'Morris Tube'

I am sure that with all the pundits, gurus and fountains of knowledge on this Forum, someone can help me with a term I have recently come across. Private presentation medallions - 3rd VB Northumberland Fusiliers - 1903 and 1904 - Inter-company competition - MORRIS TUBE - presented by etc. etc. I don't have detailed regimental histories so have no source of reference. I would be most grateful if anyone could shed light on the term MORRIS TUBE. Many thanks in anticipation. David

[John Mulcahy]

Morris tubes were inserts placed into service rifles to allow them to fire smaller calibre rounds (usually 0.22 inch)

This allow rifle practice to take place on miniature or indoor ranges.

The very first weapon I fired in my service was a "Morris Tube" SMLE, firing 0.22" rounds. This was in 1984, the SMLE probably dated to pre 1914 !!!

John

John - You are a star ! Many thanks indeed - I owe you one. David

[Eddie Parks]

Your previous reply is absolutely correct. Later versions were in .22LR, but there was an earlier version that fired a unique centrefire, rimmed, bottlenecked .22. They go back to the late 1800.