GUN SPRING 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2017
LITHGOW (AUSTRALIAN) .303 RIFLE NO. 6 MK I PROTOTYPE CARBINE.AUSTRALIAN (LITHGOW)SMLE MK III*/ NO. 6 MK IXP8303MODERN; C&RCal. 303. British. 20.5" bbl including flash hider Factory prototype for Australian No. 6 jungle carbine. Described in Ian Skennerton's book The Lee Enfield, pgs 348-351. One of only approximately 12 produced it is immediately recognizable due to its grooved forend and hand guard and it also exhibits a brass buttplate with the butt shaved thinner. A recessed hole in the bolt knob, a lightened groove in the bolt lock bar, and a narrower trigger guard with protected ear pieces for the rear sight screwed onto the rear sight base. It also has a sheet metal front sight protector and a square bayonet lug boss. Charger bridge is also lightened. It is clear that they were making every effort to lighten this rifle. Marked "XP8" on right side of receiver with all matching numbers and also marked with the usual Lithgow markings on right side of receiver and dated "1944". Right side of buttstock also marked with SN "MA / 12/44". Includes one orig web sling. PROVENANCE: From the Estate of World Renowned British Rifle Collector Robert W. Faris. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish extremely fine to near excellent, original blued finish with some loss of finish at the high points and at bayonet stud. Wood also extremely fine with numerous small dings, gouges and handling marks. Bore is extremely fine with bright shiny rifling. 51608-5 JWK (10,000-20,000)