.45 Gardner Gatling

[Rrickoshae]

Please see the two rounds shown. Both appear to be .45 Gardner, a black powder dated 1883 and an undated Cordite version. But although the shoulder and crimp line are identical, the case lengths differ slightly and the cordite version appears to have a thicker rim. The case length, as measured by a steel tape measure, of the black powder round is 62mm, the other is 60mm. These measurements are only as accurate as the Chinese tape measure! The headstamps are 8 R broad arrow L 3 and R broad arrow L C I
Did the case lengths vary on these rounds?
many thanks, Dave

 

[ron3350]

You need to study P.Labbett's book or similar for the full history.
Early Mk1 black powder had thin rim and later Mk2 had the thicker rims and around 63mm case length. They had white patches.
The Cordite Mk1 had the shorter 60.5mm case and an orange patch. Approved 1896?

 

[Rrickoshae]

Many thanks ron3350, that solves that one for me
regards, Dave