Ishapore 2A1 headspace gauge/ Measurement

[Peter Laidler]

Let me ask a pertinent question that noone has asked yet. Given all of the trials, tests and experiments carried out at Enfield and for over 45 years - so far - with the L8 CHS, the L39 CHS and the L42 CHS then specifying that the L96 must have the same CHS specification. Then, the Sterling No4 and 5 conversions............ both of which stuck rigidly to the tried and tested specification, can any out there tell me why would the Indian ROF converting the No1 rifles would opt for anything different................... especially when the important maths, physics and metallurgy has already been done for them?

Come on lads..............! If 1.6238 go and 1.635 no-go is good enough for pretty well every other (and certainly every other Enfield.....) bolt action rifle using 7.62mm NATO ball, why would India seriously change it to anything else.

In my limited experience, and not knowing the definitive answer, then take it from me, that if these are the known spec for everything else, then it'd be a pretty safe bet that this is the spec for that other solitary bolt action 7.62mm Enfield using NATO ball.

Now come a bit closer and listen in because I don't want everyone else to know about this opinion I have........... It's about that hoary old chestnut that ALL or certainly MOST of the Indian 7.62mm SMLE's have a greater NO-GO CHS. Could it possibly be that they have already failed the REJECT 1.635 gauge at Indian Armourers shops and Ordnance and it's these rifles that they've sold off.

As an experienced rule of thumb you should take it that the CHS for this bolt action 7.62mm NATO rifle is the same as the rest of the 7.62mm bolt action rifles. No excuses now. But I'd appreciate any alternative views - but make sure that you've got your books handy!