1942 Long branch barrel.

Hi to all,
I'm looking for some advice please. I have recently bought my second LB rifle. It is a 1942 PD serial number model. It was supposed to be an unfired model (I know, the joke is on me). It is in very good condition but it has savage woodwork, trigger/guard and a new barrel. The barrel itself is grey in colour (my other rifle is deep black) and has a slightly rough finish. I noticed yesterday that the front sight has been forced on as it seems the lugs may be oversize???? Plus there is no locating pin groove. More importantly, the barrel came loose in my hand!
Is it ok for me to screw this back up as is, or does it need shimming etc by a gunsmith?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.....

One deflated member :-(

It needs to be properly installed, and that's not just screwing it tight. I'd return it for full refund if possible. Too much there to pay good money and get what you have.

Thanks Jim,
I thought it may not be as simple as tightening the barrel. Unfortunately, I don't think I will be able to return the rifle that easily......

where abouts in nsw are you, there are various people about who know lee enfields.

It is important as henryr says there are gunsmiths out there you just have to get the right one, get on the web and have a look then ring them also have a talk to the gunshop you got it off as they would have had to have done a serviceability certificate in the transfer and if they have certified it then what did they check, they should foot the bill for the repair, hope things work out for you..

Thanks guys, I really appreciate the help and advice. I have spoken to a local gun dealer (Central West NSW) who has put me in touch with a gunsmith who will help me refit the barrel. Thanks CINDERS too for the advice about the serviceability certificate. I knew nothing about this previously.

This is a form that has to be filled out by the gunsmith on a weapon and sent to the firearms branch along with the application you may want to check your state regulations as I cannot vouch what happens in NSW only W.A where it is getting increasingly harder and more expensive to acquire a firearm. We are at $178.00 AU for an application/addition in W.A