Why the British Did Not Use Lever Actions/Revolver Rifles in the Zulu Wars

Introduction to the Context

The Anglo-Zulu War, also known as the Zulu War, took place in the late 19th century and lasted from January until July 1879. It involved the British Empire's engagement with the Zulu Kingdom, leading to significant impacts on both sides. While the British forces wielded various rifle technologies, including the Martini-Henry, one often ponders why they did not adopt lever actions or revolver rifles. This article delves into the reasons behind this decision, focusing on ammunition, reliability, and perceived fragility of these arms.

Range and Stopping Power

The main reason often cited is the ammunition used in lever action rifles. This technology was primarily associated with carbines firing pistol cartridges. The .44 WCF and similar cartridges were underpowered compared to the .577/450, the preferred ammunition of the British forces. These cartridges lacked the range and stopping power required in engagements with the Zulu warriors, who often fought under the influence of various drugs that altered their perception of pain.

Reliability and Fragility

Another significant factor was the perception of the reliability and fragility of lever action and revolver rifles. Colonial armies, including the British, often saw these arms as more delicate and prone to breaking when handled roughly in battle. This concern permeated military circles, leading to a preference for simpler single-shot rifles and carbines.

Ammunition Management and Magazine Concerns

The British military had reservations about the magazine full of ammunition. They believed that soldiers equipped with entire magazines would use up ammunition too quickly. This concern even led to the early adoption of rifles with cut-off magazines, such as the Martini-Henry. Similarly, this apprehension might have delayed the introduction of semi-automatic or automatic rifles into the British army, as they too would require a magazine-fed system.

The Battle of Isandlwana

The failure at the Battle of Isandlwana in January 1879 provided a stark example of the importance of ammunition management. Troops were reportedly given limited ammunition, and the ammo chests were run during battle, despite having time to follow proper procedures. Once sections began to run out of ammunition, the line broke and they were overrun.

The Adoption of Lever Action Rifles by the North West Mounted Police

Despite the British Sudan Corps' preference for single-shot rifles, the North West Mounted Police (NWMP), engaged in frontier policing in Canada and the United States, were equipped with lever action rifles. The NWMP adopted the Winchester 1876 carbine in .45-75 caliber. These rifles provided the NWMP with the firepower and durability needed in their frontier roles, often under harsher conditions.

Conclusion

The British forces in the Zulu Wars chose not to adopt lever action or revolver rifles due to reasons related to ammunition, reliability, and perceived fragility of these weapons. The Martini-Henry and similar single-shot rifles were preferred for their simpler design and reliability under the harsh conditions of colonial warfare. The lessons learned from the Anglo-Zulu War have left a lasting impression on the evolution of military firearms technology.