April 11-13, 2023 Firearms and Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/13/2023
The P-14 was extremely well regarded rifle for World War I, but by the time that the optic was approved in 1918, the War was a scant 7 months from ending, preventing widespread use. Post-War, the British kept a number in stock but dispersed the rest to Commonwealth colonies, including approximately 75 rifles with scopes that were furnished to the Irish Free State in the 1930s, which this one was. Classic configuration of the P14 MKI W T with 3 piece stock, blade front sight protected by ears, volley sights disk present on left side of stock (actual sight missing) with a "(Crown) / J1" proof in the divot, correct British proofs on left side of receiver, aperture rear sight with flip-up adjustable ladder. Matching serial numbers observed on bolt, receiver, and scope. Barrel is marked on shank with "'17" indicating 1917 date, matching serial number, and various English proofs. BSA Model 1918 3x scope with B.S.A's triple rifle mark, mounted in rings, front with dual claws and rear with single claw, with brass objective bell, elevation knob, and focus ring. Importantly for the identification of these guns is the "FF" mark for Fianna Fail on the scope mount. Finger groove stock with semi-pistol grip, blank stock disc on right side of stock. Leather bikini scope caps and attached cloth sling. CONDITION: Overall very good as arsenal reworked for Ireland. Retains virtually all of the arsenal bluing with some silvering to high edges throughout, most noticeable on front sight protectors and claw mount release. Bluing has some minor patina coming through the bluing and some minor spotting. Stock is good with numerous handling marks and impressions throughout as befits a service rifle. Mechanically fine, bore is excellent with strong rifling and some light frosting in grooves. These Irish rifles are becoming exceptionally difficult to find and this is a very good all matching example.
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