R.F.I. No 2A in 7.62mm…………………………..(f 730) SOLD

A very good example of the 7.62 RFI  No 2 A from India

The reincarnation of the No I mark III* known as the “2A”.  Chambered in 7.62 (.308) with a ten shot magazine and Enfield adapted bolt system.  This RFI  (Rifle Factory Ishapore) manufactured rifle is fully stocked as was its Grandfather, but the nose-cap is noticeably more square in appearance.  The principle is still the same with “ears” providing protection for the fore-sight but the design far simpler, just more squared in design.  The bayonet stub has the correct matching serial number stamped into its front face.  What is not possible to glean from looking at the rifle is that fact that these rifles were made out of a better steel – an “EN” steel; so the receiver is actually stronger than its forbearer.  This was because of the increased load exerted by the 7.62mm cartridge.  Also immediately obvious is that the detachable ten-shot magazine has been redesigned and once again has a more square profile.  The magazine rib carries the serial number AC 6002.

The rifle measures 44.1/2″ in overall length.  It has a round 25.1/4″ barrel with  4-groove RH twist Enfield rifling.  The trigger pull measures 13.1/2″ to the centre of the redesigned alloy butt-plate.  The butt-plate still retains the trap for storage of cleaning equipment.  Square headed cocking piece and matching serial number on rear face of bolt arm.  The serial number is “A 14602” which is clearly marked on the receiver.  There also seems to be a three character, Indian script marking on the LHS of the receiver, adjacent to the gas-escape holes.  Conventional charging bridge over the action, which is built to take the more narrow clip of the semi-rimmed NATO round.  Conventional safety on rear LHS of the action.  Serrated trigger and magazine release catch within trigger guard.

The RHS of the wrist strap has the three lions of Ishapore  device over “RIFLE / 7.62mm 2A / R.F.I / 1964”   otherwise the only other markings are on the underside of the fore-end in the form of the broad arrow / EFD marking.  The stocks are in excellent condition, there are no cracks, shakes or splits and the surface has developed a good even patina.  Grain is easily visible and wood to metal fit is good.  The rear sight has the correct, later pattern, marked unit which is only graduated from 200 to 800 yards and is marked R.F.I. with an earlier manufacturing date.  The serial number on the reverse of the sight does not match but, this is the only other, mismatched item on the entirety of the weapon.

The bore is very clean with no pitting or misting throughout its length – crown is fine.  Altogether a good example of the iconic SMLE and the last before Britain switched to far more advanced rifles.  A definite stage in the complete Enfield story for the discerning collector.

Stock No’ f 730

£ 375.  SOLD

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