Question on a 1908 BSA SMLE...

[Mohawk]

I have an aquaintence who showed me a very curious SMLE that was made by BSA in 1908. The firearm seems to be in fine shape. The only drawback is the stock has been hacked of. No metal has been altered. The rear sight is quite curious to me, as there are 2 small reddish bakalite buttons to change elevation, instead of the normal thumb wheel configuration. The barrel s/n matches, along with the bolt.
My question is, Is the Rear Sight Correct? How hard would it be to find a new forearm/handguard? and is it worth the $125 he is asking? I have had WW1 SMLE's in the past, but have never seen one quite as old...Any advice would be greattly appreciated. Your help could determine if it winds up in my collection....

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[Bear43]

What are the markings on the wrist on the right side? That rear sight sounds more like the Mk I style with the bone inserts on the elevation adjustment. Some pictures would be great too. The wood isn't too hard to find, although the Mk III* wood is the most easily found at a low price. Pretty much any high-powered rifle is worth $125, if it's shootable in it's current form then I wouldn't hesitate to pay that so long as the bore is in good shape.

[mdrim13]

Those buttons on the side of the sights for the elevation are actually made of cape buffalo horn that usually has a pattern to add some grip. As for the wood it is definitly not impossible to find by any means, it would just be the uestion of getting the wood to match. The $125 is an excellent price for a gun like that as well as the bore and metal are good. They are extremely well built and made to last. Personally I have a 1907 BSA so I know where your coming from. Good luck to you and please post some pictures.

mdrim13

[RCS]

This is from a Mark 1*** Enfield 1906, is your rear sight like this one ?

[Mohawk]

Yes. The rear sight looks like that. The Buttons do not have any texture. They are smooth. I called the Gentleman back and will be picking the piece up on Jan 15th. I like a good resto project and this one is in great shape, minus the chopped stock. I will def. post pics when it is in my hands. Thanks to all for the advise. It is appreciated....