Lee Speed from BSA and I need info

[mtbikerwvu]

I know this rifle does not fit the precise definition of, "military surplus" but I thought I might try and draw some information about this rifle from a knowledgeable group.

The rifle is one I picked up in trade and for some reason it spoke to me as Lee pattern rifles often do. This is what I have been able to gather, a Lee Speed No.1 Pattern Sporting Rifle. Everything seems to be intact and well used but not abused. The rifle came out of a collection of African rifles collected by a fella in California who has passed. What else I know is limited, the 5 round magazine seems weak and barely feeds rounds but it will with some coaxing. The spring is a very simple c shaped spring and is not the typical v shape folded type spring. Other than a very old magazine that needs an overhaul the rest of the gun seems ok. It chambers and extracts fine and headspace seems to check out.

I have not removed the stock yet to observe coditions under the wood line and to look for marks and or dates but above the wood line there are the normal plethora of British proofs and numbers which seem different than most military proofs. So, please help with information and pointers, possible dates of manufacture and even what generation of .303 ammo is correct for use in the rifle. I was told Mk VII would be ok but will handload way down on this one to start with. Thanks!

Oh yeah, feel free to migrate or delete this thread if it violates rules or definition guidelines.

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