1925 Sht LE Marking Question

I recently acquired a 1925 RFI manufactured No 1 and there is a marking on the barrel knox with the letters P.R just beside the GRI proof mark.

There is some rust on the barrel flat and what looks like a "*" next to the rust. The * could be acknowledging that rust spot. Any idea on the P.R stamping?

Any help would be appreciated. FYI, first post.

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Originally Posted by xpert16

I recently acquired a 1925 RFI manufactured No 1 and there is a marking on the barrel knox with the letters P.R just beside the GRI proof mark.

There is some rust on the barrel flat and what looks like a "*" next to the rust. The * could be acknowledging that rust spot. Any idea on the P.R stamping?

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Xpert,

Would you be able to provide a photo of the initial mark near the proof, as there may be a couple of possible explanations if we can see them properly? Better to see what you're seeing rather than guess.

You're spot on with the asterisk, it does mean damage/rust/pitting in chamber/barrel, usually very close to mark.

Attachment 86278

This photo shows the rust spot in question and the unidentified stamp. The rust is on top of the barrel and the * is to the top of the rust area.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by xpert16

Attachment 86278

This photo shows the rust spot in question and the unidentified stamp. The rust is on top of the barrel and the * is to the top of the rust area.

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xpert,

From what I can make out in the confusing (incomplete) list of markings for the Commonwealth service rifles, "P" usually indicates a replacement barrel on the rifle. "R" can mean replacement, and if stamped in a cursive script "R" then it's usually an indication that the Armourer found the barrel to be rusty and requiring inspection. The rust pitting you have shown in your photo is under the rear handguard and surprisingly easy to get at and clean/treat. Usually the asterisk means internal (structurally significant) corrosion to the chamber, throat or bore.

So, I'd hazard a guess that the PR means the Armourer inspecting recognised a replacement barrel that was rusted to a degree causing concern over its serviceability.

It is a little confusing. What I am calling an asterick in that rust area is not well defined and could actually be a small round rust pit and not an asterick. After a thorough cleaning, I don't see any rust in the bore area. Not certain about the chamber area.

I also can't find a date on the barrel. My other No 1 (1917) has a replacement barrel, no P but a date stamped something like '38 beside a broad arrow.

Thanks for your feedback.

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Originally Posted by xpert16

It is a little confusing.

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Mate, welcome to the world of Commonwealth Service Rifles...! :thup:

You don't have to be mad to be caught up in them, but it sure helps!