M&D buttstock markings mean...?

[RangeRover]

Have come across a Ross Mk II (photos only) that has no ** after the II, and "M&D" stamped next to the II, rather than the Quebec cartouche. The Quebec cartouche MAY be there, but faint.

None of the Ross photos I've seen through an online search have "M&D" among the markings, so I turn to the Ross owners here to see if others exist.

Thanks.

 

[cantom]

Have come across a Ross Mk II (photos only) that has no ** after the II, and "M&D" stamped next to the II, rather than the Quebec cartouche. The Quebec cartouche MAY be there, but faint.

None of the Ross photos I've seen through an online search have "M&D" among the markings, so I turn to the Ross owners here to see if others exist.

Thanks.

Quoted from P&S Militaria website:

Lee-Metford MKII* Rifle, made by L.S.A., cal. 303 Brit., Buttstock is Canadian marked M&D (Militia & Defence)

 

[myenfield]

Cantom has it - M&D is Canadian department of Militia and Defence. Take a look at my avatar. That is marked on my Lee Enfield Cavalry Carbine butt.

 

[RangeRover]

Thanks Cantom and myenfield...that solves a big part of the mystery.

I'm still wondering how common these marks are, especially on Mk II Ross rifles, and if Mk IIs so marked should also still have the Quebec roundel/cartouche.

Cantom has it - M&D is Canadian department of Militia and Defence. Take a look at my avatar. That is marked on my Lee Enfield Cavalry Carbine butt.

 

[cantom]

Thanks Cantom and myenfield...that solves a big part of the mystery.

I'm still wondering how common these marks are, especially on Mk II Ross rifles, and if Mk IIs so marked should also still have the Quebec roundel/cartouche.

I believe all military Rosses will have that cartouche. It's probably because they were built in Quebec.