IOFB Mark 1

Notes: The IOFB (Indian Ordnance Factory Board) Mark 1 revolver is a modernized version of a very old design – the British Enfield revolver (which was itself a development of the Webley revolver of the 19th century). The Mark 1 retains virtually all the rather antiquated features of the Enfield revolver – break-open loading and unloading, automatic case ejection when the revolver is opened, a grip shape only slightly modified from that of the original Enfield design, and the Enfield revolver’s rugged construction (which may have been the major factor in the Indians adopting the Mark 1). The Mark 1 revolver was adopted in 1995, and is issued only to Indian Police forces and certain government agencies, as well as being sold to certain security agencies and being offered on the export market.

Perhaps even stranger than the anachronistic design is the ammunition it fires -- .32 Smith & Wesson Long, a cartridge long out of general use except in blackpowder form by Cowboy Shooting Enthusiasts in the US. Of course, the Indians use modern propellant for their rounds, but it is a mystery why they chose this rather low-powered cartridge. Operation is otherwise the same as the typical late 19th/early 20th century Enfield revolver. One may fire the Mark 1 in single or double-action modes, and this requires only a simple switch. The hammer is quite large and prominent, and easily snagged when drawing from a concealed carry position. The Mark 1 revolver is, however, simple in operation and easy to maintain.

Weapon

Ammunition

Weight

Magazines

Price

IOFB Mark 1

.32 Smith & Wesson Long

0.7 kg

6 Cylinder

$117

Weapon

ROF

Damage

Pen

Bulk

SS

Burst

Range

IOFB Mark 1

DAR

1

Nil

1

4

Nil

5