May 28 2007
Smelly stuff…
My brother Piet is playing detective with a No.4 Mk.I he acquired recently. I have to admit, this sort of thing has always been my favorite part about owning older firearms. Piecing together the origins of the rifle inevitably acquaints you with more of it’s history, and ultimately increases your appreciation for the rifle itself.
I’ve owned two No.1 Mk.IIIs and two No.4 Mk.Is and have spent more than a few hours on each looking up the acceptance and arsenal markings, reading about the history of the manufacturers and wondering where the rifles had been between manufacture and arriving in my hands.
My job was made easier when I acquired this, the only SMLE I currently own, as I specifically sought it out based on its manufacturer and wartime production date. You see, the previous SMLEs I’d owned were made in England and Australia, the rifle I wanted was one made during WWII at the Longbranch Arsenal here in Canada (in my hometown of Toronto in fact).
I’m still unable to find any good online sources of information regarding the Longbranch Arsenal in Etobicoke, Ontario where this rifle was made. Best I can do right now is a link to Longbranch Arsenal info and pictures through an urban exploration website.
When I get back this afternoon, I’ll strip it down to the core and see if there isn’t some kind of markings on it somewhere.
Last time the wood was off, I don’t remember there being anything.
Never hurts to look.
And like you, I too was originally looking for a Long branch, but got out bid.
Finding a Enfield made in T.O. down here is next to impossible.
Trust me, I’ve tried.
Although I did see a trainer .22 once (made in Canada), at a show, if they didn’t want $500.00 I would have snatched it up.
Cool! Let me know what you find. I truly love this stuff, it gives the rifle some personality. The Lithgow I gave to Mike had all sorts of interesting stamps and markings in the furniture, along with the usual collection on the receiver and barrel. That rifle had been a few places.
Let me know how the serial number check and see if you can’t snap some detailed photos of the markings that are present on the rifle itself.
I would love a No. 8, the .22 LR trainer I learned to shoot on with Cadets.
I can’t get the guy to shoot straight (my problem, not he rifle’s), but I find Gramps (No. 1 Mk. 3 Lithgow) a real joy to shoot.
Mike: I’d forgotten all about those rifles! One would definately be a nifty addition to the collection, but I can’t recall the last time I say one for sale.
I think I’m still going to grab a Ruger 10-22 for my obligatory .22lr rifle (kinda shocked that I still haven’t acquired one to be honest, I’ve been without a .22 for over a year now), but a nice consignment rack cooey wouldn’t be sneezed at either.
As for the Lithgow, it is a little “shot out”, thats a dark bore and I think that rifle has seen it’s fair share of service. The accuracy never was amazing with that rifle, but it remains one of the most amazing examples of cartouche history I have ever seen. The rifle has personality to spare, it’s another I only mildly regret parting with. (the fact that you own it is some consolation, however!)
I don’t mind it being broken in, as I’d feel guilty shooting a piece of history that started in mint condition.
Agreed.