Many years ago I bought this rifle for $90.00. I fired it with commercial ammo with no problems but noticed the shoulder profile on the case had changed considerably looking almost like an "improved version" of the .303. I know little of this rifle type although I am an accomplished shooter and reloader and stopped shooting it with the intentions of finding out why the shoulder change but never got around to it till now some 15 years later. I would value your opinions as to what I have here and is it safe to fire.
Right side muzzle marked as follows:
CAI (or an l, or a 1) ST. A. VI. (or an l, or a 1)
303B UK
Left side receiver marked as follows:
FTR 1954 No. 4 Mk 1 / ' 2
The steel band around the grip is marked 1954 as well with an arrow pointing down just above the date.
There are several markings on the stock as well:
An underlined HTC or 4TC can't tell.
1954
An 80 (split by an arrow shaft) GE as best I can tell.
A W over a 6 or a 9 over an M depending on muzzle up or but up.
A 38 (split by an arrow shaft) G5 as best I can tell.
The receiver, bolt and stock serial numbers all match.
Any information will be greatly apppreciated.
John
