Image shown from the Knowledge Libraryicon for illustrative purposed and is not the exact rifle I am describing



On Saturday I paid a visit to small town gun shop near my home and was surprised to spot a MLE on the rack. I was offered a look over of the rifle and from my very limited exposure to these rifles, it appeared nearly complete.

Overall the rifle has all of the major components in place, full stock and barrel, and still has the magazine chain, magazine cutoff, and dust cover on the bolt. However the volley sight is missing the rear aperture portion. The finish is mostly gone with some evidence of dry "powder" rust in the nooks of the cocking piece and safety. I am unsure if someone did a clean up and missed those little crevices or if the rifle wasn't cleaned properly on storage, but it doesn't show evidence of recent use. No oil on the action or residue from firing.

I did not examine the bore as I did not want to risk the possibility of damaging something on a rifle I did not intend to purchase.

Thinking back a few years ago a couple of firearms dealers in Canadaicon were selling MLE's that they came across in varying condition, it is possible that this rifle is one of those recent sales, or it could be from a collection, I can't say.

The wrist was marked with 1896 as well as a couple other typical markings. I was informed the rifle is there on consignment and the asking price is $1500 (CDN). The store owner told me lots of people look at it and refuse to even consider the price. I would consider an offer but have that funding loosely earmarked for a Ross, and I personally think the asking price is a high, but could be out of my element on that assessment. I do not know the market values on any Pre-WWI Lee-Enfield's in Canada, I just do not encounter them.

If anyone is seriously interested purchasing in a rifle like this, let me know an I will forward the store location and contact along (Alberta, Canada), and if you would like photos, I could stop in and take some. That said, I have no affiliation with the seller or store, but as I am on the hunt for a couple of uncommon rifles myself, someone may appreciate the lead on an MLE such as this.
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