"Unissued" (not JJCO) Lithgow

[Homer]

Just checked on this in Skennertons Small Arms series on Australian Lee Enfields and he claims they were original fitment during certain time periods. Can find the precise quote if need be.

Ridolpho

Definitely. The problem became apparent very early on whilst Queensland maple was being used. Its a bit of a grey area but what Ive come to understand from skennertons books and examination of my own rifles is, the first attempts to reinforce the draw area was in the late 20's when walnut inserts were used. Then early to mid thirties, steel pins attached to the stock bolt plate were used. Both methods were shortlived but keep in mind, rifle production was very low during this period so examples are scarce. After this they adopted the copper plates but I'm not sure exactly when because all my late 30's actions were assembled into rifles in 1939/40 leaving a bit of a black hole in my research. I'd say late thirties but definitely by 1940 and they remained in production throughout except for a one year period approximately from sometime in 1943.