GUN SPRING 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2017
SOLE KNOWN SURVIVING SPECIMEN BRITISH R.S.A.F. ENFIELD .303 SMLE 1902 TROOP TRIALS MODEL A PATTERN RIFLE. BRITISH SMLE 1902 TRIALS PATTERN A B156 303 MODERN; C&R Cal. 303. British. 25.2" bbl. Described in Ian's Skennerton's reference book The Lee Enfield, pg 460 this is the only known surviving specimen of the A pattern troop trials rifle from 1902 which were made in 1901. It has a special rear sight protector on hand guard, a blade front sight with bead, fully enclosed front sight protector, and special buttplate. 1-pc hand guard with protector wings make this rifle immediately recognizable. There is a white band of paint on the butt with initials "WB". This is intended to indicate to armorers this rifle has non-interchangeable parts. Butt is marked with solitary "S". No markings, only proofs and SNs. Matching receiver, bolt, bbl, sight, nosecap and forend. Rear sight graduated to 2000 yards; dial sight plate from 1600 to 2800 yards. Robust black leather sling included. PROVENANCE: From the Estate of World Renowned British Rifle Collector Robert W. Faris. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish extremely fine. Orig blue on metal parts starting to turn a pleasing brown patina with wear to the high edges, somewhat thinner finish and brown patina on magazine. Buttplate exhibits several small dings. Bore has strong rifling turning dark in the grooves. Wood is very good to fine with numerous dents, dings and gouges, but remains completely serviceable. This A pattern rifle together with the B pattern also offered in this auction are the only known survivors of 1,055 specimens made in 1901. They will become the great pride of whichever discerning and advanced collector is fortunate enough to acquire them. 51608-1 JWK (15,000-20,000)