My interest in the Bantam butt stock has been aroused by my recent acquisition of a No.1 Mk.III* fitted with a Bantam butt stock. The first one I have ever seen in the flesh.

The rifle in question is an all matching (action body, bolt, barrel, rear sight and nose cap. The forearm is not numbered) 1940 No.1 Mk.III* BSA Dispersal rifle, every thing on it seems to be correct, but the butt stock is an Enfield made Bantam butt that is inlet for a marking disk. The rifle also shows no sign of ever having been FTRed It leads me to these questions.

How long were the Bantam butts used? IIRC production of Bantam butts started for the SMLE Mk.III in 1914 with the formation of the Bantam Regiments, but when did production stop? Did it stop in 1916 when men under regulation height were no longer accepted into regiments, or were Bantam stocks produced to the end of No.1 Mk.III* production? If they were not produced after 1916, what is one doing on a BSA Dispersal rifle? From what I have read, it was not to uncommon for them to end up on cadet rifles, but I don't believe this was a cadet rifle.

Also, one other question... Does anyone know who (what country) cut the hand guard legs off? As far as I can tell that is the only thing "wrong" with this rifle.

Any thoughts, insights or other information is greatly appreciated.
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