Enfield-manufactured 1908-dated MLE

G'day folks,

I recently acquired a Long Tom cut down to Aussie range-pattern specs, with the SMLE-length barrel. It's pretty rough and ready, but it is interesting as it is 1908-dated and made at Enfield. I'm aware that BSA were making Long Lee commercials for some time after the military production ended, but I wasn't aware that RSAF Enfield were still manufacturing them so late.

A theory is that it was made as part of a contract for a reserve unit or organisation which didn't need short rifles. Possibly an undated receiver which was assembled and dated in 1908?

I don't have many pics but will take some more this weekend. It's the top rifle in the pic.

Attachment 19897

Attachment 19898

I'm interested in thoughts or ideas about this rifle.

Cheers,
Matt

Matt,

Looking at the date enlarged it may be a 3 as the bottom of the loop on the 8 does not continue and comes to an end (like a 3) slightest bit of pitting or ding in the metal etc will give the impression of an eight, had something similar on a 1907 bayonet.

G'day bigduke6,

I'd thought that initially, but looking at it 'in the flesh' from all possible angles make it look like an 8. This link to the initial discussion at Gunboards has other shots of the rifle and more closeups of the date stamp. Discussions there are interesting and I'm wondering whether anyone here can add anything.

Old Lee Enfield

Cheers,
Matt