Gentlemen: I reluctantly reopen this thread with a couple of specific questions. I certainly don't question Peter L. or JMoores conclusions that the rifle is a faked "T" but as someone trying to learn the ropes, I would like to know what specific details might have tipped me or another novice off. As pointed out at the outset, I didn't pay a lot for the rifle and the No.32 is serviceable. Needless to say I would have preferred the rifle be genuine but I don't buy these old guns as financial investments so it's no big deal. It also won't be resold as a "T" because my collection will be going to a nephew a few years down the road. So, the specific questions:
1) Is the Enfield examiners mark on the rear of the action body something found on all BSA-Shirleys of this period and not specific to H&H conversions? Please note I own and have read Peter's book and seem to be missing something.
2) Not specifically related to the "T" or not "T" question, can anyone tell me what the barrel markings indicate? Is it a BSA barrel?
3) The rifle serial number is stamped on the upper side of the butt and under the forend in what, to me, appears an atypical manner. Does this look familiar to anyone? Is it a style that was used in arsenal refits?
4) There is another number on the butt below the serial- this could, of course, be part of some bodgery but any ideas what they were trying to accomplish? Does this resemble any N0.32 scope serial numbers? Unfortunately, this number was also (recently) engraved on the poor old scope in a half-hearted effort to make it appear to be a matching set.
Thanks, in advance, to any answers to these questions.
Ridolpho