1914 Lithgow SMLE .303 Service Rifle……………..SOLD

A really good example of a WW1  SMLE produced in Australia

A genuine World War One Survivor.

The standard .303  SMLE rifle built in 1914 at the Lithgow Works in Australia in the second full year of production.  Serial numbered 11304 lands it in the factory record of 1914 to 1915. This corresponds with the wrist stamping of 1914.  Underneath the bolt head on the right side of the wrist it is marked with a seven pointed star around the capital “A” – this was the early Lithgow inspection mark over the Lithgow shield containing the words “LITHGOW  / SHT.LE  /  III” over the date 1914.

The matching bolt with “D” shaped cocking piece is serial numbered on the back of the bolt arm. The cocking piece also carries other standard inspection stamps.  Ten shot detachable magazine with trigger guard also marked with the star “A” and a “T”.  The safety catch marked with a “III” and the broard arrow on the left of the action.  Loading bridge over action and magazine cutt-off  below bolt.   The breech marked with the serial number and Australian and South African inspection marks.  The action and bolt retain most of their finish and opporate smoothly.

Standard rear sights graduated from 200 the 2000 yards but not fitted with windage adjustment.  Sight protector ears stamped with broard arrow. Standard fore-sight with “protective ear” nose cap and bayonet fitting.  Sling swivle and mid band marked with broard arrow and inspectors marks.

The wood work is complete and not split, but it is dented.  It has a good patina to it which is even and rich but there are many dents….what does one expect from a rifle that has seen so much.  I’ll tell you what you dont expect – that is a very good bore with strong rifling with shard edges and deep grooves. I beleive the barrel may have been changed in 1958 from a marking underneath the wood work.  Can’t really see why this rifle will not shoot straight. 

Modern British proofs applied this year.  Rear sling swivle and brass butt plate with trap for cleaning gear. Plastic oil bottle.  This is a fine and very shootable World War One period SMLE that looks like it will carry on well into its next century of use.

£495.00

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