(C+A) LOT OF 2: ENFIELD SMLE III AND ST. ETIENNE MLE 1892 BERTHIER BOLT ACTION RIFLES.

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/15/2022

Lot consists of (A) SHTLE No. I MK III* bolt action rifle manufactured at the Enfield arsenal in 1913. Right side of receiver bears a "(Crown) / GR" stamp above markings stipulating the manufacturer, year of manufacture, and the serial number. Metal components are blued; buttplate and stock disc are comprised of brass. Furniture is comprised of solid wood. Rifle is accompanied by a period non-military issue leather sling and a contemporary canvas receiver cover. CONDITION: Metal components retain the majority of their arsenal blued finish, exhibiting mild surface oxidation and some minor surface pitting overall. Brass components have been cleaned. Very good bore, exhibiting strong rifling throughout. Wood furniture shows some scattered handling marks and a few arsenal repairs but is otherwise fine. (B) Model 1892 Berthier carbine manufactured at the St. Etienne arsenal in 1893. Left side of receiver bears the manufacturer and model, with the right side of the barrel exhibiting the date of manufacture. Metal components exhibit (likely arsenal) reapplied blue finish, with the stock being comprised of solid wood. Matching numbers are present on the barrel shank, bolt handle, as well as the buttstock. Carbine is accompanied by a French 1892 "Modified" bayonet with scabbard. CONDITION: Metal components retain large amounts of their period reapplied blue finish, exhibiting some areas of thinning showing through to brown patina. Bolt exhibits areas of age-related discoloration. Bright bore, exhibiting strong rifling throughout. Stock has been period resanded and revarnished, exhibiting dings, marks, and impressions, but otherwise is sturdy and serviceable. Bayonet is very good overall. From the Personal Collection of Esteemed Firearms Researcher and Collector Edwin F. Libby.

Name

Value

Accessories

(B) Bayonet

Barrel Length

(A) 25" (B) 18"

Caliber/Bore

(A) .303 Brit (B) 8x50mmR

FFL Status

Curio & Relic

Manufacturer

(A) Enfield (B) St. Etienne