Lee-Enfield No 1 MK3 SMLE vs Long Branch No.4 MKI*

[AntiqueOutings]

I don't know much about these rifles and I am going to a gun show this weekend. What should I be looking for to find a good deal.

From what I have seen, the Long Branch No. 4 MKI* seem to be selling for around $250-$400 and the Lee-Enfield No 1 MK3 SMLE that I have seen start around $300-$600.

I currently have an bayonet for the Lee-Enfield No 1 MK3 SMLE, so I am really leaning towards that. I also love the history around the gun, since it was used in WW1 and WW2.

Are there certain years that are better to pick up? What things should I look for to get the best value and the best gun?

Cheers

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[RobD]

Personally: I would try for something with volley sights; if not, then a British rifle dated pre-1918; or a Lithgow rifle of any pre-1945 date.

[Black Jack]

Well, all years are good years for Lee-Enfield's regardless for NoI or No4 .

NoI
Pre 1907 variants will run higher in value and of course sometimes in rough shpae.
1907 to 1916 NoI MkIII's are going to have all of the doo-dad's volley sights, magazine cutoff's, stock disc if they have not been re-arseneled.
Post 1916 NoI MkIII*'s, some may have cut-off's some may not.
WWII era may have cutoff may not, may have stock disc, may not. You will see less of them but are great rifles.
Numerous manufacturer's, from England, to Australia, and India (hope I did not forget any)

No4's
There are the No4 MkI and No4 MkI*, difference is between how you remove the bolt, and Longbranch and Savage made both prepare to give extra $$$
Keep an eye out for Maltby, Fazakerly, etc, same rifle, maybe cheaper. Bayonets are pretty cheap so don't discount the No4.

As for price, location and economy will vary but you have done some research so you know the range. All matching rifles will command higher prices, non-matching usually middle of road and lower. Anythig marked FR or FTR were done by an armorer so don't shy away. Take your time examining the rifle, haste may make waste.

P.S.
JJCo, SanteFe and Golden Arms rifle may be another story.

[Thunderbox]

Buy both.

Soon you'll have about twenty Enfields....