broader strategy to cripple Italian resistance and support the massive Allied conventional forces (160,000+ men) that landed in Sicily. While Operation Mincemeat was a separate intelligence operation, it was crucial in tricking the Axis into strengthening Greece instead of Sicily, easing the landing of Allied special forces and regular troops.

The SOE’s efforts in Italy were considered high-risk, as agents operated in a hostile enemy country rather than occupied territory.

Also see our latest incredible 'Royal' daggers from the 17th century Pattal-hatara (Four Workshops) of the King of Sri Lanka. Occasionally, as we are Great Britain’s leading gallery of our kind, we have had had such knives, over the past 30 years, before, but nothing as fine as these museum grade examples, from the small collection we were thrilled to have acquired.

We have just also just added to the web store; a German colonels sword surrendered at the formal surrender of the German armed forces in May 1945 to Field Marshal Lord Montgomery, and a beautiful and magnificent samurai swords from the 1600's Tokugawa Shogunate period, one of the most fabulous samurai swords you might ever see. Plus, an Ancient Greek short sword or long dagger From The Greco-Persian Wars era, From the time of the Spartans at Thermopylae, to Alexander the Great's conquest of Persia & Egypt

We Are Not Just A Webstore, We Are Always Welcoming Thousands Personal Visitors To View or Buy our Museum Pieces in Our Gallery In Brighton, Every Day* {but Sunday}

Thousands of original, historic, ancient, antique and vintage collectables. For example; from Ancient Rome, China and Greece, to Medieval Japan, and Viking Europe. Covering British, European, and in fact, all worldwide eras of historical events from the past 4000 years, with antiquities, weaponry, armour, object d’art, militaria and fabulous books, from the Stone Age, the Bronze Age and the iron age, and right up to WW2.

Where else in the world could you find, under one roof, original artifacts, such as,; a mace and archer’s ring recovered from the site of Battle of Crecy, a sword of a British Admiral or notorious pirate fleet captain of the Golden Age of piracy of 17th century England, a battle mace, possibly once used by of one the personal guards in the service of the most famous Pharoah, Rameses the Great of Egypt, or, a museum quality 500 year old sword of a samurai clan Daimyo lord, and a pair of gold and enamel Art Deco 1920’s Magic Circle medals awarded to a friend of Harry Houdini. And all of the above, with many, many other Museum pieces, have been just been offered upon the site within the past couple of weeks.

Personalised and unique ‘Certificates of Authenticity’ can be supplied for every, single, purchase.

Our family have been personally serving the public in Brighton for several generations, in fact, for over 105 years.

* Opening hours Monday to Saturday 11.00am till 4.00pm, closed Sundays and Bank Holidays.


See in the gallery Will Young wearing one of our fabulous Victorian tunics, plus, James Marshall ‘Jimi’ Hendrix

And Tom pops in again to pick up a few trinkets the other day, and Liz and Richard pop down to visit us in October 1970  read more

Code: 24055

A Superb Early Victorian Sailing Ship and Early Steamship Man O'War Naval Cutlass of 1845. Used In The Crimean War, and The Opium War In China, By The Naval Ship's Boarding Party. One Of The Best Condition Examples We Have Seen In a Long While

Naval cutlass with superb bright steel blade, and blackened sheet steel bowl guard with ribbed steel grip. The boarding cutlass was made and used without scabbards, and kept in numerous racks aboard the ship. The cutlass has clearly seen combat service, and thus signs of use, but many survivors today are in a sad state with rust issues {due to seawater}. This beauty has obviously been cared for since its retirement from its naval service aboard a man o'war.

By the 1850s, Royal Navy boarding parties were becoming less common in conventional fleet actions, replaced by long-range gunnery, but they remained crucial for close quarter boarding parties, anti-piracy, suppressing the slave trade, and coastal operations for landing parties. During this period of transition from sail to steam, boarding techniques evolved to include both direct ship-to-ship boarding and the use of smaller boats for landing parties.
Boarding parties were highly organized, often split into four divisions, each commanded by a Lieutenant, with teams of roughly 13 men, including marines and sailors.
Each ship’s crew had designated "boarders" and "repellers" (to stop enemy boarding). These parties often included 2 midshipmen and men selected from specific gun crews.
Specialization included men assigned to fire duty, and others assigned to climb aloft to manage rigging, often under fire

Anti-Slavery Operations: In the 1850s and 1860s, Royal Navy ships, particularly in East African waters (e.g., around Zanzibar), used boarding parties to intercept slave dhows. These involved small boat attacks on often well-armed vessels.
In the 1850s, especially during the Crimean War (1854-1855), the navy shifted focus to landing "Naval Brigades"—sailors and Royal Marines landed to fight as artillery or infantry on land.
Boarding was done by bringing ships alongside, using grappling hooks to lock hulls together, often with marines firing from "fighting tops" (high up in the masts) onto the enemy deck

Boarding was extremely hazardous, as small boats had to approach massive vessels under fire.
Boarders had to scale the side of the enemy ship, which was often slick with water or blood, while under fire from the defenders

28.5 inch blade, overall length approximately 34 inches  read more

Code: 26157

Original Antique MK I - II Short Lever Martini Henry Rifle, Dated 1875, By Enfield, Early Model Long Cocking Indicator, With Original Victorian Leather Sling. Rare Brass Muzzle Dust Cover & In Fabulous Condition. One Of Only 1400 Early MK1 Models Made

Original Antique MK I-II Antique Short Lever Martini Henry Rifle, with Victorian leather sling & fabulous stock patina, and great steel condition with barely negligible traces of corrosion anywhere. Numerous inspection stamps throughout the rifle, upon the barrel, action, trigger guard, dust cover etc. With Superb Steel Patination & Stock Patina

Only about 1400 MK I’s were made and in 1877 they were replaced by the MK II which incorporated several design improvements learned from the MK I. At this time the surviving MK I’s were factory
converted to the MK II. When converted to the MK II an additional “I” was added to the
receiver markings, which resulted in the marking being skewed to the right of centre, whereas rifles made originally as a MK II would have this marking centered.

The stock looks as good as the very best quality walnut stock can be, after it was used by a front rank regiment for several decades.

In our opinion this conservation has revealed this wonderful rifle to be one of the best and beautiful ‘used’ examples outside of the National Army Museum

Returning from professional hand conservation Fully actionable and a superbly tight mechanism.

The most desirable Martini Henry are the MK I's and the MKI-II's, The very types of Martini short Lever rifle as were used by the 24th Foot at Ishandwhana and Rorke's Drift, and then later in the Afghan War and several conflicts against the Mahdi in the Sudan. They were even also used up to WW1 by some colonial regiments. This is a very fine early original ordnance contract example, best line regiment issue, and made by Enfield with VR Crown mark stamped 'sx' on the breech for upgraded hardened steel pin.

This rifle was made at the Enfield arms workshop and is a truly exceptional and beautiful example, maker marked, and in very good operational order indeed with an excellent action, but clearly combat used.

The Martini Henry, .450 577 rifle was most famous British Infantry breech loading rifle of the 19th century. This rifle is just as were used in the film ZULU, and the exact model type as was used during the Zulu War, a much superior condition stunning example.

The Martini-Henry breech-loading rifle, firing
cartridges, was the primary British infantry weapon during the 1879 Anglo-Zulu War, crucial at battles like Rorke's Drift. While capable of 12–20 rounds per minute, it suffered from overheating and jamming due to gunpowder residue, leading to severe recoil and performance issues in sustained, close-range combat.
Key Aspects of the Martini-Henry in the Zulu War
Weapon Specifications: The Mark II was the most common model used alongside with the earlier issue, rare, MK I-II, featuring a short lever-action breech block and often a 25-inch socket bayonet essential for melee.The rifle was accurate and long-ranged, but produced heavy smoke. Continuous firing caused excessive heating and fouling, forcing soldiers to use cleaning rods to dislodge stuck, fired cartridges.

At Rorke's Drift, disciplined volleys from the Martini-Henry enabled a small force to hold off large Zulu numbers. However, ammunition shortages and jamming issues contributed to the disaster at Isandlwana.
Soldiers were often only issued 70 rounds, which was insufficient during sustained Zulu attacks.
Bayonet Use: The long bayonet was crucial, as the rifle was 4ft 9in long, giving soldiers a vital range advantage in close-quarters fighting.

The weapon was well-regarded for its power but required careful maintenance, which was difficult during the heat of the conflict

This Martini-Henry dated 1875, was the breech-loading lever-actuated rifle adopted by the British, combining an action worked on by Friedrich von Martini (based on the Peabody rifle developed by Henry Peabody), with the rifled barrel designed by Scotsman, Alexander Henry. It first entered service in 1871 replacing the Snider-Enfield, and variants were used throughout the British Empire for 30 years. It was the first British service rifle that was a true breech-loading rifle using metallic cartridges.
During the Martini-Henry period in service, the British army were involved in a large number of colonial wars, most notably the Anglo-Zulu War. The Martini Henry, 450-577, Short Lever, MK I converted MK II or the regular MK II rifle was the type used by the company of the 2nd Battalion, 24th Regiment of Foot present at Rorke's Drift during the eponymous battle. The MK I originally had a small design fault in that the actions hinge pin was initially made of brass, which was too soft for continual use. The rare and early MKI's were thus converted by removing this pin, replacing it with a steel pin, and then redesignated the MKI-II, and the breech stamped ‘six’ as this beauty is.

The Martini Henry were later used throughout the British Empire, as this one clearly was as well. In fact the Martini henry was such a good rifle many survived to be used in WW1 by some colonial regiments.

This absolute beauty was originally acquired by our dear friend and business colleague, around twenty years ago, direct from storage in a former military arsenal, after around 100 years in greased dry storage. It was initially then passed on to a collector, and from there, to us, only yesterday.

We have both types of original Martini Henry socket bayonets, available, the British Pattern 1853/72, bushed bayonet for Martini Henry rifle, and used by the 2nd battalion 24th foot at Rorkes drift.

The pattern 1853/ 72 was called a bushed model as they were modified from 20mm diameter to 18.1 mm diameter by a process then called bushed to fit the new Martini Henry rifle.

The 2nd battalion 24th foot had been in South Africa longer and still had the older pattern 1872 bayonet.

Also;

We have the newer, 1876 pattern Martini Henry socket bayonet, with 21.5 inch blade, {aka the Long Lunger} that was issued to the 1st battalion, the 24th Foot, and used by them at Isandlwana.

The two bayonets are to be sold separately, at £150 GBP each, but, with first option going to the next owner of the rifle, who may wish, neither bayonet, one, or both. Once the rifle's next owner chooses, we will then offer the bayonets for sale {but obviously, only, if one or both remain}

As with all our original antique arms, no licence is required to own, purchase or to collect anything of that description we sell. They, and all of these rifles, are entirely unrestricted to own, collect, and display just as they are, however, we only permitted to sell to those who are over 18 of age with suitable I.d.  read more

Code: 26175

A Most Scarce Antique Ching Dynasty Chinese Shuāngjiàn (雙劍). A Twin-Sword Jian, Late 18th Early 19th century. Near Identical to Admiral Sir James Hanway Plumbridge's Sword in the National Maritime Museum Collection. And The Metropolitan In New York

A 19th century Chinese especially large sized double sword (Shuang Jian) with green, giant rayskin scabbard, and elaborate brass mounts, The cast brass mounted hilts are of classic form with zoomorphic guards depicting the taotie (饕餮), a monster from Chinese folklore that was so voracious that it devoured even its own lower jaw. This is quite like kirtimukha of the Hindu cultural sphere, and there is probably an ancient relationship between the two. The rendering of the faces is detailed, their presence strong, unlike very similar guards on most late Qing duanjian that lack detail and look weak.

A most rare sword arrangement where each sword has a rounded outer and a flat inner side hilt system, of two swords that fit back to back and parallel together, and are simultaneously worn in a single scabbard. The blades were designed to be used in pairs, one in each hand. During the Qing Dynasty, these were not just combat weapons but also popular symbols of high status. Many Jian were brought back to England by the earliest visitors to China, both before and after the Boxer rebellion.

A similar piece was exhibited in the British Museum, Chinese weapons and armour, 15th of December 1994 to the 15th of January 1995.

A Chinese jian double or twin sword, with two double edged blades retained in a single scabbard. Principle sword with a engraved brass mounts, the bats and longevity symbols on the brass mounts form the pun fúshòu (福壽), meaning a long and happy life, and a lined darkwood grip, the secondary sword has an identical matching hilt with buffalo horn grip, and both are simultaneously retained in a superb single giant rayskin covered scabbard, with two interior slots, one for each blade, with typical stylized brass mounts, typically decorated with a traditional, intricate, bat and seal design, fúshòu (福壽). The stylized longevity symbol called shòu (壽) surrounded by bats, fú (蝠)
Each sword has a double edged blade.

Overall with stunning original patination, this would be a Chinese antique sword, of the larger size than usual, that would likely be impossible to improve upon.

Likely brought back to England as a souvenir of the Opium War period to the Boxer Rebellion. Truly original, antique, Chinese weapons are very scarce indeed, as historically, few swords were ever brought back from China. Porcelain and silk were far more popular and preferable souvenirs and exports for Europeans, and in China, in the mid 20th century, nearly all the surviving antique edged weapons were melted down and destroyed in the era of Mao, under Chairman Mao's Cultural Revolutionary instructions, in order to create new steel.

A fabulous example that has breathtaking natural age patina. Effectively, in wondrous condition for its age.

A near identical sword {but withy a single blade} was once belonging to Admiral Sir James Hanway. His family believed he wore it as a midshipman at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. It is on display in the National Maritime Museum, exhibit number; WPN1157. Described as follows
Chinese sword, which belonged to Admiral Sir James Hanway Plumbridge (1787-1863). Description of the admirals sword; The hilt of the sword consists of a gilt pommel and crosspiece with very short down-turned quillons, and a fluted brown grip. The hilt is ornamented with a design of bats, which are a symbol of good luck. The steel blade is straight and double-edged. The point of the blade has evidently been broken off; it is about an inch too short for the scabbard and is rather roughly ground. The wooden scabbard is covered with lacquered paper actually tortoishell, and has four gilt lockets and a chape, which is ornamented with a design of bats. The two middle lockets are fitted with loops. This sword was offered to the National Maritime Museum as the sword which was worn by Admiral Sir James Hanway Plumbridge when he was a Midshipman at Trafalgar. It is inconceivable that he wore a Chinese weapon at Trafalgar. He probably obtained the sword during one of his three commissions in the East Indies. Admiral Sir James Hanway Plumbridge (1787-1863) entered the Royal Navy on the 6th September 1799 and was a Midshipman in HMS 'Leda' in the expedition to Egypt in 1801. At Trafalgar he was acting 6th Lieutenant in HMS 'Defence', and on the 20th August 1806 he was confirmed in rank. See photo 10 in the gallery, it shows the admiral's identical Jian sword on display in the National Maritime Museum, the photo is sadly of poor quality

The two paintings in the gallery are original Chinese gouache of a seated Ching Emperor, and his sword bearer, holding the very same type of Jian sword with green scabbard.

The antique Chinese jian is a straight, double-edged sword used in China for over 2,500 years, with the earliest examples dating to the 7th century BC. We actually have some original, ancient jian museum pieces, from this era, acquired by us from the world renown Dove Collection. See them offered for sale within our website.
It was a multi-purpose weapon, optimized for thrusting but also capable of cutting and slashing, and was a symbol of status. The design was effective and remained relatively consistent over long periods, with minor variations in length, weight, and balance.
The jian's most defining feature is its straight, double-edged blade. While it could be used for both cutting and thrusting, it was often considered more optimized for thrusting than the single-edged dao (sabre).
The jian was a symbol of power and status, wielded by the elite and sometimes carried as a symbol of authority.
Its use dates back to the Spring and Autumn period, with some of the earliest specimens being the Sword of Goujian.
Design variations: The length, balance, and weight of the jian varied significantly across different periods and purposes.
It is a crucial tool in traditional Chinese martial arts training.
Military use: It was a formidable weapon on the battlefield and, due to its length and reach, was sometimes used like a long spear to favour thrusting techniques.
The jian is a significant symbol in Chinese culture and history, frequently appearing in films, historical reenactments, and museum exhibits.
Antique jian are valuable as historical artifacts, collectibles, and striking decorative pieces.

A comparable set is held in the Metropolitan Museum, accession number 36.25.1480a–c

It weighs 2.2 lbs, overall length  read more

Code: 26174

An Incredibly Rare, Trafalgar and Napoleonic Wars Period, Historic Sword of Huge Collectable Interest. A Battle Damaged Royal Marines Officer’s Sword 1796 Pattern. A Sword Type Unknown To Us For Over 100 Years Of Our Extensive Experiance

As one of the worlds leading sword dealers, of over 100 years combined experience, we have handled probably more swords than any other, still thriving, military antiques company in the world today.

However, we cannot recall ever handling, examining or even seeing a specific 1796 pattern British infantry officers, sword of a Royal Marines officer's design before. Not even in the Royal Collection or the National Maritime Museum.

We have seen bespoke swords made earlier, before British sword patterns were regularised. Swords from non-regularised period, made in the 1760s to 1790s, that were swords thus clearly intended for infantry officers that fought at sea in the Marines {before it gained the honour and title, Royal Marines}. And, we have seen many later swords, such as several of the 1827 naval pattern, specifically made for Royal Marines officers, or, far more, of the infantry pattern swords, of the later designs, specifically bladed for Royal Marines service, but, never a single 1796 pattern infantry officers sword, a Royal Marines version, and used at the time, of Nelson‘s Navy, at Trafalgar etc.

What remains of this sword is still in superb condition, the remaining main portion of its hilt still has its near mint fire gilt, and its snapped blade bears no significant surface corruption at all, it even has clear traces of its original blue and gilt decor, and its engraving clearly reveals its George IIIrd Royal Marines credentials, including the Kings Royal Crest of King George IIIrd, alongside the naval anchor, and the engraved design, of a ship-of-the-line, and the all important, crossed, cannon and Royal Marines globe { the globe has been elongated to match the length of the cannon when crossed }. Also a naval crown with its masts and sails design over a coronet. Plus, its fine maker's name, within a scroll, of Henry Osborn. Henry Osborn was a major cutler who helped design the original 1796 pattern infantry sword. He went into partnership with gunsmith John Gunby in 1805, and was based in Birmingham, and also with a shop at 82 Pall Mall, London.

Clearly, it was damaged in combat, such as at Trafalgar, but, importantly, it was not then discarded, or, even lost into the depths at sea {where it would have corrupted into nothingness} and then later recovered, but, it was saved, preserved, and obviously superbly cared for, just as is post combat damage, from then until now, but by whom, we know not.

From the time of the battle of Trafalgar, then for the following 180 odd years, the Royal Navy of Great Britain was the finest Navy in the world, until it was eviscerated by today’s political minnows. Such shortsightedness, hopefully, the country will not live to regret.

From the time of the admirals, Nelson, Cochrane and Earl St. Vincent, this is a wonderful sword that has obviously suffered catastrophic combat damage, likely from the impact from such as shrapnel from cannon fire. It has remained completely untouched, 'as is', and Hors de Combat, since its return to Great Britain, possibly, to be returned to its owners family, in memory of his remarkable combat service

This sword, especially in its present condition, effectively encompasses the very essence of the of the entire beginnings of the worlds greatest naval service in all maritime history. From Trafalgar to the Falklands War, the indomitable power, spirit, skill and resourcefulness of the officers and men that fought at sea, on land, and later, in the skies above. It was, quite simply, second to none.

The Royal Marines were titled "Royal" in 1802 by King George III. This honour was bestowed to recognize their meritorious service, particularly after distinguished actions in battles on land and sea during the Revolutionary Wars. The title was instigated by Admiral the Earl St Vincent, making them a permanent, elite force.

Royal Marines at the Battle Of Trafalgar;

Ninety-three officers and 2610 other ranks of the Royal Marines were at their traditional stations on the upper decks of the British ships, Nelsons Flagship HMS Victory carried 165 Marines, led by Captain Charles Adair, and it was a Marine Sergeant who carried Nelson below after being shot.

By the end of the battle the Marines had 17 officers and 332 men killed or wounded, of these 4 officers and 117 men were killed or died of wound. (Total killed Navy and Marines was around 458)

It is potentially possible this sword may have been used by one of these RM officer's. If it was Capt Adair RM it might explain it being saved for posterity due to him perishing in combat in the battle.

Charles Adair RM Capt. {Killed in Action}
James Peake RM 1st Lt.
Lewis B Reeves RM 2nd Lt
Lewis Boatley RM 2nd Lt

Effectively, this is such an historical piece, despite its combat damage, and of such rarity, that it is priceless. However, we have placed a nominal price upon it, so it can hopefully be enjoyed, in, maybe a museum collection, or, by a collector, and generations to come.  read more

Code: 26172

18th Century, Very, Very Rare Butt Reservoir Air-Gun, Outside Lock, Circa 1785. Very Few People Realise Just How Far the Air Rifle Can Trace Back It’s History. And, Just How Amazingly Effective They Were

Likely German. Recently returned from being featured in a documentary on the Lewis and Clark Expedition. We have only had two such similar reservoir butt guns in the past 20 years. Fine resevoir guns such as this were made by Samuel Henry Staudenmayer around 1799, he was a former workman of John Manton, gunmaker to the Prince of Wales and the Duke of York. Two air weapons by this maker are recorded in the Hanoverian Royal Gunroom, one of which was sold at Sotheby's, Hanover, October 2005. He is also the maker of a Girandoni-system air rifle that resides in the Royal Collection at Windsor (inv. No. L 409). Georg Wolf is recorded in Wurzburg circa 1775. Two bellow guns by this maker are preserved in the Bargello, Florence and another was formerly in the gunroom of the Princes zu Salm-Reifferscheidt-Dyck at Schloss Dyck. A Girandoni System Austrian Repeating Air Rifle, Circa 1795, was believed to have been taken on the Lewis & Clark Army Corps of Discovery Expedition in 1803-1806. The Girandoni air rifle was in service with the Austrian army from 1780 to around 1815. The advantages of an air gun were a high rate of fire, no smoke from propellants, and low muzzle report, these features granted it acceptance as a military arm. It did have its problems and was eventually removed from service for several reasons, but decades after introduction. While the detachable air reservoir was capable of around 30 continual shots it took nearly 1,500 strokes of a hand pump to fill those reservoirs. Later, an improvement of a wagon-mounted pump was provided. The reservoirs, were made from hammered sheet iron held together with rivets and sealed by brazing, and they proved very difficult to manufacture using the techniques of the period, and were always in short supply.

In addition, the weapon was very delicate and a small break in the reservoir could make it inoperable. Finally, it was very different from any other weapon of the time and any soldier using it needed to be highly trained.

The Lewis and Clark Expedition used the rifle in the demonstrations that they performed for nearly every Native American tribe they encountered on the expedition

As far back as 250BC, Pharaoh Ktesbias II of Egypt, first described the use of compressed air to propel a projectile. Modern air gun history began in the 15th century. These weapons were known as wind chambers and were designed using an air reservoir connected to a cannon barrel. These devices were capable of propelling a four pound lead ball over a distance of 500 yards, and able to penetrate 3 inch oak board. These weapons rivaled the power of gun powder based firearms of that time and came into use in the Napoleonic wars in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Due to the fact that high powered air guns were both silent and deadly, they were feared by many, Nobility tried to keep these air guns out of the hands of commoners, and air resevoir butt guns even saw much combat in battle, including the Austrian Army that used an air resevoir rifle designed by Grandoni in 1779 that shot 20 rounds of .44 cal. bullets at speeds as high as 1,000 feet per second. They fought well against Napoleon's Army and even though the Austrian Army was outnumbered and lost the battle, the Austrian's armed with air guns demoralized Napoleon's Army, and they suffered had a great number of casualties. Air guns were so feared by Napoleon's Army that any enemy soldier captured with a air rifle was executed as an assassin. One important reason Napoleon was so fearful about air guns was because there was no cloud of smoke upon firing which would allow the sniper to be pin-pointed and killed.

One of the most famous air guns in history is the .36 caliber air gun that Lewis and Clark took along with them on their expedition of 1803-06 see painting in the gallery. They took it along for hunting, just in case the black powder got wet and also used it to impress the Indians, the Indians call this air rifle, "The smokeless thunder stick.". In overall fine condition. The round, smoothbore, appox .44 calibre, sighted, steel barrel, has smooth untouched surfaces, fine bore with front site.. Exposed cocking "hammer" with an external mechanism and sculpted mainspring: matching, smooth, blued surfaces and in functional order. Complete with its original air release lever. Leather wrapped, conical, hollow, steel butt stock/air reservoir. Matching mechanism with all of its original components, a strong mainspring and air release valve. Very fine stock. A very nice and complete example of a rare late 18th century German or Austrian Reservoir-Butt gun. Overall length, 55". As with all our antique guns no license is required as they are all unrestricted antique collectables  read more

Code: 20919