Uniform of the Volunteer Rifleman c1865

The infantry members of the Regiment in the 1860's wear pure wool scarlet jackets with contrasting dark blue collars and cuffs.  Trousers are dark blue with a half  inch red welt. The waist, shoulder belts and the percussion cap pouch are white leather. Possible and cartridge pouches are in black leather.The shako is a pattern 1855. Shako plates are silver for troops, gold for officers and depict the WA Swan, five stars and the unit motto (Vigilins). Buttons are brass with a embossed swan. Troops are armed with Pattern 1853 three band Enfield percussion rifles and Pattern 1853 socket bayonets. Sargents are armed with Pattern 1858 two band Enfield percussion rifles and Pattern 1856 Yataghan sword bayonets. Officers and senior NCO's are armed with Pattern 1822 infantry officers swords.

 Full Equipment List

(from Uniforms & Equipment of the British Army 1866

This  takes you to a complete kit list for a British soldier 1850's-60's. The completeness of such equipment for Volunteer units is open for discussion

    Personal Appearance

    During the Crimean War (1854 - 56) period beards were allowed. This practice was widespread, indeed almost universal in the British Army during the 1860s. Most photographs of the period show soldiers with huge bushy beards. However, their hair appears to be rather short and neat.