Hello all, I have a No.5 I've done basically enough research on to authenticate. I was wondering, what years were these in production? It seems nearly all I stumble across are dated 1945. Thanks.
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Hello all, I have a No.5 I've done basically enough research on to authenticate. I was wondering, what years were these in production? It seems nearly all I stumble across are dated 1945. Thanks.
Tried to go back and edit my post but it was too late. To clarify, the ones I encounter are 1945 and later though mine is dated August 1944 which dispelled my belief that production began in '45. I was wondering when production did indeed begin on these. Thanks again.
The first order for lightened no 4 rifles was placed with Fazakerley in 1943 1,000 were produced. The first production batch of No 5 rifles have an FE serial number prefix with manufacture dates of 2/44 and 3/44.
Both of my examples are dated 1947 (9/47 and 10/47)
Mine is a Shirley S/N BB4063 production date 1945
1943 - 1947 although not fully approved untill Sept 44. ROF Fazakerley made most of them (approx 170,000) although BSA Shirley also made around 81,000. No5 Mk1 Declared obsolete in July 47 but made by Fazakerley untill December 47. Was only ever produced as a Mk1 although a No5 Mk2 was trialed but abandoned in December 47.
Reference: Skennerton's book 2007 pages 241 - 248.
Thanks for the info. Here's a pic of the markings on the side of the receiver. Attachment 37932
It's the only one I've ever owned and I purchased it from a vet who claims to have brought it home with him. His son said that it had been in the attic since he was a small kid. He said it was the only gun small enough for him to handle so he used to mess with it a lot. It had what I would estimate to be about 65 years worth of cobwebs an dirt in it when I got it! Cheers gents and thanks for the info.
The reference that I have, North Cape's British Enfield Rifles, Vol.2, says that production started in 1944 (@ Fazakerly & BSA) & ended in 1947. HTH.
donzi
I had one of the first batch of 1000 and it was 2/44.
Don't be a tease. More pictures please.Quote:
Originally Posted by nhetzer