Common issue points to look for when assessing a purchase No4s (at least)

[Ridolpho]

ssj: I'm far from an expert but in the couple of dozen Lee Enfields I've owned I've had more issues with wood than metal. Probably one in three that I've purchased have had issues requiring serious repair prior to shooting. The worst was a 20's commercial BSA No. 1 that the previous owner had shot a lot. When I removed the forend the draws portion of the forend literally poured out. With this one, simply loosening the front triggerguard screw would have revealed the problem. If you're looking at buying a high priced rifle that you wish to shoot it shouldn't really shock a seller to be asked to pull off the forend for a look-see. They'll grumble even though we all know it is a 5 minute job. I'm tempted to have all the appropriate screw drivers in my pocket. For a rare, highly collectable variation this, obviously, is not an issue.

Ridolpho

[ssj]

Hi, Thanks...Good idea on losening the main screw. Wood though is easy for me to repair, draws tricky, yes. The real problems are worn metalwork, they are getting old and Ive seen so many shagged guns and especially barrels now. I agree on looking but there is very little local so Im stuck buying off auctions which there are 3 a year or via internet auction, only 1 here of any meaningful size.