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    Legacy Member AlleghenyMountain's Avatar
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    New to Lee Enfields

    Good evening everyone. I've gotten interested in Lee Enfields in the last couple of months (watched A Bridge Too Far again). I've watched videos, bought Ian Skennertonicon's book, and of course searched the net. As luck would have it, we have 2 for sale locally, a Number 4 Mark I and a Number 5 at a pawn shop. I believe the Number 4 is a Maltby rifle. I've not had the bolt out to look at the bore. I have noticed the bolt rising when I'm squeezing the trigger, which I've read is not a big deal, but still makes me uncomfortable. The carbine's bore looks rough, but I don't get that bolt rising. I'm also looking at a couple of SMLEs online. Eventually I'd like one of each mentioned, I like the thought of having a rifle someone carried into combat. I'm interested in opinions, thoughts, suggestions. Thanks!
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    A Collector's View - The SMLE Short Magazine Lee Enfield 1903-1989. It is 300 8.5x11 inch pages with 1,000+ photo’s, most in color, and each book is serial-numbered.  Covering the SMLE from 1903 to the end of production in India in 1989 it looks at how each model differs and manufacturer differences from a collecting point of view along with the major accessories that could be attached to the rifle. For the record this is not a moneymaker, I hope just to break even, eventually, at $80/book plus shipping.  In the USA shipping is $5.00 for media mail.  I will accept PayPal, Zelle, MO and good old checks (and cash if you want to stop by for a tour!).  CLICK BANNER to send me a PM for International pricing and shipping. Manufacturer of various vintage rifle scopes for the 1903 such as our M73G4 (reproduction of the Weaver 330C) and Malcolm 8X Gen II (Unertl reproduction). Several of our scopes are used in the CMP Vintage Sniper competition on top of 1903 rifles. Brian Dick ... BDL Ltd. - Specializing in British and Commonwealth weapons Specializing in premium ammunition and reloading components. Your source for the finest in High Power Competition Gear. Here at T-bones Shipwrighting we specialise in vintage service rifle: re-barrelling, bedding, repairs, modifications and accurizing. We also provide importation services for firearms, parts and weapons, for both private or commercial businesses.
     

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    Legacy Member CanadianLanBoy's Avatar
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    Almost all Lee-Enfields will have the bolt lift when dry firing, however this does not happen when firing (provided the bolt is fitted correctly)


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    Advisory Panel browningautorifle's Avatar
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    Agreed, it's just the way the spring releases when empty, when firing live the bolt handle stays put.
    Regards, Jim

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    Buy both.

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    Legacy Member LTPayton88's Avatar
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    I agree with everyone above. It is 100% normal for the bolt to jump when dry firing. Once you throw live ammunition into the mix the pressure on the bolt keeps it in place and it never moves. Buy all 3.

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    Legacy Member AlleghenyMountain's Avatar
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    Current asking price for the Number 5 is $419, the Number 4 is $550. Good to hear that the bolt rising is not a big deal. And I wish I could afford to buy at least 2.

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    Legacy Member Daan Kemp's Avatar
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    All things being equal, I would go for the No 5. Less of them made than No 4 Mk 1.

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    Contributing Member Singer B's Avatar
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    $419 for a No 5 is pretty low. Make sure you do some research and know what to look for to confirm it is a "true" No 5 and not one of the many, many fakes out there. No 5's should always command a higher price than No 4s because they only manufactured about 250,000 while they made millions of No 4s. Good luck!

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    Contributing Member 30Three's Avatar
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    I would suggest getting the best condition rifle for your budget; rather than two rough ones.
    You want matching numbers; good headspace and a decent barrel condition. Wear and tear on the woodwork is part of the history.
    For your first Enfield Rifleicon; you want to enjoy it. It's a good investment. Then you can increase your collection as the funds become available.
    The time gives you a chance to learn more and avoid the potential bad purchases that can take away the pleasure of ownership.

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    Legacy Member AlleghenyMountain's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by 30Three View Post
    I would suggest getting the best condition rifle for your budget; rather than two rough ones.
    You want matching numbers; good headspace and a decent barrel condition. Wear and tear on the woodwork is part of the history.
    For your first Enfield Rifleicon; you want to enjoy it. It's a good investment. Then you can increase your collection as the funds become available.
    The time gives you a chance to learn more and avoid the potential bad purchases that can take away the pleasure of ownership.
    This is probably the route I'll take, not really comfortable with what I've seen on these two locally. I may take a chance on an online purchase. Meanwhile I'll keep reading.

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