Question re AIA M10 No 4 mk IV origin

[Cantom]

Given the way the prices of Lee-Enfields keep sky-rocketing in Canada, I think the AIA rifles will start to look more and more attractive to shooters.

The "why would I spend $800 when I can get a real LE for $400" arguement is starting to lose it's relevance.

That reminds me, I need to get out and shoot mine. Definitely need to try it out to 500m this year.

Do you think they'd make a good Ranger rifle Stevo?

[Stevo]

Do you think they'd make a good Ranger rifle Stevo?

Given that they're essentially no different from a .303 No 4, I think they'd be a suitable replacement. Durability would still be a question due to their newness but I don't see any obvious weak points over the .303.

Pros:
-Chrome lined bore is a plus, should lead to longer barrel life when maintenance is not regular or thorough.
-Detachable magazine design. Given the procedures we are expected to follow when shooting (ie: remove the mag when clearing rifle), the M14 type mag and release is easier to operate and less likely to damage feed lips from repetive removal/insertion.
-Scope mount. Many Ranger's (at least in my Patrol, and I include myself in this) eyesight is not what it once was, due to age, and the ease of mounting a low power scope or RDS would be a definite advantage, IMO. When I find an S&K mount for a decent price, I'll try my Aimpoint out on my issue No. 4.

Cons:
-Cost. Obviously they're more expensive than No 4's available on the world surplus market. But not necessarily forever as the supply of rifles diminishes.
-Durability. Unproven.
-Weight. My No4 Mk4 is at least a full pound heavier than my issue LB.
-Spares. While there seems to be spares available from Canadian dealers at this time, factory spares may not be available in the future. That could be remedied by contracting a Canadian company for them, like was done with Diemaco/Colt Canada for No4 spares.

All in all, there could be worse choices for a replacement Ranger rifle. I'm pretty much convinced that the .303 No4 will soldier on for many years with no replacement. Rifles in the system that are deadlined or in poor shape will need to be rebuilt in order to keep up with demand, however.

[AUSSIE]

In Australia where the AIA M10 is widely available there has never been any question of durability with these guns! They are absolutely bombproof!

[Bearman405]

Are any of the 7.62x39 carbines in Canada?

[Stevo]

Are any of the 7.62x39 carbines in Canada?

Nope.

[limpetmine]

I bought an M10-A2 today, (in the USA) and had the opportunity to buy two.
I may yet go back and get it in a few weeks if it is still there. The $699.00 price tag, plus 8% is pretty steep. The wood on this thing looks like a handmade Pigeon grade rifle. The wood around the grip looks like burl, and the tiger striping is nothing short of fabulous. I'm not to keen on buying stuff from the 'Nam, but Enfielditis overruled me. I'm looking for an M10-B2 or -4, but it sounds like none of these made it in. Is this correct, that only the carbines got in ? Were they all -A2's or did some -A1's come in also? Mine has the stated
engraving on the side, AIA, Brisbaine, with no country or origin.
Interesting thread. I'm glad I felt the urge to head to the store at lunch today!

[Cantom]

I bought an M10-A2 today, (in the USA) and had the opportunity to buy two.
I may yet go back and get it in a few weeks if it is still there. The $699.00 price tag, plus 8% is pretty steep. The wood on this thing looks like a handmade Pigeon grade rifle. The wood around the grip looks like burl, and the tiger striping is nothing short of fabulous. I'm not to keen on buying stuff from the 'Nam, but Enfielditis overruled me. I'm looking for an M10-B2 or -4, but it sounds like none of these made it in. Is this correct, that only the carbines got in ? Were they all -A2's or did some -A1's come in also? Mine has the stated
engraving on the side, AIA, Brisbaine, with no country or origin.
Interesting thread. I'm glad I felt the urge to head to the store at lunch today!

Nice grab! None of the 7.62x39 rifles ever made it into Canada AFAIK.
Hope it feeds okay, they were reputed to have feeding issues. Maybe you can let us know!

Wonder what it would look like with a long AK mag on it?

[Digger]

Well I just got my 3rd AIA. I'd really like the 7.62x39 version though if they ever make it here.