DCRA Long Branch

[Baal]

Just arrived today, a 1943 Long Branch No.4 MkI*, DCRA #1390 in 7.62mm. The bore is bright and sharp but there's a tiny bit of surface rust on the receiver and the two front sling swivels, as well as a few dings in the wood.

The bolt and receiver have the DCRA stamp and the number 1390. The barrel has 1390 in brackets at the chamber end and C broad Arrow and 7.62 at the muzzle. The only markings on the buttstock are at the bottom of the grip behind the trigger guard, a C Braod Arrow and B over 32. The front lower wood has B over 32, C Broad Arrow, A, then a B at the foreend and an R at the other end.

No markings on the magazine and I'm not sure what make it is. The rear sight has a B at the top left and is marked from 2 to 8 for range.

I don't have a scale, but offhand I'd say it's at least 1, maybe 2 pounds, lighter than my 1955 Fazakerly No.4 Mk2. Very noticeable difference.

What weight of bullet should I be loading for this? I have Sierra 150 grain FMJ and 175 grain HPBT on hand right now.

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[bearhunter]

It will be a toss up as to what it likes. Mine likes 165 grain spitzer boat tails. Doesn't really matter what make, it's not that fussy. It also likes some of the surplus thats been on the market in the past few years, like the South African and Austrian Hirtenberger offerings. It also like the IVI stuff with the 147 grain bullets when I can find it. Doesn't seem to be fussy about lots either.
Mine also doesn't do well with heavier bullets. I tried some 180 grain flat base and boat tail loads but the groups just got larger with both. The lighter 135 grain bullets were a disaster, even though they were excellent performers in a HBR rifle.