Montenegrin Krnka M1865/66
Sylvester Krnka · Rifle · Out Of Production · 1866
Also known as: Montenegrin Krnka, Crnogorska Krnka, M1866 Krnka
Overview
The Montenegrin Krnka M1865/66 is a single-shot, breech-loading rifle adopted by the Principality of Montenegro in 1866, several years before the Imperial Russian Army standardized the same Krnka system in 1869. Designed by the Czech-Austrian gunsmith Sylvester Krnka, it converted an existing muzzle-loading or early breech-loading rifle to fire a self-contained metallic cartridge by fitting a bronze receiver and a hinged steel breech block that lifts upward for loading. The Krnka became the principal military arm of Montenegro and, in richly silver-decorated form, an enduring national symbol.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 4500 g (158.7 oz) |
| Action Type | Hinged Breechblock |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 rounds |
| Effective Range | 300 m (328 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Frame Material | Bronze |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 15.24x40mmR Krnka · primary — also known as 15.24x40R, 6-line Krnka, .60 caliber Krnka, 6-line centerfire
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Single Shot
- Safety mechanisms: Half Cock Notch
- Features: Lifting Breech Block, Conversion Of Muzzleloader, Single Shot
Service history
Operators
- Principality of Montenegro · adopted 1866 · as Montenegrin M1865/66 Krnka
Conflicts
- Montenegrin-Ottoman War (1876-1878)
Production
Production years: 1866-1870s
Total Montenegrin Krnka conversions are not reliably documented; the Krnka system was the standard Montenegrin service arm through the late 19th century.
Origin
Country of origin: Austria
Designer: Sylvester Krnka
Notes
Montenegro's adoption of the Krnka system predated the Russian M1869 conversion; the exact base rifle and precise dimensions of the Montenegrin pattern are poorly documented. Many surviving examples are elaborately decorated with silver and coral in the Montenegrin national style and were carried as much for prestige as for combat.
Background
In Montenegro the Krnka became far more than a service rifle: elaborately engraved and inlaid with silver and coral, it was worn across the chest as a badge of honour and manhood, giving rise to the distinctive 'Montenegrina' style of decorated arms.