What kind of target sight previously on this Long Branch no4 mk1*?

[stencollector]

Very possible it's a rack number. The thinner piece to retain the safety is the fabricated type which would be correct for 44/45 LongBranch. It performed the same function, but took a lot less material and machining to make.

 

[Philthy1]

The PH5A sight was the first sight to be approved for the No 4 rifle in DCRA competition as the PH No 4 and the PH5C weren't invented yet. I actually used to have a DCRA rifle in 7.62x51 that was fitted with a 5A sight.

Out of curiousity, did DCRA shooters also use the plain old Mk I, II and III sights as well? I'm not very familiar with the competition.

 

[stencollector]

Out of curiousity, did DCRA shooters also use the plain old Mk I, II and III sights as well? I'm not very familiar with the competition.

With no windage adjustment, and the relatively huge aperture on the original sights, I can't see the original sights being competitive. There was also the PH4 sight available. I have a 49 dated LB rifle with that sight on it.

 

[ricohman]

With no windage adjustment, and the relatively huge aperture on the original sights, I can't see the original sights being competitive. There was also the PH4 sight available. I have a 49 dated LB rifle with that sight on it.

Were these matches just within the military?

 

[stencollector]

Were these matches just within the military?

No, the DCRA promoted both military and civilian shooting. Here is the link to their website. If you look through their hall of fame, you will see many civilians listed. http://www.dcra.ca/about.php

Back in the day, there were provisions for the DND to supply the DCRA with service ammunition. As well, DCRA members could buy service weapons (Browning hipower, Enfields, FN C1 and C2, and even the C1 SMG) through the DCRA program.

The DND has always had a certain amount of involvement with the program, although in this day and age of fin codes and shrinking budgets, it is likely not what it once was.

 

[BadgerDog]

1949 C No.4 Mk1* Long Branch Riflehttp://www.milsurps.com/content.php?r=151-1949-C-No.4-Mk1*-Long-Branch-Rifle
All Matching Serial Numbers (Early DCRA Rifle)

(Click PIC to Enlarge)

(Click PIC to Enlarge)

Regards,
Doug

 

[ricohman]

That is a real beauty. Prime example of a post war Long Branch.

 

[Rdrash]

I also have a 45 longbranch MP that has been drilled and tapped for a PH5a. I always thought the RCMPs used it for competitions as I've seen a couple MPs that were able to mount a 5a sight. I would like to get a 5a sight but wow they are expensive.
Trevor

 

[ricohman]

I found a PH5A site and mounted it up. Now I need to take this back to the range.
I am set up for reloading and have some proper bullets. Although this rifle shot boat tails just fine.
The sight came from New Zealand.

 

[tiriaq]

There were SR(a) and SR(b) matches. The "a" matches were for service rifle competition, not much different than the service rifle course of fire still being shot at the DCRA NSCC. "b" competition was all slow fire prone, and target sights could be fitted.