Originally Posted by
Patrick Chadwick
In fact, interpolating from the graph shown by Ferris, the number indicates a rifle assembled around September 1918. Adding the E and stamping the number on the bolt handle suggests that the original rifle to which the bolt belonged was taken into British service. I know you say that the number on the present rifle does not match the bolt. Nevertheless, can you read the barrel date (up near the foresight). Does the rifle bear any British proof/acceptance marks?
Patrick