An Old Lion can still Roar

In the mid to late 1950's, the reserves (infantry) we were still using the Lee Enfields as the regular forces were converting to the FN. never saw a spare magazine, we loaded with charger clips, either pre loaded out of the box or occasionally we loaded our own. Also there was a rapid fire course but I believe it was 10 aimed rounds in a minute, there was no high speed flurry to achieve maximum shots in a minute. A really good shot could keep all ten shots in the ten ring at 100 yd. At Wainright in 1957 they demonstrated the firepower of the new FN against the old .303, shot as a one minute flurry, the only time I ever saw this. The LE guy charger fed his own rifle and was like a machine, I'll swear it was formidable. The guy with the FN spent more time clearing jams than shooting. We were really glad we still had Lee Enfields.
 
In the mid to late 1950's, the reserves (infantry) we were still using the Lee Enfields as the regular forces were converting to the FN. never saw a spare magazine, we loaded with charger clips, either pre loaded out of the box or occasionally we loaded our own. Also there was a rapid fire course but I believe it was 10 aimed rounds in a minute, there was no high speed flurry to achieve maximum shots in a minute. A really good shot could keep all ten shots in the ten ring at 100 yd. At Wainright in 1957 they demonstrated the firepower of the new FN against the old .303, shot as a one minute flurry, the only time I ever saw this. The LE guy charger fed his own rifle and was like a machine, I'll swear it was formidable. The guy with the FN spent more time clearing jams than shooting. We were really glad we still had Lee Enfields.

No doubt. A skilled Lee Enfield operator is a serious opponent.
 
49744882368_70f4711986_h.jpg


My SMLE III , 1915 Lithgow with 1907 pattern bayo , all numbers matching issued to the Australian 5th division, with the divisions markings on the bayonet also. I believe the division fought in Somme. Its got the mag cut-off but no volley sights. I sourced a period correct repro leather sling for it from New zealand,

AWM_E00019_5th_Div_1916.jpg


the 5th somewhere in Somme 1916
 
Last edited:
Back
Top Bottom