Well used No. 4 T

[browningautorifle]

I know this isn't what you're talking about, but I'd put the original barrel back and have it that way. In years to come guns like this shouldn't have to bear an explanation to the buyer. They should be able to speak for themselves...yes, it shoots. But they didn't come with 2 groove BBls...

[Ridolpho]

BAR: I agree and might do that (if I run into anyone here in Calgary that I think can do it without ruining the action body). I wonder, though, if some FTR'd T's might not have received 2 groove barrels- were original H&H criteria continued post war? In any case, this one will be with me until I pack it in as I love the character in addition to it being just about the best shooter in my safe at present. The trigger is incredible and all I've done with the rifle is a bit of work on the bedding.

Ridolpho

[browningautorifle]

I'm sure some of these can tell us true if the 2 groove was ever used. Unfortunately, I can't send you to anyone that can do the change without dog-earing the receiver corners...it can be easy or hard...no telling which...

[Roger Payne]

I don't know how many but certainly a few early conversions slipped through with 2 groove barrels as originally fitted. I have seen Savage Mk1* T's & IIRC an early Maltby that appeared still to bear their original tubes. Never seen nor heard of 2 groovers on 43 to 45 rifles though, other than Indian refurbs. Over all I can't imagine many slipped thorugh the 'specification reject' net.

ATB.

[browningautorifle]

Good to know Roger, up until now all I've heard is "NO" 2 groove barrels were installed. Now I know...it makes sense too that some might have slipped by.

[Warren]

BAR: I agree and might do that (if I run into anyone here in Calgary that I think can do it without ruining the action body). I wonder, though, if some FTR'd T's might not have received 2 groove barrels- were original H&H criteria continued post war? In any case, this one will be with me until I pack it in as I love the character in addition to it being just about the best shooter in my safe at present. The trigger is incredible and all I've done with the rifle is a bit of work on the bedding.

Ridolpho

Check your PM's.....

[Peter Laidler]

That's now correct. Some two groove barrels certainly were accepted. However, this is slightly contrary to the original spec which states quite clearly that the 'production' No4T rifles must '........conform to the original specification in every other way..........' and goes on to say in flowery words that the exceptions are the modified backsight and the addition of mounting pads to the bodyside '.....and the letter T following the designation as indicative of its telescope status'.

The original rifle spec of course was a five groove barrel and a Mk1 type foresight block band. And we know that the un-split block bands exist too.............even on L42's as well although whether these un-split block bands were fitted in error at Base Workshops during barrel changes is another matter.

I never found anything to contradict the 'original rifle spec' criteria (5 groove/split block - or what about brass v mazak brass butt plate now that I come to think of it -) but thinking about it, by the time of the introduction of these features into normal rifle production, then I suppose that these features were STANDARD/acceptable/approved production - if not ORIGINAL production. Quite clearly and for obvious reasons, the Mk2,3 and 4 backsights were never options

And as proved time and time again over the past 70 years, 2 groove barrels ARE as acurate as 5 groovers AND out last them and even though I never ever saw a 2 groove No4T, then the proof is in the pudding as they say

[Gnr527]

Not a 4T owner, certainly not an expert but I wouldnt swap a barrel on a perfectly good shooter.

This has been an interesting informative thread - and part of its history.

I'd shoot it, keep rifle and barrels and this thread all together to continue its journey.

Just my 2c

John

[Peter Laidler]

I agree with Gunner above. As an Armourer and an engineer to boot, I am a believer in the saying that if it ain't broke, then I ain't fixin' it! As for the rifle in the future, then it is what it is. Been into an Armourers shop probably many times and had parts repaired or replaced and so on

[Surpmil]

Surpmil: A couple of additional shots of the bolt. It is numbered to match the rifle but I've always assumed its an FTR replacement. The AF0806 appears to have been struck twice. I've also shown a shot of the underside of the front of this No.4 Trials or early type forend. Thanks.

Ridolpho

Is it possible that the number on the bolt was electro-penciled at FTR and then someone later decided they wanted something more "definite" than that and so over-stamped it?