Lee Enfield collecting

[JS569]

Hi All

I’ve got a bit of a conumdrum-over the last 2 years I noticed there was a couple of rifles in my collection which just weren’t getting used, a P14, a k31 and to a lesser extent a No4. A number of months ago I thought why not sell them to provide funds for something I’m really interested in. So I’ve have since moved the rifles on to good new homes with the intention of replacing with No1 MkV which I’ve always found to be an interesting piece, I have found a rifle with a dealer who claims it to be of good quality, condition and plenty of live in the barrel- the dealer was recommended by another dealer who is a good personal friend so I have no problems with the quality of the rifle.

Here is my problem, I am an Enfield type of guy- I already own a BSA 1917 No1 MkIII* which is in fantastic condition and I love that rifle particularly because of the history, the looks of it (SMLE’s in general) and the connection with the first world war which is another hobby of mine. However I’ve always hankered after No1 MkIII with cut off and swivel on the nose cap- not much difference from my BSA I know but I guess it’s part of collecting (after seeing Dromia's on here the other week that got me thinking!!!).

So my question is do go for the MkV or ask the dealer to send a MKIII that I know he has and will be is in great condition? Or here is a final curve ball-what about a No5? I have an M44 Nagant which I find great fun. I’ve obviously got the funds waiting but do I save a bit of cash and get something cheaper than the MkV or should I jump at the chance of a MKV?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts guys!

[Rearlugs]

Make very sure the No1 MkV is worth buying. There has been quite an industry in rebuilding these, often from just the bare receiver.

As with all collecting, its best not to spend money on something expensive (eg sniper rifles, No1 MkVs, etc) until you absolutely know what you are looking at yourself, and not reliant on somebody else's opinion.

No doubt your dealer friends are knowledgeable, but i have to say that there are very many dealers who are super and honest blokes, but who are not themselves sufficiently expert in a particular make of rifle to know whether its a rebuild, or a fake, or indeed something rare and unique.


If you are going to collect Enfields - and, IMHO, they are the only rifle worth collecting! - its best to set about it in a realistic way. Go to the cops, tell them you intend to collect & research Enfields, and get about 5 or 10x .303" slots. Start by looking for good specimens of something reasonably affordable - such as No1s (they only made about 5 million, and they're all different.....so you have to try and collect the whole set!). Read the books, join the forums, build up your knowledge. Look at lots and lots and lots of rifles.....

[Dougan]

If you like SMLEs then why not all three

As you've got rid of your No.4 and said you like the history of rifles; then would a No.5 suit you?...What about a Long Lee?

[JS569]

Thanks guys, I've been collecting now for the best part of 12 years and haven't stepped into a rifle lightly. Skennertons book is well thumbed, but I think your right. I'm looking for something which I'm interested in and that is likley to be the mkIII given its connections with the war and it will sit nicely with my MKIII*. I'd be quite happy with a No5 given the fun factor but it's not necessarily the iconic enfield which really interests me.

[JS569]

If you like SMLEs then why not all three

As you've got rid of your No.4 and said you like the history of rifles; then would a No.5 suit you?...What about a Long Lee?

Not sure on the long lee Dougan, it's never quite tickled me.mi think partly because the ones I've seen and shot have been converted as antiques rarely seeing the light of day. I think I, after something I can have some fun with at the range without fear of 'scratching my classic aston' if that makes sense.