The Natal Carbineers Regiment traces its roots to 1854 but it was formally raised on 15 January 1855 and gazetted on 13 March of that year.
In 1913, the Regiment's two 'wings' became known as the First and Second Mounted Rifles (Natal Carbineers) and in 1934 they re-assumed the name 1st and 2nd Natal Carbineers.