"2nd Afghan War 60th Rifles" Topic

Aside from uniform differences was the 60th trained in a more specialized way than regular British line at this time? By that I mean were they better marksmen; better at field craft or better skirmishers? Any insight is much appreciated. H

By the 1870s, the division between light and line infantry with regard to deployment and tactics was pretty much gone. All British infantry was trained to undertake the same tasks and tactically were no different. There were still differences in uniforms and drill on the parade ground but not 'in the field'. However, any single British regiment would maintain that they were the best and unique in what they did and how they did it.

The 60th, or Kings Royal Rifle Corps, was considered an elite regiment, up there with the Guards. For officers, its exclusivity and expensive life style earned it the nickname of the King's Rich Rude Rifles. I do not think the regiment performed any better or any worse than other regiments in Afghanistan. Afghanistan was the first major conflict to use the Martini-Henry where its firepower and range were impressive. Two years later, at the battle of Ingogo during the 1st Anglo-Boer War, the 60th, along with the Mounted Squadron, were bested by the Boers who proved themselves to be superior marksmen.

Thank you both, Suspicions confirmed. H