Understanding the buttsocket markings of the Lee-Enfield

The simplest way to identify any particular (government contracted) Lee-Enfield up to the No1 MkVI is by its buttsocket markings. Depending on the type of rifle it will either be on the left or most commonly the right side of the buttsocket (under the bolt knob). These stampings will tell the observer:

1. 1) who was the reigning monarch of the UK during the manufacturing process,
2. 2) which arms factory manufactured the rifle,
3. 3) what year the rifle was manufactured,
4. 4) what Number (type or model) of rifle it is and
5. 5) what Mark (level of modification) it is.

Rifles manufactured outside of a government contract for commercial sale will not have this type of marking on the buttsocket and most likely will only have the factory’s name stamped in its place, such as BSA Co.

Military markings found a No1 MkIII*

Simplistic manufactures mark found on a commercial (“for the trade”) Birmingham Small Arms Company rifle.

Sample buttsocket markings (typical).

Magazine Lee-Metfords

Magazine Lee-Enfield Mark II

Magazine Lee-Enfield Mark II*

Magazine Lee-Enfield Mark I*

Magazine Lee-Enfield Mark I

Short Magazine Lee-Enfields

Royal Small Arms Factory Enfield

Birmingham Small Arms Company

London Small Arms

Royal Small Arms Factory Sparkbrook

Standard Small Arms Company