Naval SMLE Help

I am trying to document my Naval SMLE's, can someone help interpret stamped on the barrel, left side:

P.N. 3 12.09

I assume it is either Plymouth or Portsmouth, Naval yard 3, December 1909?

Thanks!!

Hi Lance,I have it recorded in my notes as Plymouth Naval Workshop number 3. But I can't remember where I referenced that from. And yes that would be December 1909.

Many thanks, I have been turning the internet upside down but have not been able to find out anything about Naval small arms, for some reason everyone likes battleships!

I have a BRITISH ROYAL MARINE ISSUED M10, MKIII ROSS RIFLE. with the letters “PLY” stamped on the barrel knox representing the Royal Marine Naval yard Depot in Plymouth, England. And the letters “CRB”, stamped on the bolt handle representing the Crombie Royal Marine Depot. So they were in the business of servicing Ross rifles also

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Lance

I assume it is either Plymouth or Portsmouth, Naval yard 3, December 1909?

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Why not "P.N. 3 12.09" = "Royal Navy 3rd December 1909"? Perhaps the "P" is a miss struck "R"?

If so. how do you know that it wasn't from Chatham Naval base or another closed naval base or shore establishment or from a ship?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Flying10uk

Why not "P.N. 3 12.09" = "Royal Navy 3rd December 1909"? Perhaps the "P" is a miss struck "R"?

If so. how do you know that it wasn't from Chatham Naval base or another closed naval base or shore establishment or from a ship?

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Definitely "P.N." as I have two rifles marked this way. Unfortunately, there is next to no information that I can find on Navy small arms repair.

You could try contacting the Royal Armouries, Leeds and asking if they have any information.

Or the Royal Naval Museum.

Thanks, have dropped both a note. Hopefully, they have some there that is bored and wants to do some digging!