Identification Question

[mausernut]

Looking at a SMLE and having trouble finding a clear manufacturer mark. Think it was made in the Enfield factory but the mark on the barrel isn't clear. It is a No4 Mk1 built in 1942. Was wondering if the serial # could help because it has an E in front of it. # is E2232.

Information

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[Thunderbox]

Its the four digits that indicate a manufacturer in this case. Four digit numbers were used on very early BSA-built rifles. The five-digit system with factories identified by "1", "2", or "3" came later in 1942.


If the number is original, then its likely to be a BSA. If the rifle has not been rebuilt too much, you may find a large "B" stamp on the safety lever and components (its similar to- and often mistaken for the Long Branch "L superimposed on a B" mark). This is the old BSA mark that preceded the use of wartime "M47" codes for BSA.

[mausernut]

Yes there is a mark on the buttsocket that may be a B but ENGLAND has been stamped over it as well as the E to indicate enfield rifling.

Thanks for the info

[Peter Laidler]

The letter E is nothing to do with Enfield rifling. It is a part of the sequential serial number

[mausernut]

There is no serial # behind that E

[Sentryduty]

Do you have some photos to share? Those do help quite a bit with identifying markings and related pieces, especially both side of the butt socket and alongside the flat part of the action.

It would save the fellows guessing.

[Peter Laidler]

In thread 1 you say thet there is a letter E followed by 2232!!!!! Or am I missing something in the telling? A photo will tell us all we need to know to answer the Q.

[mausernut]

Both i will post photos a little later

[mausernut]

[ATTACH][ATTACH]Attachment 69537[/ATTACH][/ATTACH]

Here are the pictures

[Sentryduty]

That is perfect, the fellows will have a much better assessment for you now, but looks like a 1942 Faz, others will have more info, as I don't have my history books right at hand.

The rear of the action looks like it has seen some awful butchering to fit that scope mount, it appears the charger guide and rear sight base have been completely obliterated.