A Short History of Firearms in India

 Hello Everyone !!

Firearms in India have a long and layered history, evolving from early matchlocks to modern arms legislation. Their development reflects shifts in technology, colonial control, and national security priorities.

Firearms entered India in the early 16th century, during a time of significant military and political change.

Early arrival via Mughals and Ottomans : (1500-26)

  • The 1st confirmed use of firearms in India was in the 1st battle of Panipat (1526)
  • Mughal king Babur used Turkish style matchlocks and artillery (field guns), cannons 
Portuguese & Coastal Introductions : (Late 1400's-1500)
  • Portuguese explorers arriving in Goa (1498 onwards) also brought gunpowder weapons like Arquebus long rifle and small cannons
Spread in 16th & 17th century :
  • Indian kingdoms (Mughals, Rajput, Deccan sultanates, Marathas etc.) began using matchlock pistols (Toradar), muskets and small artillery.
  • Firearms were gradually Indianized, with local craftsmen producing ornate and decorated weapons
European Imports : (18th century)
  • The British, French and Dutch East India Companies introduced flintlock muskets and more sophisticated cannons
  • Indian princely states started commissioning firearms from British and European gunsmiths
Introduction of Royal Hunting Guns : (19-20th cent)
  • Custom-built double barrel rifles, shotguns and pistols were imported or gifted to Maharajas.
British Colonial Rule and Rifle Revolution : (1857-1900)
  • The revolt of 1857 was caused partly by the introduction of Enfield Pattern 1853 rifled msuket
  • Late 19th century saw breech-loading rifles enter Indian use
  • The British began manufacturing more sophisticated arms locally via the Ishapore Rifle Factory (1904)
World War-I : (1914-18)
  • British Indian soldiers used Lee-Enfield rifle (SMLE Mk-III), Martini-Henry rifle, Webley revolver, carbines
World War-II : (1939-45)
  • Lee-Enfield no. 1 Mk-III rifle, Lee-Enfield no. 4 Mk-I, Ishapore SMLE rifle
  • Webley Mk-IV & VI revolvers, Enfield no. 2 revolver
Post Independence : (After 1947)
  • The Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) was established in 1979.
  • OFB produced bolt-action rifles, assault rifles, carbine (SMG), LMG (Light Machine Gun), sniper rifle, pistols, revolver, shotguns, civilian sporting rifles, special forces rifles, anti-material rifles etc.

Thank you for Reading !!  

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