Best place to buy a Martini-Henry and/or Snider-Enfield?

[James84]

As the title says, I'm after a Martini (MkIV) or Snider and so far I have seen several advertised over at Bisley so may well make a trip to have a look but I was wondering if there is a more off-the-beaten-track way/place to get them? i.e. any fairs, shows or some back alley antique dealer who specializes in old antique rifles around Hampshire/Dorset/Surrey? Other option I have seen is ordering one from the USA from IMA.

I am also looking for advice on reloading. I have read up extensively and spoken to several shooters so I'm pretty genned up on what's involved and am ordering an X-ring mold when I've found/chosen which rifle and calibre to get but the question I want answered is about the brass. Should I form my own from shotty shells or fork out and get the drawn stuff made in Oz?

I know there is a 'wanted' section on the for sale section but I figured it makes more sense to post this in here due to the advice element.

Ta

[AL8]

I have one from IMA, which is yet to go on my ticket.
Even with import duties etc they offer good value for money.
They also have them on sale sometimes.
Keep an eye on the IMA website.

[dromia]

If you want reloading advice then the Reloading forum is the place to ask.

X-ring moulds are made by Accurate and they are in Accurate's catalogue where they can be bought direct cut to your specific dimensional requirements at less cost than X-ring sells for.

[James84]

Thanks both for the input. Interesting on the X-ring molds, I have been in contact with Martyn from X-Ring Services and had no idea he was re-selling them.

I'm guessing the best bet with IMA would be to pay the hand picked option but I have also seen their Sniders and noticed they are not listed as Snider-enfield, are unstamped and made in Nepal. Does anyone have any idea if these are of the same same quality? I understand the action is solid so shooting shouldn't be a concern (pending inspection)

[AL8]

The Snider's are Nepal made, generally they are of a usable quality.
I have one and shoot it. Log onto

http://britishmilitariaforums.yuku.com

for all the info on both

[James84]

Perfect, thanks.

[James84]

I've just bought myself a Martini from IMA so I'll see how that goes. Thread can now be removed.

Ta

[ovenpaa]

James, I would be interested to hear how the whole procurement process through IMA went, how long you had to wait, any pitfalls and how the rifle turned out in respect to your expectations. Finally and most importantly will or have you shot it yet?

[TomH]

James, I would be interested to hear how the whole procurement process through IMA went, how long you had to wait, any pitfalls and how the rifle turned out in respect to your expectations. Finally and most importantly will or have you shot it yet?

Yep, full rundown (with pictures) when it arrives please.