No.1 Mk 3 - last year of manufacture

Just bought a No.1 Mk3 in decent condition. it seems about as nice as any Ishapore that I've seen (though perfect fit and finish wasn't necessarily their thing). What made it interesting for me, and why I bought it was the year of manufacture...... 1986 :move eek:

It is definitely a No.1 Mk3 in .303 British not the 2A or 2A1. I have those made in the mid 1960's. Seems a bit odd that they would still be making the old .303 rifles at that point in time, unless they a) still had to use up a buttload of ammo or b) were involved in the whole Charlie Wilson / arms to the Mujahadeen shenanigans.

Has anyone seen later dates or have any insight into why they were still making 'em new??

There is discussion over on Gunboards.com forum, with good pictures, of No. 1's with dates as late as 1988. There doesn't seem to be much published about the Ishapores. I'm guessing they may be Indian Police/game wardens/prison guard issue.

1988, Wow! I assumed it was circa 1965 "ish".

I guess Ishapore kept the plant and made top up batches as required.

Pictures please