I own a Field's Patent Sidelever Martini rifle (large) with what appears to be an internal hammer. I haven't disassembled it yet so am not sure of the exact internal configuration, but will take a look soon and post pictures if possible.

The Field's Patent Sidelever rifles are apparently quite rare. I've seen pictures of their sidelever falling-block action in the de Haas and Grant books, and have even seen one example up close & personal, but have so far seen not even a picture of their sidelever Martini action. Apparently it's even rarer than the falling-block model.

So many Martinis, so little.......................
Regards, Joe

MB, I took my rifle apart (without any major malfunctions, amazing!) and found that it does indeed have an internal hammer. It's substantially identical to the later examples shown on pages 3, 4 and 5 of your website details, except my rifle has a pistol-grip lower tang. It's by far the most-ergonomically designed Martini I've seen, with the trigger comfortably set well to the rear and a very well-designed side safety lever as shown on the patent drawings. What may at first glance appear (in the drawings) to be a striker spring is actually, in the case of my rifle and the second example shown on your website, a firing pin retractor spring.

My rifle was originally made in cal 577/500 Westley Richards no. 2 Express but has been converted to 22LR with a Parker liner and target sights. It could be restored to original but the task would be difficult. The original highly-figured English walnut sporting buttstock is still present but the original forearm has been replaced and various other alterations have been performed. Too bad.

It's just another 'someday' project rifle to me, I've thought about restoring it but will probably either continue to shoot it or try to sell or trade it for something else. I've got too durn many project rifles as it is, need to consolidate some of 'em and finish some of the projects.

Many thanks for showing the patent detail drawings, you are indeed a gentleman.
Regards, Joe

Mr. Martini
I, too, want to thank you for your web site. Excellent information.