Pattern 1914 Rifle by ERA (Eddystone)…( F 960) Sold
Created on September 18th 2021
Very Fine example of the P 14 “American Enfield” by ERA.
Chambered in .303 with a five shot internal magazine and a Mauser type turn-bolt action. 46.1/4″ in overall length. The round blued barrel is a nominal 26″ long and the trigger Pull is 13.1/2″ to centre. This P 14 is in wonderful condition with a “Fatso” stock and period leather marked sling (markings illegible but dated 1916!) Full military stock and handguards with a superb aged patina built up all over – not something that is easily reproduced. The fact that it is without finger groves also hints at the early built of this rifle.
The butt stock has a blank brass disk located in the RHS adjacent are the pattern markings. These read and identify the rifle as; ” WD arrow / Circled I.E. \ star / PAT’ 14″ meaning Pattern 1914 Mk I by Eddystone. When, in 1916 to 1917 they produced in excess of 600,000 rifles.
The serial number of the rifle is 276363 and is found on the receiver, under the bolt arm and on the rear cross bar of the sight ladder. All other small components carry the small “E” of Eddystone. It is unusual that the receiver and bolt arm do not carry the obvious * of the pattern conversion, but the stock and the extractor do. This rifle also is fitted with the stock of the early Eddystone “Fatso or Fatboy” type consisting of a rather bulky swelling at the point of grip for the fore-end. On the LHS of the same is a diagonal relief cut, enabling a clear line of sight to the front volley sight, since removed in the Mk I upgrade. Meaning the rear aperture for the volley system is also absent. The only fault which is correctable if needed is either a deep, but fine gouge or a crack in the lower section of the swelling. Without disassembly it is difficult to discern if this is a split in the hardwood or something less serious. It appears sound and has been used in this condition to no detriment of performance.
Behind the trigger guard are acceptance stampings and crown marks. Otherwise the stock is very fine and highly original to the rifle. It has a very pleasing finish to its surface and is made of the old staple of American Black Walnut. Smooth butt-plate with trap, twin swivels and stacking hook. Serrated trigger, bolt release and safety. The bolt is in good functioning order with a bright body, handle and shroud blued. Blueing all over is strong with little visible wear. Front sight protected by steel ears. The receiver is simply marked “ERA / 276363”. The rear sight ladder is graduated from 200 to 1600 yards and there is an aperture battle sight for closer distances. George V crossed pennants proof to outside of action wall along with broad arrow.
The bore on this rifle is in excellent condition with five grove LH twist 1:10 rifling. Cleaning or shooting would improve. Groves are deep and there appears no pitting or scratching. Apart from the rifles strong external conditional appearance the bore is this rifles’ strongest feature. A fine survivor from a distant time past at sturdy to-boot!
Stock No’ F 960
£ 1250. (Sold)
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