BSA No1 Mk 111 dated 1908

[4004757]

I have just purchased a BSA No 1 Mk 111 dated 1908. I have been advised that this gun spent most iof its life as a wall hanger at a local boarding school. Gun is all over in mint unmolested factory condition with original barrel and rifling is mint and appears unfired. I'm not sure about the markings on this gun, so some help from a few BSA collectors would be appreciated. I am worried about the large stamp '1610' above the serial number on the action and this same number is on the but (see photos). Looks like its been stamped by a back yarder. I would imagine guns of this vintage still with their original unfired barrels would be rare?. Any help would be appreciated

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[5thBatt]

From what i can see, all looks good & if the rest is that good!
Please show us lots of pics, would really love to see it all.

[Homer]

Looks very nice so far. Can we see the rest of it?

[4004757]

Attached more photos. Still eager to know what the 1610 stamped on the receiver and stock stands for?

[4004757]

I should have mentioned that I attached a period BSA appeture sight to this gun shortly after taking ownership.

[Beerhunter]

I should have mentioned that I attached a period BSA appeture sight to this gun shortly after taking ownership.

I just have to ask why, especially as you appear to have removed the original volley sight to do so.

BTW, I guess you do have a bolt?

[Steve H. in N.Y.]

Happy to be corrected but I believe that 1610 is an extra inventory number, not uncommon on Australian rifles. Not sure of the time frame but I think it was a "between the wars" thing.

[4004757]

See attached photos of bolt. The period BSA target appature sight (see photo) I understand is rare, especially in this country. The removal of the original volley sight to attached the target sight (which has a built in volley) was simply done so that I may use and enjoy this gun. I agree It does detract from its authenticity , but this can be reversed in 10 seconds.

[muffett.2008]

Not so rare, in OZ in the first month it was available, 3000 were sold. In the UK it was the highest selling item of that era with sales in the millions.

[Homer]

I would say the rifle is the hero, not the sight, but if you like to shoot the rifle with that particular sight, that's understandable.