More Bad Press For The Enfield

[Surpmil]

....The Enfield rifle was proof tested with an oiled cartridge and then checked with a .067 head space gauge. If the bolt closed on this .067 head space gauge the rifle failed proof testing due to excessive bolt lug and bolt head set back. (a oiled proof cartridge exerts more bolt thrust than a dry proof cartridge)

I have a little difficulty with this. Is it being claimed that every No4 rifle sent for proof had a bolt head fitted that just closed over the .064 gauge? I rather doubt it. Perhaps a feeler gauge was used with the existing bolt head and the .064 guage and if "set back" of more than .003" occured, THEN the rifle failed proof?

The Australians when testing .303 Enfield's converted to 7.62 NATO used a .303 enfield as a "control" for the 7.62 testing. The control .303 Enfield fired six .303 proof test rounds and the headspace increased by .010.

I'm afraid I'm a bit sceptical about tests like this as well. Official "tests" have a funny way of producing the result that the authorities want, or that 'interested parties' want. (I've cited a few examples elsewhere concerning Canadian-produced equipment) We've been told here by informed parties, that the Indian No1 Rifles in 7.62mm are built of the same steel that UK and Australian No1 Rifles were built of. Of course, we've also been told that 'better' steel was used, but the weight of authority lies with the former opinion if I remember the parties involved.

Water,oil or grease in the chamber or on the ammunition increases bolt thrust and the wear and tear or serviceability of your Enfiel rifle. The issued Enfield Rifles were inspected four times per year, three mini-visual inspections and one complete tear down inspection.

We know the Armourers replaced bolt heads and bolt bodies during these inspections and dry firing doesn't cause excess bolt thrust.

If shooting and bolt thrust causes increased head space, then oil or water on your ammunition or in your chamber and the added bolt thrust isn't going to make your Enfield last longer.

Perhaps it's not your intention to suggest that bolthead and bodies were replaced on a regular, or even annual basis, but that's how it reads to me. Just thought I'd mention that.