Long Branch Mk I*: refurbed or original?

[Bindi2]

What is it with you blokes a 43 rifle went to war got used abused then sent for repair came back looking as new that is reissued. There is no such thing as factory issue after a war unless it is very late production or it is stamped NZ where they were not issued.

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[Ridolpho]

What is it with you blokes a 43 rifle went to war got used abused then sent for repair came back looking as new that is reissued. There is no such thing as factory issue after a war unless it is very late production or it is stamped NZ where they were not issued.

Bindi: I have postwar refurb SVT 40's, Mosin's, Finn Mosins, 03A3, P14, M1, G98, No. 1's and 4's, etc. but most of those clearly show signs of prior use even after full overhaul. This particular rifle is every bit as perfect as my recently unwrapped No. 4 Mk 2 with not a hint of a pit or blemish anywhere and, specific to the Mk I*, a bolt cutout that is perfect- all in keeping with the new appearing bore. There are instances where new production (during wartime) went straight to storage and survived in truly original condition. There are also instances where stored and unused rifles were subjected to some degree of cosmetic refurbishment for reasons unknown. I am not inclined to think this rifle is in original factory condition but I still would like to see some good photos of this wartime Longbranch bluing. Perhaps the real answer lies in specific markings on parts that would indicate they were replacements used during the 50's by Long Branch. In any case, I explained my motives- if it is clearly a refurb I'll be passing it on to someone who wants a postwar refurb LB for their collection or an excellent condition rifle for the range. Regards.

Ridolpho