Need help Centering SMLE barrel (trigger guard issue?)

[30Three]

Looking at your very first photo, it appears that it's the receiver that is off centre; not just the magazine catch. The gaps between the receiver and wood are not equal.
Are you sure of the fit in this area?
I am not an expert; but I did deal with a similar issue on my no1MkIII*. In my case the selling dealer had attached NOS woodwork to the rifle without correct fitting. The rifle shot a 6" spread at 50 metres.
To correct the issue I started by reading as much information from experienced sources; such as Capt' Peter Laidler. Only then did I strip-down and examine the rifle.
How did you ensure equal load on both draws? In my case there were several issues with the fore end; but the cause of the barrel being off centre in the barrel channel was corrected with proper adjustment at the draws.

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[CanadianLanBoy]

Thanks for the reply 30Three

Since this gun was originally set up very wrong, the forend tightness came from the rear of the forend tightly fitting against the butt socket, not the draws, which were cut so they made no contact.

Before I shot the rifle I came across my first spot of knowledge which was BOTRs video about inspecting a No.1 Mk.3. I relieved the contact with the butt socket, and built the draws back up with epoxy. I have tried shimming them, to no avail, and cutting out the epoxy and re building it up to no avail. I have considered a mil-spec repair in patching the draws with some scrap walnut lying around, but frankly I am not a good worker, nor do I have a steady hand. I am going to be practicing with some scrap 2x2 over the next few days and may attempt the repair once I feel up to it.

CanadianLanBoy