Lithgow SMLE FTR 1955 help

[Craig Eberhardt]

Hello there,

I am looking at a 1943 Lithgow No 1 Mk III that is marked FTR 1955

Was the Lithgow factory reworking these in 1955?

It has a 44 marked Slazenger stock on it.

Thanks in advance

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[Son]

Yes, the factory did FTR them into 1955. Most of the stock parts would have been new, occasionally a butt would be retained. Is it the butt or foreend marked '44 SLAZ? It could have been original to the rifle, often the receiver dates are behind original barrel dates (which give a better indication of original assembly) so the '44 dated wood could be original too.

[Craig Eberhardt]

Thank you...I will post some photos in a few weeks when I get my hands on it

[FTX03]

Is that the one on usedguns? with the bayonet?

[Craig Eberhardt]

Is that the one on usedguns? with the bayonet?

Yes..I think I got a good deal

[Son]

Yes..I think I got a good deal

I think the deal was pretty good too. I have a '55FTR and it is without a doubt the best finished standard rifle I own. It shoots better than I can.

Looking forward to some good pics, with the accessories!

[Craig Eberhardt]

Thanks for your prompt reply to my earlier post Son.

It will take a few weeks to actually get my hands on it but when I do I will post some photos.

It looks like it was never issued. Do you think this is possible?

[FTX03]

Bastrad you beat me lol, Thats a beautful rifle

[Craig Eberhardt]

Bastrad you beat me lol, Thats a beautful rifle

I hope it looks as good in the flesh

[Son]

Unissued is quite likely, unused a bit less likely... proving either is near impossible.

You can only go off the condition you find it in. Exc. Cond is still exc cond. if it's had a few rounds through it and been looked after.