I just picked up a No4 Mk 1* Dated 1944 and made at BSA Shirley (M/47c). It's in pretty nice shape with all matching numbers that I can see and a good bore. Some of it, but not all, is covered with black paint that is chipping badly and is worn. There does appear to be some sort of finish to the metal underneath that is a light grey in color. The magazine is painted halfway, up to where it enters the magazine well.

Is this an original finish as manufactured or a preservative covering coated on it prior to storage? It looks like it was applied with a brush as it is uneven and has a few runs in it.

I would prefer removing it to see the original markings but if it is original to the manufacture may consider leaving it.
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