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 B PATTERN RIFLE. BRITISH SMLE 1902 TRIALS PATTERN B 128C 303 MODERN; C&R Cal. 303. British. 25.2" bbl. Described in Ian's Skennerton's reference book The Lee Enfield, pg 461 this is the only known surviving specimen of the B 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 jagged edge where bead once was, fully enclosed front sight protector, and an alloy buttplate. 2-pc hand guard, rear handguard stamped "95" inside protector. Stocked is marked with solitary "S" forward of buttstock disc. Receiver, bbl and sight numbers match. Special strengthened middle band for cavalry issue strap stud. No markings only proofs and SNs. Leaf graduated to 2000 yards; dial sight plate from 1600 to 2800 yards. PROVENANCE: From the Estate of World Renowned British Rifle Collector Robert W. Faris. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish extremely fine. Orig blue finish turning a pleasing brown patina on action with wear to bare metal at high edges. More of a lustrous blue finish remaining on other components with wear to gray metal at high points. Bolt knob finish thinning to grey metal as is cavalry strap stud. Bore has strong rifling, dark in the grooves. Wood is very good with some significant dings and bruises throughout but still serviceable, and let's face it - it is what it is, as the only known surviving B pattern 1902 troop trials rifle of the 1,055 made in 1901. The A & B patterns which are offered individually in this auction present a tremendous opportunity for the advance British rifle collector. 51608-2 JWK (15,000-20,000)