Early BSA Shirley No4 Mk1 - Bolt number on RH Wrist.

I had the opportunity to examine, but not photograph, an early 1942 BSA Shirley No4 MK1. (4 digit serial with E prefix - eg E1234)

I noted that the bolt was not marked with the serial number of the receiver.

The bolt was marked with a 4 digit serial "1049" (no prefix) and the same number was stamped on the right hand side of the wrist.

A quick search of the forums, and of my reference library, did not show whether marking the RH side of the wrist with a bolt serial number was common or not.

Is it common or is just a way of marking a replacement bolt?

Any thoughts.

Cheers

Paul

Did you check the chamber? Could it have been a DCRA conversion to 7.62mm? mine has the 4 digit DCRA number on the bolt and the wrist, then it is also on the receiver but under the wood.