What's wrong with my Ishapore?

[Brian Dick]

Another small correction is that there is no selection of bolt head lengths to correct headspace issues on the SMLE. Only the No.4 had a variety of sizes and once fitted the first time, the measurements are all over the place so the only way to know is to physically measure them and disregard the number stamped on. The only way to correct headspace on an SMLE is to get a long bolt head and stone it down on a piece of plate glass until it's in spec with the HS gauges. Having had more than my fair share of the RFI 2A and 2A1 rifles through here, my first suspicion when headspace is out of specification is that the thin hardening in the body is worn through and the bolt locking lugs are setting back.