SMLE can't read the date

[sequoia4100]

I have a BSA and Co built SMLE but I can't actually read the date stamp. It's a MK III no star so has mag cut off slot and windage sight. I believe BSA switched to MK III* in mid 1915 so my guess is this is pre mid 1915 or post 1918. Serial number range seems high so IDK if its pre 1915. Any knowledge of serial numbers on BSA SMLE's? It looks like it went back for a check up or refurb in '26 which seems to suggest a pre 1915 manufacture date. I know BSA changed their script on the stampings (BSA & Co) at some point as well.

 

[recce]

I don't know what the highest number was prior to the change to the III*, my 1915 III is higher than yours though.

 

[sequoia4100]

OK thanks Recce. Id say by the spacing of the stamped "1915" on your rifle that the mine is likely 1911. It looks like the digit is missing between the 9 and the 1 not after the 1.

 

[Nabs]

It looks like a 1911 receiver with a 1926 dated barrel replacement. The magazine cut off slot, as you noted, is visible in the last picture as well.

 

[Biloba]

Definitely a 1911

 

[enefgee]

Definitely a 1911

I concur - the "1" is one space away from the 9 - so it's either 11, 21, 31, or 41. Given the features and lack of a star, it pretty much has to be 11.

 

[Pblatzz]

It looks like a 1911 receiver with a 1926 dated barrel replacement. The magazine cut off slot, as you noted, is visible in the last picture as well.

I agree 1911 receiver date, the barrel 26' with some damage to the font stamp. Threw me for a bit, looked like it ended with a 3

 

[5THBATT]

My 1911 BSA MkIII has a U prefix s/n

 

[jtaylor]

Hello 5THBATT. My 1911 BSA Mk III is U77430 with all the original parts converted in Australia to the HV ammunition. Instead of using dies
for the H and the V stamps behind the rear sight base the armourers used a small number 1 on multiple strikes. Australian ownership stamps to the butt and body indicate CMF (Commonwealth Militia Force) and NSW (New South Wales). An interesting piece in exceptional condition. JOHN

 

[5THBATT]

Hello 5THBATT. My 1911 BSA Mk III is U77430 with all the original parts converted in Australia to the HV ammunition. Instead of using dies
for the H and the V stamps behind the rear sight base the armourers used a small number 1 on multiple strikes. Australian ownership stamps to the butt and body indicate CMF (Commonwealth Militia Force) and NSW (New South Wales). An interesting piece in exceptional condition. JOHN

Mine is U76498, full matching numbers including the cocking piece as made in 1911, also converted to MkVII in Australia with RANB over VICTORIA & a VIC NAVAL roundel stamped on the butt.