S.M.L.E. No I Mk III* by B.S.A. & Co for 1917……….(F 1047) SOLD

Government Contract S.M.L.E. No I Mk III*

Built in 1917 under Government contract by BSA, to equip British and Commonwealth forces in the struggle against the Kaisers’ Imperial Germany.  In standard military configuration for the Mark III *.  Chambered in .303 British with a detachable ten shot box magazine and Enfield bolt mechanism.  This rifle retains one pre-star feature in that the cocking piece is an early “D”-shaped fitment.  Otherwise it is all Mk III*.

This Short Magazine Lee-Enfield rifle measures a standard 44.3/8″ in overall length.  The round barrel is a nominal 25″ long and the trigger Pull on this rifle is 13″ to centre. Can be clip or individually loaded, there being a clip guide in the rear action bridge.  These clips would take five rounds each and were easy to load from above by simply pressing down on the loaded clip with the thumb, so forcing the five rounds into the magazine, followed by another.   There is an indent in the LHS outer action wall to allow the thumb to travel far enough down to empty the clip without fouling on the outer wall.  The box magazine is easily detached by the magazine release catch within the trigger guard.  Serrated trigger to aid grip.

This SMLE carries the serial number “H 37865” on the RHS of the receiver ring.  It also appears matching upon the rear of the bolt arm.  The underside of the rear sight and the front bayonet mounting stud under the muzzle.  Pleasingly it is also clearly stamped into the underside of the fore-end. In collectors terms this is an All matching example.   The rifle is fully stocked in a four-piece dark Walnut stock with many inspection marks under the wrist.  There is also a clear letter “P” meaning that the stock my have been treated with Paraffin to ensure its survival in the wet – hot jungle.  There is a solid brass butt-plate with trap for cleaning equipment (a/f) The serial number is repeated on the barrel knox form.

Woodwork showing the signs of a military life but not to the detriment of the piece. No serious damage.  A nice strong dark patina has built over the years.  Blueing is generally strong but there are loses in the most handled areas like the magazine.  The safety catch is mounted on the rear LHS of the action and is clearly marked “III”.  A brass ID disc is sunk into the RHS of the butt but is vacant of details.  There is a strong broad arrow marking under the serial number on the receiver.  Twin sling swivels and stacking hook.  The rifle comes with a military canvas sling.  The RHS of the wrist socket is marked externally as follows; –  “Royal Cypher / G.R. / B.S.A. & Co / 1917 / SHT. LE. / III*”.

Considering this rifle seems to still have its original barrel in position the bore is in excellent condition with strong clear, sharp edged 5-groove Enfield left-hand twist rifling.  There appears to be No pitting or misting and the lands and grooves still have depth.  Rear sights graduated from 200 to 2000 yards with windage adjustment.  Flat steel sight protectors either side.  Hinged mid band.  Pinched steel ear protection to front sight.  A really good looking World War One period British Infantryman’s rifle with life let in it yet.  CIP proofs on underside (out of sight).

The rifle comes with a date matched 1907 Pattern bayonet with black leather scabbard and wooden grips.  On the ricasso it is marked with the makers name;- “CHAPMAN” and the date of issue “4 – 17”  On the obverse there are many inspection markings and a Sold out of Service mark.  Stitching on the scabbard is complete.  One large dent into the bottom steel fitment of the scabbard, on the reverse.  A good blade with very good grips to the bayonet.  It fits securely onto the rifle.

Stock No F 1047

£ 1275.  SOLD

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