Enfield Actions for project

Tbolt

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Hi All

I'm looking into starting a new project.
I was thinking about building/refurbing an Enfield, maybe a M1917 or a #4Mk1(*)

First off let me say I realize that building from parts is likely to be more expensive than just buying one, but I want to do it for the experience.

I'm wondering what the going rate would be for the following actions, assuming vg or greater condition.

- #4Mk1(*) the various manufacturers LB, Savage,etc
- M1917
- P-14

Just trying to get some ideas before hitting the next gunshow in May.
Already looking online, but have only found 1 Savage #4 so far

If I could get an idea of the prices for stripped actions, complete actions, and the previous actions with barrels that would be great.

Any info that I can get would be greatly appreciated.
I remember at the last show I was at I saw a good number of #4 buttstocks, and handguards, along with bits and pieces for M1917s and P14s.
I want to really take a good look next time, and to also be prepared with as much info as I can get in order to not get screwed price wise.

Thank in advance
 
I'd stay with the No4 action as it's a lot easier to get parts. You have to decide if you're building a sporter or restoring to full military. The difference being the barrel length and configuration. Budget prices and I'll assuming good condition...barrelled action $100.00 -150.00; magazine $35.00 - $50.00; walnut butt stock 25.00 - 60.00; forend 125.00 - 175.00: handguards $50.00 - $75.00 and then there's all the metal bits. Hope this helps. Ron
 
If you are going to do that, start with something with an intact barrel with sharp rifling.
Probably cheapest and easiest to buy a complete sported rifle.
 
I found a stripped barrelled action Savage #4 with the trigger assembly that looked to be in nearly mint shape, the barrel was apparently pristine, the only problem was that the barrel had been sported down to 22-23". :(:( If I could find a Savage barrel to replace that one then maybe.
 
By the time you have found and installed the barrel, that one likely would not have been a bargain if it was given to you.
 
You can be a wise shopper. I think you're leaning towards a full military. Buy a barrelled action. Get the best possible bore you can afford. Rebarrelling is a very expensive option.
Ron
 
If rebarrelling is that expensive I will definitely lean towards getting a barreled action.
Is it removing the old barrel or the installation of the new one that makes it cost so expensive?
I just wish that the Savage barrel hadn't been cut. It would have been perfect :(
 
Fine replacement barrels aren't all that common. The days of brand new in the wrap 1950s BSA barrels at 3 for $100 are gone.
Proper tools are needed to remove and replace a barrel.
It is easier to buy a sported rifle than find a barrel. And if you do, it was likely removed from a sported rifle.
 
Removing the barrel is not a difficult task. You need a barrel vice to remove and install. Of course a set of nogo/go/field guages for head space..all these added up to a couple hundred dollars. Then its to find a good barrel....minimum you'll pay for a very good Long Branch 5 groove will be $100.00. You're way ahead of the game to purchase a very good complete barrelled action. You'll still have a challenge in finding the wood, sights and small bits to put it all together...you'll learn alot about Enfields and end up with a very desireable rifle.
 
I found a stripped barrelled action Savage #4 with the trigger assembly that looked to be in nearly mint shape, the barrel was apparently pristine, the only problem was that the barrel had been sported down to 22-23". :(:( If I could find a Savage barrel to replace that one then maybe.

Sounds like a perfect candidate for a Tanker Enfield Project... Give some self respect back to a classic :D

MB
 
Best bet by far...buy sportered rifles. You get a complete rifle for like $75-$150.


Hi All

I'm looking into starting a new project.
I was thinking about building/refurbing an Enfield, maybe a M1917 or a #4Mk1(*)

First off let me say I realize that building from parts is likely to be more expensive than just buying one, but I want to do it for the experience.

I'm wondering what the going rate would be for the following actions, assuming vg or greater condition.

- #4Mk1(*) the various manufacturers LB, Savage,etc
- M1917
- P-14

Just trying to get some ideas before hitting the next gunshow in May.
Already looking online, but have only found 1 Savage #4 so far

If I could get an idea of the prices for stripped actions, complete actions, and the previous actions with barrels that would be great.

Any info that I can get would be greatly appreciated.
I remember at the last show I was at I saw a good number of #4 buttstocks, and handguards, along with bits and pieces for M1917s and P14s.
I want to really take a good look next time, and to also be prepared with as much info as I can get in order to not get screwed price wise.

Thank in advance
 
I purchased a ERA P14 at the Chilliwack show for $150 with a bubba'd stock but original, intact metal, and passed on a nice Winchester M17 in full wood, including bayonet for $300. There were a few Lee Enfields in various guises for similar money. Probably more parts available for Mk4 restoration than either the P14 or M17, but the actions of the latter models are much more adaptable for custom projects.
 
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