[tex_n_cal]

I have an interest in the SMLE's, as one of the more practical WWII combat rifles - still learning about them. I recently came upon a No. 4 dated 1953 at a local dealer, with a bore that looks better than many new production rifles. Given its DOM I doubt it was shot much, and probably didn't make it to war. It includes a bayonet with s/n that matches the rifle, though the bayonet cover s/n doesn't match.

Price is $299 at a local dealer - higher than most I've seen, but also a lot better shape than any Smelly I have seen at gun shows. The model also has the good aperture rear sight.

Opinions?

[Dave Markowitz]

That's a No.4 Mk.II. With that date on it, it may have been one of the unissued No.4s that came in from Ireland back in the 90s. Is the stock kind of blond?

If it's one of the Irish No.4s then that price isn't out of line. These are FINE rifles, capable of MOA accuracy with good ammo.

[keederdag]

If it's An unissued #4mk2, you better buy it before I get there. I really,,,,I MEAN reallly want one BAAAAAAAAD. And I have a pretty good collection of Enfields. :D

[MuzzleBlast]

Too high for me, but then I'm too poor to be a collector, and a cheap ba$**** besides.

[tex_n_cal]

yes, I believe it is a #4 Mk II, and the stock is kinda blond. Ireland? Interesting, the family's Irish, too.

[swingset]

If it's a 1953, chances are 99.9% that it's one of the unissueds that came in the mid 90's, probably a Fazakerly built rifle (no4mk2) Irish contract gun. PF or A prefixed.

Should look like this one:

http://home.alltel.net/swingset/Gallery_Guns/images/No4mk2_Faz_1955.jpg

If it's in 95% or better condition, BUY IT....$299 is cheap for that rifle. They go in the $350-400 range on AA and Gunbroker.

[Kamicosmos]

Wow...that is one pretty Enfield! I'm so used to my '43's beatup WWII veteran look that my mind has just automatically applied that imagery to all enfields.

[tex_n_cal]

I went back to look, and it's not in that good a shape cosmetically - say maybe 85-90%. The bore looks phenom, however.

I think I will buy it.:) Thanks for the advice