Early Australian Lithgow SMLE Rifle………….( F 993)
Created on April 30th 2022
Early Lithgow SMLE Rifle
Of standard Military specifications. Chambered in 303 with a ten round detachable box magazine. Marked as “FTR” (Factory Through Refit) with dated Slazenger woodwork for 1950. Also marked “D broad arrow D” on LHS of receiver ring meaning downgraded arm to reserve. 43.3/8″ in overall length. Round blued barrel 25″ and trigger Pull to centre 12.1/4″. On the side of the receiver which is marked F.T.R. is the serial number A 9373. There are many Lithgow inspection marks, one dated 19 (1919) and the top flat of the receiver ring has been drilled and professionally blanked (for scope mounting.) The loading bridge guide also shows the same.
Fully stocked in Australian Coachwood and light Beech this is a handsome looking rifle. The coachwood sections have the brass reinforcement screws at the rear of the action. The light coloured butt-stock has the semi-pistol grip and a marked ID disc in the RHS of the butt. Marking added in place of vacant hole; “W.A.E.F. / 703.” Western Australia Enrolled Force. This could conceivably be tied to the fact that the rifle was in effect down graded at some point in its life and volunteers were often equipped with such weapons.
Finish all over a strong but fading grey parkerisation. Bolt arm has matching number but square headed cocking piece which must have been added in the FTR. Bolt head is an “M” fitment. Rear sights graduated from 200 to 2000 yards. Front sight guarded by early form steel ears. The fore-end incorporates the bayonet mounting stud and this too is numbered to the rifle correctly. Brass butt plate with trap for cleaning equipment (a/f) Twin sling swivels there is no provision on Australian rifles for the stacking loop. The underside of the fore-cap being marked “BA” This often turns up on Australian rifles and means Bathurst Rifle Factory No 2 NSW.
The wrist of the rifle is strongly marked on the RHS with the early Lithgow shield with “A” marked star on top. Within the shield it reads; ” LITHGOW / SHT.LE*” over the date of 1918. On the obverse of the same it is marked “MA57” this is the FTR mark for Lithgow and the date it was carried out. Safety to rear LHS of action marked “III” Rear sight guard marked with broad arrow. Trigger guard marked “BA” Other Australian Stars and inspection marks appear on all the normal places. The bore is soft but complete and dark within the groves. Action smooth and mechanically fine. Serrated trigger. Complete two piece hand guard over barrel. Fine coach wood stock marked with a solitary “H” underneath just in front of the trigger guard and magazine frame.
A fine early SMLE by Lithgow which has seen a lot in its 104 years but has just successfully passed proof again on import to the UK.
Stock No’ F 993
£ 825.
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