I think I have been had...

I was at a gun show this weekend and purchased my first SMLE (1918 BSA) that looked to be in very good condition. As I look a bit more, I begin to wonder. There are no marks at all on the stock which makes me think it was replaced and I have not been able to find any of the stamps regarding a pressure test. Also, it shows "FFD 44" on the receiver but also has an "FFD DP" on the rear sight. I am not concerned about the FFD44 but should I be concerned about the FFD DP stamped on the rear sight?

Thanks

Welcome to the site ... :cheers:

http://photos.imageevent.com/badgerd...ithoutpics.gif

To learn more about about how to handle pics, please read this thread in the Q&A - Help Forums, which also appears as a "sticky" thread at the top of every forum on the site.

How do I upload pictures to my posts for storage on milsurps.com? (click here)

If you still have problems, email them to me at badger@milsurps.com and I'll resize them for you, then post them in the thread under your name

Regards,
Doug

I was able to see a bit more today. The only place on the rifle with DP is on the rear sight. The second picture is the one that concerns me. I also noticed that the serial numbers match and even the struck out serial numbers match, even though as I understand it, a P on the barrel indicates a replacement at some point. Any help is appreciated.
Attachment 51082Attachment 51084Attachment 51085Attachment 51086Attachment 51087

Look to be "Enfield" inspector stamp markings.

EnFielD = EFD

What is under the EFD is from a particular stamp / inspector usually numeric, alpha or alpha/numeric.

I would not be concerned that it is a "DP" under the EFD

Did you get a chance to check the example in the MKL to compare markings against the 137 pic photo montage of the rifle displayed there?

1917 ShtLE (Short Lee-Enfield) No.1 MkIII*

Regards,
Doug

I've never seen DP stamped on the rear sight spring before. If stamped on the rear sight leaf, it's usually at the top above the pin hole if that makes any sense.

These pics don't really show it, but there is also another FFD but with what I think is a 4E under it on the other piece of the rear sight (right at the bottom above the hinge).

Looks like a good rifle, I don't see any particular red flags that would be of concern to me. If you paid a fair price, then I think you are okay. What did your qualified gunsmith have to say about it?

You can be rest assured that the DP mark on that backsight isn't Drill Purpose, believe me! When we did it......., and I've done a few, they were xxxxing great BIG stamps followed by xxxxing big white bands!

Saw a training video of Gurkha recruits in the Indian Army (5th and 8th Gurkha rifles) with DP marked INSAS rifles. White bands on handguards and butts

Thanks everyone. I think I was a bit nervous as I suspect that the stock was refinished that could have hid the markings there. As it is, I shall have it checked out thoroughly prior to firing. I am ok either way as it is the centerpiece for a memorium if you will of family members that served in the British Armed Forces (Father, Grandfathers, Great Uncles), some of which did not make it back. It would be nice if it fires (safely!), but that is secondary to the real purpose.

Looks like a great piece of history and the multitude of inspectors stamps are nothing to be unduly concerned about, as long as rounds come out the barrel...........Enjoy it!
I am assuming you have had a good look at the barrel wear when you considered buying it?
Value your side of the pond somewhere in the $350-$450 for a good rifle, was it anywhere around that?

Barrel is in good shape with very distinct grooving (especially after a good cleaning) and no visible rust or pitting. Got it for $275 at a gunshow.