No4 Mk2 serial number question

[Reflex_84]

Hello all. My father is interested in purchasing a No4mk2 made in '55. The serial numbers on the stock, receiver, and stock all match with the typical UF 55 A1**** numbering. The bolt on the other hand has an odd number stamped to it. S239***A. Was it normal for the bolt to be stamped this way? The claim on this rifle was that it was purchased all wrapped up and full of grease. Also claimd to be unfired. I havent personally seen the rifle, only pictures. It looks like new amd in a beechwood stock.

Any help is appreciated. Thanks

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[Peter Laidler]

If the rifle is genuine and original then the bolt number WILL match the rifle serial number. Your rifle ain't original - or at least it is, - but not factory fresh type original!

[Seaspriter]

Odd number stamped to it. S239***A.

If the rifle is genuine and original then the bolt number WILL match the rifle serial number.

What's really odd is the #S239***A isn't normal to any other No.4 rifle, but might be from an October 1945 Fazakerley No.5 carbine (Although the amount of digits and the "A" at the end of the serial number is non-conforming.) Something is amiss. The UF series unfired are worth a premium, but only if in completely original, authentic condition. If not in original condition, it is just an ordinary very good condition MkII. Caveat Emptor. The gun will never be a strong candidate for resale. I'd walk away.

[Peter Laidler]

A letter A suffix indicates to Armourers that it is a rifle that has non interchangeable parts and will require a degree of hand or selective fitting.

Next question.......

But as an aside, if you get the bolt fitted CORRECTLY by someone who knows what he's doing in the fitting up of the bolt and fitting it to the rifle and renumbering it to match, then that's something else. We used to do it day in and day out!

[Surpmil]

Has the seller simply mixed up the bolts by putting them all in the same box or drawer? If not, someone has lost the bolt, and the plot and value has just fallen through the floor.

People often hide bolts away and then kick off without telling anyone where they hid them. This may be what happened here, but since these rifles haven't been on the market for a great many years, it could be the bolt is still to be found.

Unless some dimwit sold another rifle with this rifle's bolt in it.

The correct bolt for this rifle will have a full round knob with no flat and no hole.

Good luck.