GUN SPRING 2017
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/11/2017
EARLY PRE-PRODUCTION TOOL ROOM PROTOTYPE TRIALS BRITISH R.S.A.F. ENFIELD .303 SMLE NO. 4 MK I RIFLE.BRITISHSMLE NO. 4 MK IEX97303MODERN; C&RCal. .303. British. 25.2" dated "29". This rifle is described in Ian Skennerton's reference book The Lee Enfield, pg 213. British nitro proofs and marked on left side of receiver "LT2" with "AO350" stamped to underside of forend wood. This pre-production trials No. 4 rifle has a high slab sided receiver at left with a tapered cut out for thumb clearance when charger loading. The bbl has been bedded for shooting tests, AND the magazine cut off slot is half-size. Magazine floorplate is stamped "VI". Formerly in the Kenyan Royal Military Academy Museum, the museum catalog number "O33" on the base of the butt. PROVENANCE: From the Estate of World Renowned British Rifle Collector Robert W. Faris. CONDITION: Overall appearance and finish near excellent. Orig blued finish turning to brown patina right at the muzzle. Bore is near excellent, shiny and bright. Wood is extremely fine to near excellent with numerous small dings, bruises and handling marks. An important specimen in the evolution of British rifle development. 51608-15 JWK (6,000-12,000)