Collector restoring SMLE MkIII* HT

[SMLE Aussie]

Hi everyone - I'm a collector of British Commonwealth militaria and a long time member of the Historical Arms Collectors here in Australia.

I have recently acquired a rusty SMLE No1 MkIII (1917 Lithgow) that turned out being a genuine HT. It had been placed in secure store by the previous owner while in hospital for 10 months, but the store had been flooded and his entire collection remained there under water. I fortunately happened upon it 30mins after having been brought into a gun shop I frequent - it still had water in the action! The wood looked promising, so I bought it for $100 with the intention of removing the action and later swapping it for one in good condition. No-one had noticed the 'H' on the butt as the bolt was rusted open and had covered it. Upon finally removing the bolt I found the 'H'. Light wire brush on the serial number and sure enough, genuine Lithgow HT sniper.

Anyway, I'm now committed to restoring it, but have quite a few questions for SMLE experts on the forum!

I have managed to get it apart, and the stock is coming along nicely (3 boils, steaming, restoring oil...). Have acquired a replacement heavy barrel, and am stripping the rust off old parts with molasses. I want to restore the nose cap as it has matching numbers - but it is badly pitted. Ultimately, I need advice on things like coating. Original SMLE snipers were painted olive drab over the blueing - but what parts? I can't seem to find out if it was just the action and barrel, or also the nosecap, trigger guard, rear sight etc.

Anyway, I look forward to discussing my not so little project!

Cheers
Lee

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