Why does my gun exist?

[happydude]

I recently purchased an 'Irish Contract' rifle knowing full well that it wasn't part of the Irish Contract series of rifles (says the interweb anyway). It's a Lee Enfield No. 4 Mk. II, marked as UF 55 A 5679, all matching, in a lovely set of blonde beech with a white canvas sling.

My question to those with more knowledge and/or the right resource book, why was my rifle ever made? By 55 Enfields were dated and I can imagine there were more then enough floating around from war stocks. I'm assuming my rifle was destined for another country but never sent or something to that effect.

Just noticed at the end of the barrel by the bayonet lug, it says "CAI ST ALB VT 303 UK"

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