The Vickers MG Collection & Research Association has announced plans to stage a major public exhibition at Bisley in October 2026, offering visitors a rare opportunity to explore the history of one of Britain’s most significant military firearms.
The exhibition will take place from 2 to 5 October 2026 at Bisley Camp, where the association will present a museum-quality display dedicated to the story of the Vickers machine gun. The event will be held in the Vickers Room at The Pavilion and will showcase key artefacts from the VMGCRA collection.
According to the association, the exhibition will bring together a wide range of historical items that are normally kept in limited-access storage. This will mark the first time that many of these pieces have been displayed together publicly.
Alongside the physical exhibits, the display will explore the wider history of the Vickers machine gun, including how the weapon was used operationally, the training of the soldiers who operated it, and the way the system evolved over time. The exhibition will also highlight the broader roles the gun played in military service and the personal stories connected to it.
The VMGCRA’s objective is to educate the wider public about the Vickers machine gun and preserve the history surrounding its use. As part of this mission, the organisation maintains a collection and archive that can be viewed by appointment, as well as attending and hosting events throughout the year.
Entry to the exhibition will be free of charge. Guided tours and talks are expected to take place during the event for individuals and groups, with some sessions potentially subject to a small fee. Donations will also be welcomed to support the association’s ongoing educational work and future exhibitions.