Lee enfield accuracy question

[AradoAR234]

Although this should probably belong in the LE forum, I thought it too broad to post it there. After reading an Article by a fellow named Marc Gorelick of the Virginia Gun Collectors Assosciation, about the P14/M17 Enfield ( A short history Etc...), I thought I may leave it open for discussion for who ever is interested. It is full of comments regarding the superiority of the P14 over the SMLE ( ie "accounted a better battle rifle" ) and "it was ( the P14) found to be more accurate and reliable than the SMLE sniper rifles". It also stated by 1917 that the SMLE was not accurate enough "even with a telescopic sight".

Any one care to comment?

I was under the impression that the SMLE and Mk VII .303 cartridge pretty well proved itself as THE bolt action combat rifle of the 20th century, in the mud of Flanders and the sands of Libya. But as a sniper rifle??? The commonwealth service rifle clubs put up some very impressive scores with the SMLE at 1000 yds prior to WW1, so I'm wondering if any of you historians out there could enlighten me as to why it would be deemed "not accurate enough", cheers

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.