Rare Pattern 14 Mk I Rifle by Eddystone….(F 971) SOLD
Created on February 1st 2022
A rare P 14 Mk I Rifle by Eddystone
The most notable aspect of this rifle is that it is an early specification P 14 by Eddystone. It shows early markings, with omission of the “star,” thereby indicating the lack of alteration of the bolt locking lug which most P14s have undergone. Also, the markings on the stock show the earlier configuration excluding the “star“. Chambered in .303 with a Mauser bolt system and an internal 5-shot magazine. Built in America as material support for Britain before the US entered the World War one. These rifles are often referred to as the American Enfields, Pattern 1914 or Model 14 rifles. This example carries the serial number “11219” which is low and explains why it has the unaltered locking lugs. It was probably made in early 1916. How it escaped the improvement of the bolt and the later Weedon Repair Standard is unknown but, this makes it an exceedingly rare rifle and commands a strong premium in value and worth to the serious military rifle collector.
To all intents and purposes, on first inspection it looks the same as any other P14 but the hidden features detailed above give this rifle its increased worth. Another nice retention is the configuration of the stock and the early volley sights. The volley sights were often removed with parts being irreparably milled away and blanked off. This rifle retains those very specific early volley sights front and rear on the LHS. The stock is also original to this model as it is what was known as the “Fatso” sock. It has a distinct swelling in the fore-end, so much so that it had to be specially milled away so it did not obscure the pointer of the volley sight. It actually feels quite chunky when compared to a regular or later P14. The stock is in a fine grained American Black Walnut with a semi-pistol grip and handguard over.
Steel contoured butt-plate with hatch for cleaning equipment (A/F). The RHS of the but-stock has a brass disc fitted with the number “20” stamped in. These were often removed and plugged later on with P14’S so it is nice to see that still present. Markings adjacent to the disc read from above; “WD broad arrow / circled IE / PATT 14 / EY ” The WD has been struck out, probably when sold out of service. On the underside of the pistol grip are more markings; – “2K / crown inspection mark.”
The round plain receiver is marked “ERA / 11219” with gas escape hole to RHS. The cranked bolt handle carries the matching number and a solitary “E” on the underside. On the topside is a partial “EY” and something else which could be struck out with two opposing arrows or a simple cross. Other bolt components all carry a single “E” for Eddystone. Markings upon the action wall include;- on top crown/R1/A and crown/R 8″. The outside wall of the same shows;- “E Y / GR (George V) proof and acceptance marks.”
Safety catch to RHS rear of action. Serrated trigger. Original, as numbered to rifle, standard rear military ladder sight, graduated from 200 to 16 yards with battle sight aperture. Guarded front sight. Steel fore-end cap with bayonet lug on underside. Sling swivels attached with faded blued webbing sling intact. Condition of blueing is strong all over the action and barrel. Only some high edge ware to bolt and butt-plate. Stock extra fine condition with minimal signs of the long military life this rifle has survived. 5-grove LH twist bore. Slightly soft bore but complete with darker grooves. The rifle is a nominal 46″ in overall length. The round blued barrel is 26″ long and the trigger pull is 13.1/2″ to centre.
This is a fine and original early P 14 in great condition considering it advanced years and one of very few surviving unaltered of its type. A true collectible Classic Military Rifle in very good condition. Not to be overlooked by serious collectors.
Stock No’ F 971
£ 1795.00 SOLD
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