HMS Espiegle was a Royal Navy Doterel-class sloop launched in 1880. She was constructed of composite construction – iron frames planked in wood. This design was intended to combine the strength of iron with the ability to sheath the hull in copper to prevent biofouling, an important consideration for ships operating in tropical waters.
Espiegle served primarily on foreign stations, typical for ships of her type and period, including service in the Pacific and Australia. Her duties generally involved protecting British interests, showing the flag, and suppressing piracy and the slave trade. These colonial duties frequently involved long periods at sea and in relatively remote locations.
In 1890, Espiegle underwent a refit. She was sold out of service in 1898. Espiegle was armed with two 7-inch (178mm) muzzle-loading rifled guns and four 64-pounder muzzle-loading rifled guns. Her armament reflected a move towards breech-loading guns, but also a period of mixed armament types as older guns were retained alongside newer technologies. She was powered by a compound steam engine and also carried a full sailing rig, reflecting the transitional nature of naval propulsion at the time. Steam provided speed and maneuverability when needed, while sails offered economy and extended range.