Can you make a 32 scope from a 42 or a 53?

[Peter Laidler]

Is/would it be possible to make a No32 from a No42 or 53? I have often pondered over the idea. Quite clearly, the internal parts could all be used, eventually!

The first thing you’d need to do was machine down the outside diameter of the tube from 1.018 to 1.00”. Next would be to decide whether you wanted a Mk1 or 2 or a Mk3. And if I was you, I’d settle for a Mk3 – and you’ll understand why in a minute. Now you’ll have to cast up the brass turret over the tube and machine it for a) correct distance between the segment cover collars and the brass turret and b) the turret for length.

Having done that, you’ll need to bore into the brass turret to accept the clicker spring, plunger and the deflection turret head. Then turn it through180 degrees to machine through for the graticle shoe, spring, threaded bush and screw. Now turn it through 90 degrees and repeat the process for the deflection mechanism. Done that........? This option is going to be a whole LOT simpler that making the same for the Mk1 or 2....., and the reason the simplified Mk3 was easier and cheaper to produce than the Mk1’s and 2’s

Now you need to insert front and rear collars into the tube to support the graticle.

Machine about an inch or so from the rear of the inner sleeve and use that as the medium to lengthen the tube to Mk3 spec.

Make up a few sets of range and deflection drum assemblies plus a few graticle blocks plus the other odds and sods such as the clicker springs and plungers.

Assemble it all up and there, lo and behold, before your very eyes, a ‘repro’ Mk3, And if you started with a No53, you’ve even got the correct ocular lens cell.

Would it be economic? I don’t think so but a brilliant question Reedy. Anyone got any other ideas? I ask because I have had a No53 with No32 graticle pattern fitted to my privately owned SA80 L98A1, mounted on a SUSAT sight base with the zeroing adjustment on the mount