1944 Lithgow SMLE re recoil blocks

A

albertacowboy

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How likely is it that a 1944 Lithgow SMLE, all-matching in unissued condition, should have the copper recoil blocks already installed behind the action? If they are not installed, where would I find such parts?

Many thanks,
Albertacowboy
 
albertacowboy: My '44, in similar condition, has them as do a couple of others I'm familiar with. Is your stock definitely coachwood? Is it obviously missing blocks or is it properly fitted at the draws without blocks? I have made copper blocks from plumbing fittings- not hard to do as it's so soft.

milsurpo
 
I have two of these in coachwood stocks a '43 and a '44, that are pretty much unissued and neither had the copper blocks installed. I had one of them fitted with them and accurized and it shoots like a dream. The other, I'll leave as it came. I wonder if they left them without them for a break in period to compact the wood before the blocks were installed, so that the blocks would be backing against already compacted wood and may hold their position tighter for a longer period of time?
 
Many of the Lithgow SMLE were assembled from parts by the US Importer J. Jovino in the 90's, those usually do not have the recoil blocks.

ht tp://www.enfield-rifles.com/topic4501.html
 
Regarding the copper blocks, Skennerton (in S.A.I.S. #19) says: "Copper plate secured by screws were then used, discontinued as a wartime economy in December 1942 but then applied again by Slazengers from May of 1943". I know there is talk about this subject over on Gunboards Lee Enfield forum from time to time.

milsurpo
 
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