From Brown Bess to SMLE

The origins of the British military rifle started with the famous Brown Bess musket. Inaccurate over 80 yards but inexpensive to produce and quick to load, this was the forerunner of a range of increasingly accurate weapons produced for the British Army.

Dr Andy Smith, in his illustrated talk, and including hands-on experience of a range of rifles, will explain the impact of breach loading, calibre and ammunition changes, rifled barrels, and bolt actions, demonstrating the legendary rifles that fought in the Zulu and Boer wars and taking us into the maelstrom of the First World War with the evolution of the classic Lee Enfield 303.

Members and non-members of The Western Front Association are equally welcome. Any new visitors are guaranteed a friendly atmosphere and a warm welcome from a group of like-minded enthusiasts.