How did canada end up with
- Thread starter Kernalvax
- Start date
My SMLE was built at RSAF Enfield in 1917, but it has markings and a Parkerized finish that indicate an Australian rebuild. In addition, it also has a C-broad arrow stamped on the receiver, which suggests that it saw Canadian service prior to making its way to Australia.
Its just what was brought in. The Surplus dealers scour the markets looking for rifles. and Bring them in. They could be Australian, South African, British, or even some of our own Canadian ones.
Chance are, in fifty years or someone is gonna wonder why so many Russian SKS's are in the country.
Chance are, in fifty years or someone is gonna wonder why so many Russian SKS's are in the country.
Because the USA cant have thoses and we can have them cheap
I just picked up a sweet wire wrapped, and Parkerized 1942 Lithgow SMLE at a local gunshow, and I thought it was kind of wierd to see an Aussie out here as well. At first glance, I thought it was an Ishapore, but the markings say otherwise.
wire wrapped? Around the wrist?
Grenade launder ones IIRC. There's a nice example still intact with the launcher on the end at the war museum in ottawa.
- Location
- Manitoulin Island
Remember, the Aussies never changed from the #1 MKIII to the #4 Rifle. If you see later vintage #1 rifles there is a good chance they will be Lithgows.
... One of the factors is that Australia got caught a little short when WW2 broke out, Australians Troops were overseas, in the Middle East. And, Hong Kong, Singapore etc., when the Japanese started their Islands Hopping Conquests. Consequently Lee Enfields from all sources where pressed into service until Home Manufacturing could be bought fully on line........... As the War closed, Australia was producing more than was actually needed,and with the War's end a LOT were put into long term storage "just in case" and Australia had learned the lesson, not to be caught short again. ....... With the advent of the FN Rifle ( L1a1 ) and the Korean War wound down, the Rifles previously into Long term Storage were released, both to the Domestic and Export Markets. ..... Add to the mix, Australia didn't suffer a shortage of raw materials, and the result was a very high quality of both workmanship and materials was maintained throughout, with no disruption due Bombings etc.. ....... David K
