L42a1

[Roger Payne]

Yes, I would concur about the chest. The labels look like photocopies to me. The very last photo (126) in the montage shows a slightly wavy edge suggesting it was cut out using scissors. The labels also all look too perfect, with no greasy marks or minor tears to the edges. Additionally, all of the original chests that I have seen (& none of us have seen them all, I know) have had nicely executed dovetail jointed corners. This is just straight edge screwed & glued.

Agree also about the incorrect forend. Some Mk2 forends did get fitted later on due to shortages of good original Mk1 woodwork, but they were retro-modified for the tie plate.

I haven't had a chance to check yet to see if the rifle s/n is on 'the list' but the rifle, scope, & bracket look intrinsically ok to me, though I would not want to speculate as to whether the scope & bracket were rematched to the rifle in service or after! I'd certainly have them if they fell into my lap at the right price!!


One other minor thing that I forgot............the bolt body at least has had a coat of suncorite after initial issue as the 19T proof mark on the bolt handle is full of black paint. I suppose that could just as easily have happened in or out of service......


Addendum - just checked & AV3671 is indeed on the list - went out on 7th Feb 1973, which I suppose is compatible with the body wall conversion date of '72.