This is one of Bubba's
This is a 1942 Lithgow No.1 Mk.III* that has improvements by Bubba.
It has an original front sight but now has no clumsy protector ears, or nose cap, or nose for that matter! Much better! Bubba never got around to improving the sight and base, this is still factory, so if yours looks like this, your barrel is uncut and can possibly be returned to original.
The charger guide bridge is such a big chunk of metal that isn't ever seen on a sporting arm. Bubba cleaned up the lines of the receiver with a grinder. As you can see, he was skilled enough to perform this without removing the action from the wood.
This now leaves the receiver with lines reminiscent of the old Long Lees
The woodwork on a rifle can set the whole thing off. Nothing like a good contour job around the forearm area. Lighten things up and made the grip on the rifle comfortable to carry. Finish is important. This rifle has a beautiful patina on the metalwork and a georgeous deck stain and varnish finish to the wood that is attractive and long lasting.
I not sure if I should restore this rifle, however, I mind is being swayed and changed by hard core collectors who preach not to remove any of the rifles history, even a too vigorous cleaning is bad. I have been persuaded by others to leave any Lee Enfield the way that I find it. We are all just temporary keepers of these arms. Every little variation tells a story. I wouldn't want to spoil the authenticity of this fine old gal. i might want to list it on auctionarms one day!!!
I'm thinking of fitting the muzzle for a lamp fixture and passing the electrical chord down the bore and outa the breech, mount the butt on a base. This isn't much of a donor rifle, the only thing salvageable is the trigger group, the butt plate and maybe the bolt head. Oh well, price was right, I had it given to me by Bubba Jnr. I didn't know whether to smile or cry when he gave it to me and I first saw it
