Australian rifle help ...

Hello everyone...

I've had this licensed rifle in my possession for many years unfortunately do not know its history. I have attached some images and I would appreciate any comments to better identify this rifle and what the markings mean ...

Butt with HV 1943 and other markings.
Attachment 50768

Stamped on the action is H4446 and on the underside of the bolt is stamped the same No.
Attachment 50766

Shows rifle No also stamped on the back of the bolt. On removing the top wood work the barrel is stamped with a large H
Attachment 50769

Other Pics...
Attachment 50767Attachment 50770Attachment 50771

Thank you.


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It is a 1942 Lee Enfield No1 Mk3* manufactured in Australia by 'Lithgow'

It has been sporterised with the removal of the rear sight and the drilling and tapping of the top of the action - it also appears to have part of a 'civilian' target sight / bracket on the rear of the left hand side of the action.

The H is probabkly for a 'heavy barrel' which were installed by some of the shooting clubs. There will be a few Aussies who can give you chapter and verse on the Club modifications.

This looks to be an old 'range' rifle. Judging by the old central sight and the heavy barrel ( can see it as well as the H ). Appears to have had a scope on it at some time too.

Made in Lithgow NSW Australia in 1942, probably assembled in 43 if the butt hasn't been swapped out ... and at some time made it's way into civvie hands and a club shooter. The H4446 is an identifying number before the actual serial number (D6023) is allocated. If the barrel isn't shagged it will probably be quite accurate.

That's what I can get from the pics. The real experts will be along soon :)