Question on Bren L4 Markings

[Hangar18x]

Just started the build on my L4 Bren. It's the first one I've seen with the stenciled buttstock. In deciding whether to put the stenciled markings back on, would like the experts to chime in on what they mean. Assumed they were division numbers but wasn't sure.

Information

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[nzl1a1collector]

It maybe just a rack number RACK 3, position 43 ?

[Hangar18x]

I found this website but it is vehicle markings....coincidentally the '3' is Divisional Support Battalions, machine guns and mortars...which would make sense, but I don't know if it's even related.

Infantry Division Vehicle Markings

I have the L4 built now, minus the barrel, need to decide whether to put these markings back on or not.

[WallyG.]

Guess it would depend on what organization and country were the last owners of the weapon. Different possibilities abound - but hard to ascribe based on parts alone. inthe end its a tatoo that this particular weapon picked up in service. If you like it... preserve it... if not.. swap out the part or remove the paint. Enjoy your Bren!

[Brit plumber]

That isn’t an L4 lower or butt, it looks like a Mk2 lower and butt. You ideally need a Mk3 lower and Mk4 butt and then etch the L4 serial on the left side of the lower above and slightly behind the pistol grip.

[Hangar18x]

Yes. When I opened the kit it was kind of a let down it had the mk2 butt, but since it was mated to the mk2 receiver I just went with it. It's all back together now just waiting on a barrel. Might buy another kit and see what comes with it. Can never have too many Bren's.

[Brit plumber]

I actually misread your post and I thought you said it was an L4A4. As an L4A3 the lower is fine, my A3 has a Mk2 lower after FTR (it’s also a Mk2/1 body). The Mk3 butt is quite common and I dare say Kev Groom may have a NOS one with all the hardware.

You can also bar out the lower serial and electro pencil the A3 serial on the left as they did later.

[Hangar18x]

Speaking of buttstocks......Don't happen to have a secret in for the early mk 1 wood do you?

[browningautorifle]

It maybe just a rack number RACK 3, position 43 ?

I agree it's a rack number.

coincidentally the '3' is Divisional Support Battalions, machine guns and mortars...which would make sense, but I don't know if it's even related.

We in the commonwealth don't mark our unit numbers on things like the US units. I wouldn't worry about keeping it. You could always re-stencil it if you feel the urge.

[Hangar18x]

All the replies are much appreciated. Since general consensus leads to the rack number conclusion, it won't be going back on. When it's unique, like the early enfield's that had the unit information on the brass disc, I like to add it back in to the "refurbishment."

Thanks again.