No.4 Mk.I(T) mfg.1944 with Scope No.32 Mk.I mfg. 1941/2: An odd pairing!

[Lance]

The rifle is legit as the "A" series s/n in 1944; in 1945 they started with the "R" and "S" s/n blocks. The electropencil s/n is correct for '43-44 BSA rifles (see pic's below) and due to their light engraving, many were re-stamped later. The electropencil s/n on the upper sidewall I have on my '45 BSA's and possibly they are there on later '44's too. Since the butt is factory H&H and the scope can is matching I would put up two possible scenario's.

One. The original rifle was damaged and a unfinished left over H&H converted rifle was chosen to be mated with the early Watson scope as the scope mount is a later production example and the scope pads are staked.

Two. Due to the original "T" stamp on the receiver the scope was returned to H&H during early 1944 where it was added into the system again and issued a new mount. Why send it back to H&H?? No idea, remember they had the '44 dated Watson Mk I's they still sent out from the factory so re-issuing a '42 is not impossible.

The history of this rifle is very interesting, thanks for sharing. I am envious as I "need" a '42 dated Watson for my collection with matching rifle. So if you tire of her let me know!!