No4 MkI* 1945 Long Branch

Featured on this page is an all matching Long Branch manufactured No4 MkI*. The rifles serial number indicates a late 1945 completion which could explain the rifles excellent condition. From the stampings found on the piece it would appear the rifle was delivered to the Canadian Army and subsequently stored without issue until it was sold out of service. The consistent patina, metal finish and virgin screw heads suggest the rifle has been little tampered with and most likely has had few owners. When the rifle came into my hands it still had the felt washer covering the buttsocket screw with no sign of ever having been removed and the butt trap contained a period correct oil bottle, pull through and wire gauze.

Evidence also point to the fact that this rifle may have been used for Service Rifle competitions, mainly the Parker-Hale target sling swivel and a reduced aperture insert in the rear sight. Upon removing the fore-end the receiver bedding show textbook bearing points as indicated by the wood crush fit. When testing the forward triggerguard screw bushing, the number of thread turns with bushing versus no bushing is exactly equal indicating a properly sized bushing and spot on bedding. With the exception of one significant gouge in the fore-end, the stock shows indications of having been bench rested quite a bit. The rifle is an interesting bit of history.