long branch sniper ?

[Roger Payne]

Of course more & clearer photo's would be nice, when you get the rifle. I have looked at the comments evolving about this piece with interest. It's only my HO but I have restored several butchered LB 4T's over the years (still have two of 'em), & the rather variable finish under the pad, together with a lack of the 'window' milling seen on UK rifles, is absolutely typical.

I would entirely agree with Simon (with no disrespect intended to anyone of a different opinion) that the serial is indeed entirely stamped, though I would admit that the '71L' looks rather deeper than the rest of the number. This may be the case - the numbers were hand stamped - or it could be an effect of the angle of the photo/lighting etc.

We can't see the remaining rear pad at all well, but of what we can see the edges are very well demarcated & do not look like it was put there yesterday.

If someone faked it they would surely have mentioned it being a sniper in the description - or maybe it has changed hands a few times down the line.......but I don't think it's fake. I wonder if the sling has always been with it?

Be aware though, that there are some subtle differences between UK & LB front pads, let alone the various repro pieces on offer, some of which are frankly atrocious. If you need any help or advice when you get round to the restoration process please do let me know. I may even have a spare Canadian cheekpiece somewhere (I have seen three different variations in shape of these, to date).

ATB