Betwix Wars SMLE Rifle by Lithgow………………..(F 1181)
Created on April 7th 2025
Fine between wars, Australian SMLE Rifle by Lithgow
Of standard Military specifications. Chambered in 303 with a ten round detachable box magazine. Marked on the LHS at the wrist “MA / LITHGOW / SMLE/ III/1927”. The MA is thought to either stand for Munitions Australia or as thought later Made in Australia. It is found on all Lithgow built SMLE’s. Clearly marked with matching serial number; “B 17456″ on LHS of receiver ring which is repeated on shank of barrel under small rear hand guard. Also clearly displayed, without any interference, on the rear of the bolt arm. Measuring 45″ in overall length. Round blued barrel 25” and trigger Pull to centre 13.1/2″. Visible Lithgow inspection marks on the action at rear.
The matchin bolts cocking piece is the older rounded or “D-shaped” fitment. On close inspection of the action it is possible to see the openings and drillings for the magazine cut-off. However the woodwork is not relifed for use of such. The bolt head has an “M” fitment mark on the exposed side. The LHS of the receiver ring has a good display of War department and GR final proof marks alongside the gas escape hole, plus an “MA/VIII” mark. Safety on same side to rear of action with the “III” clearly showing. Trigger guard has a clear star around an “A” in the centre. Top of wrist woodwork marked “S” and “K” meaning unknown.
As with other early Australian rifles the weapon is fully stocked in Italian Walnut making it an unusually handsome looking rifle. Never-the-less they have the brass reinforcement screws at the rear of the action and the front section of the hand-guard. The richly coloured butt-stock has the semi-pistol grip and a blank ID disc in the RHS of the butt. There is evidence of previous deployment in the form of faded cartouches and dates, most are difficult to read. None of the visible numbers make much sense and the roundle is impossible to read but there is one marking that is tantalizingly decipherable; it looks to read “C.M.F./T.” It is possible that this relates to The Civilian Military Force – Tasmania! There is one other possibility that the new keeper could explore; sometimes if the brass roundle is removed, previous markings have been found on the reverse. However, it looks like its been so long undisturbed, that I left it so.
Finish to the metalwork shows wear to the same level all over except for the magazine which is strong. A strong silvering and high edge wear from the passage of time has developed overmost of the parts. Rear sights graduated from 200 to 2000 yards. The underside of the same neatly marked with matching serial number. Rear sights guarded by flat form steel ears. Fore sights guarded by “pinched” ears. The fore-end cap incorporates the bayonet mounting, unnumbered but, with “A” stars on both front protective wings. Correctly undrilled stacking mount position. Brass butt plate with trap for cleaning equipment (a/f) Twin sling swivels. The underside of the fore-cap being marked “BA” This often turns up on Australian rifles and means Bathurst Rifle Factory No 2 NSW. Correctly hinged brass mid band.
Chamber clear of decay or pitting. Bore very good with clear uninterupted rifling. Good edges to lands and depth to grooves. Action smooth and mechanically fine. Serrated trigger. Complete two piece hand guard over barrel. A really good example of the Australian SMLE which has survived remarkably well considering it is close to its 100th birthday! If only they could tell you where they have been ………..
Stock No’ F 1181 – FAC Required
£ 1260.
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