1916 SMLE by Enfield with Canadian Markings…….SOLD

A real survivor of the Great War;   An SMLE by Enfield, Dated 1916 with Canadian ownership stampings

This originally British SMLE by Enfield is of standard specification at the time.  It measures 44″ in total length, with a barrel length of 25.1/2″.  The trigger pull length is 12.3/4″.  Stocked in Walnut, the stock is in great used condition without too many heavy dings or dents, but with a shortening of the two fingers either side of the rear sight.  Also, unfortunately the ID disk in the side of the butt is missing.

The wrist between butt-stock and for-end is marked on the RHS in the normal manner, as follows;  “Georgian Crown over GR  /  ENFIELD / 1916  /  SHT, LE / III* ”  The other side has the mark three safety mounted upon it.  The receiver is marked also on the RHS with the serial number; “C / 9057”  and various proofs.  The LHS of the same has a very clear Canadian Ownership mark  ( The C containing the broad arrow upon its side.)  This is actually repeated on the barrel under the hand-guard, but not visible on first inspection.  Also visible on the LHS of the receiver are some old “GR” inspection marks, which are wearing away.

The bolt is equipped with the older “D” shaped cocking piece.  The matching serial number is stamped upon the back of the bolt arm.  The action is not equipped with the magazine cut-off or the slot for that item.  Being 1916 this therefore looks to be an early Mark Three.  Other supporting information includes the rear sight without windage and the relief cut in the for-end for the long range volley sight, which is also absent.

The fore-sight has the later wide protection in the form of ears all as part of the nose cap.  The bayonet stud on the very front of the nose-cap has the rifles matching serial number clearly stamped into it.  Standard  ten shot removable magazine in good order, two sling swivels.  The butt has the solid brass butt plate with trap for cleaning equipment  ( trap contains later oiler )  When the rear sight is turned over for inspection, the matching serial number is clearly stamped on the underside.  Some enfield inspection stamps are also visible  under the wrist, with traces of the serial number just visible on the underside of  the forend, immediately behind the steel forend cap. This SMLE still has the early serrated trigger for better purchase.  The magazine release catch is also inside trigger guard.  It is nice to note some of the screws securing the sling swivels have War Department arrows stamped into the heads.

The action cycles perfectly well and is remarkably smooth for its age.  The strength in the main spring is easily apparent when opening the bolt as it springs back immediately if not released first.  There has been no refinishing  applied to the rifle, yet there still remains a decent amount of original finish but with strong wear overall.  The pattern of distress looks to be absolutely correct to the weapon.  Most wear is on all the high edges and points of contact with a sweating soldier.  The most surprising feature about this rifle is the condition of the bore.  It is in fine condition.  It is bright, with five-groove strong grooves, no pitting or misting.  It looks well maintained as opposed to the outside which seems to be heavily used.

A survivor, still able to do what it was designed for – now at the ripe old age of 98.  Freshly proofed at the London Proof House.

Stock No’ f 400

£ 895…..SOLD

Comments Off on 1916 SMLE by Enfield with Canadian Markings…….SOLD