Bren modifications ....

Just a few updates while I have had the opportunity. First is one of the late 70’s modifications for the L4 series of Bren. Often mentioned but rarely seen Quite simple and devised to allow the use of the better GPMG sling ‘over-the-shoulder’ fashion. The REME Advisory group allowed this modification to be carried across the board to ‘.....other Bren and L54 and 55 guns in restricted service (Cadet and training units?) in order to standardise training and equipment across the board. Doesn’t need any further explanation.

Shown fitted to a DP L54 hybrid Bren. Photos need no explanation

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Added a bit later....... Just discovered why the Mk2 bolt was originally threaded into a steel plate. Being thinner than a nut, a nut and lock washer will/could prevent the operation of the ej opening cover.


The enigmatic Bren front grip modification. Taken from an old and faded/almost illegible mimeographed part of the Far East Land Forces fitting instructions. The grip was available from local Ordnance stocks in Malaya and fitted locally according to operational need according to local instructions.

This grip is home-made, scaled up from the faded mimeographed fitting instruction. It’s as accurate as possible to make, home made, made on the bench from the drawing. Note also that the fitting bolt is a standard Mk2 pistol grip screw fitted centrally (?) through the trough ahead of the ejection opening slot. The original shows a short, snug fitting steel plate instead of the simpler nut – but that is a matter for you! Note also the little anti rotation peg, a MUST.

Now, if this so-said ‘new locally made grip’ isn’t simply a slightly modified Mk2 grip, cut short across the inner step, then I’m a piccolo player!

Other pictures show other variations on this same theme using a carrying handle and even an Owen grip. BUT be rest assured, unless it was secure and vibration proof, it WILL work loose with dire results. Just take it from me..... And this approved grip was designed so as to not interfere with any other operation of the gun or bipod and that would include putting it on the tripod (although I don’t ever recall seeing a tripod in Malaya!!!!!)

When modified guns were returned to Ordnance the hole (I think they mean holes) was/were to be welded over and made good. I was told recently that this modification was approved for use in Cyprus during the 60’s EOKA ‘troubles’. Funny how Britain always encounters ‘troubles...’!

The photos really need no explanation beyond the obvious........

(Click PICs to Enlarge)

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Added a bit later...... Just realised why as originally formulated, the Mk2 bolt threaded into a steel plate set into the trough. 1) probably to spread the load and 2) a nut and lock washer would/might interfere with the operation of the eject opening cover.

As a matter of interest, firing a Bren from the waist is probably the best thing you can do with your trousers on. I was range testing one one day with some civilian rifle shooters were waiting to use the range next. Well, it was a nice day and we really didn't want to take the excess ammo back. So when I went and booked off the range I'm lead to understand that Sgt Roger xxxxx allowed them to shoot the gun under what he called '....strictly controlled conditions.....' But it did sound awfully like auto fire and sooooooo noisy too. Can't do that sort of thing now.