I want to purchase a Lee enfield to enhance my Chindit display. What should I be looking to purchase? I have read , MK 3 and also MK4. So any knowledge of which one, I would be grateful for your input.Veronica.
From most images I have seen the 'Chindits' used the SMLE, they are out of the time frame for the No 5 as well which I always liked.
Go with the SMLE (Rifle No. 1 MkIII or MkIII*). I have seen pictures of Wingate himself with both the SMLE and the No. 4, but the former was more common in the theater. If you want to be really picky, try and get one that was made at the Ishapore arsenal. The No. 5 appeared later in the CBI.
A couple of the rifles i have viewed have come in at an average of £390.However, one of these was a little tatty.I am going to be picky as there seems to be alot of choice.I also liked TTH'S comment on the Ishapore arsenal.Veronica.
Watch out for some of the ex-Indian/Pakistani MkIII* on the market which are missing small parts of the stock which lie by the backsight (easily broken so dispensed with I assume). It is not cruicial but is a modification not in line with British practice.
Thank you, Ceolredmonger. I am going to have to be careful with this. As this rifle is going to be a gift to my Son and Grandson( 6YRS OLD) This is going to be family history. I have researched family back to 1599, taken 20 + years. WW11 family history is therefore still new to me, ( 5years) but it is already an addiction.Kind regards, Veronica.
Another caution: The SMLE is still a common weapon in the Indian subcontinent, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, and in the last two countries many unlicensed workshop copies have been made. These are known as "Khyber Pass" Enfields, and they vary enormously in quality. Some are close to factory standard, while others may be unsafe. Khyber Pass guns often carry false markings as well, imitations of the Broad Arrow, bogus proof symbols, etc. If you do find a gun that purports to be an Ishapore SMLE then check it out thoroughly before you buy, preferably with the help of an experienced gunsmith or collector. This is especially important if you ever intend to shoot the weapon.
The best living authority on all things Lee-Enfield is probably Ian Skennerton. He has a wesbite, here, http://www.skennerton.com/ , with information about his books on the subject. These might be obtainable through a local library system. Somewhere or other I think you can even find guides to SMLE serial numbers, which could you establish whether a rifle for sale is genuine or not.
Sound advice TTH.I knew nothing at all when I asked. Feel enlightened to all the possible pit-falls.I will get expert advice. Thank you. Veronica.