S.M.L.E. By Enfield No I Mk III for 1914………….(F 933) SOLD
Created on June 23rd 2021
Early WW 1 SMLE by Enfield for 1914
A very clean, refurbished, example of the famous World War One, Short Lee Enfield Mark III Rifle. Chambered in .303 with ten-shot detachable box magazine. Apart from retaining its early Enfield features, one of this rifles strongest points is the replacement South African barrel that was fitted in the fifties. Its bore is in excellent condition. The rifle measures 44.5/8″ in overall length. The round blued barrel is 25.1/4″ long and the trigger Pull measured to centre is 13.3/8″. Manufactured originally in 1914 and is still fitted with early, pre-“star” components it has a complete replacement set of woodwork fitted. An interesting tiger stripe in the fore-end catches the light.
This No 1 Mk III SMLE bears the serial number “P 7933” on both the RHS of the receiver and the rear of the bolt arm. The cocking piece is the early “D” shaped fitting. In the RHS of the action the magazine cut-off is still in position and fully functional. The RHS of the butt socket is marked with the Royal cypher over “G.R.” Beneath that are the following markings; ” ENFIELD / 1914 / SHT LE / III.” Loading guide over action and safety marked “III” on LHS at rear. Long range aperture eye-piece. The receiver shows Enfield acceptance stamps and on the RHS of the same is a clear opposing arrow mark. (Sold out of Service) The removable bolt head is marked with the single letter “U”. The top flat of the receiver has had a marking removed and has lost its colour. The top flat of the knox form clearly shows new Nitro-Proof marks.
The rear sight is protected by steel ears with dished sides – correct for an early SMLE. The sights do have the facility to adjust for windage and are graduated from 200 to 2000 yards. Both components of the long range dial are in position; these worked in tandem to provide ranging for long distance or suppressive fire. Pinched ear front sight protection and bayonet stud marked with matching serial number. A very interesting and rare attachment is in place to hinder the ingress of dirt or grit into the barrel . It is mounted on the LHS of the nose-cap; and known as a “Flanders Flap ” It consists of a steel cover which is spring loaded to flip in or out of position with a little push from the hand. This is a genuine item with the makers name stamped onto the outside reading “BRANDHAUER & CO” (Partially obscured) A neat attachment and a very rare thing.
The replacement woodwork appears to be South African as it has a marking on the underside of the fore-end which consists of a broad arrow over a combined “D” and “E” lettering. Broad arrow Enfield acceptance mark on the underside of the fore-end cap. Vacant polished brass disc in RHS of butt. Stacking hook in position and two sling swivels with a very good leather sling. In-fact its so good I can’t quite believe its genuine although it is stamped with the date “1914” and the initials “R broad arrow “T”. Its very supple and could reasonably be used in shooting. Brass butt-plate with trap for oil bottle and pull-through. The stocks are in fine condition with little to No damage; suggesting they were fitted outside the rifle’s military life-span. Mechanically fine, Nitro-proofed with an immaculate bore. Ready to use. Pattern 08 bayonets available in stock, at present, to add if so wished. There is also a canvas action cover which goes with this rifle dated 1916. A Brass oil bottle could also be added from stock at extra cost.
A fully equipped early War S.M.L.E. with extras – a must have for military rifle shooters and collectors alike.
Stock No’ F 933
£ 1450. (Sold)
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