HC Deb 11 May 1893 vol 12 cc638-9
MR. WEIR (Ross and Cromarty)

I beg to ask the Secretary of State for War how many cartridges, loaded with cordite powder and nickel covered bullets, can be fired from the Metford regulation .303 barrel, before the same becomes worn and unfit for accurate shooting?

MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

From experience in the proof of ammunition the number of rounds which may be fired before the rifle becomes unfit for accurate shooting appears to be about 3,000.

MR. TOMLINSON (Preston)

Did I rightly understand the right hon. Gentleman to say that the rifle is worn out after firing 3,000 rounds. Is that at all a satisfactory condition of affairs?

*MR. CAMPBELL-BANNERMAN

I did not say it was then worn out. I said it became unfit for accurate shooting. If the hon. Gentleman wishes for further information will he put a question on the Paper?