No.1 Mk. III* Question for the pros.

jibjedi

jibjedi

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I have my eye on a 1941 Lithgow Lee-Enfield at a local gunsmiths and he pointed out to me that the front banding on the stock is made of copper. He claims that this isn't very common, and he has only ever seen brass or steel before.

Is there any significance to this copper band?

Any insight on this would be really appreciated :)
 
jibjedi said:
I have my eye on a 1941 Lithgow Lee-Enfield at a local gunsmiths and he pointed out to me that the front banding on the stock is made of copper. He claims that this isn't very common, and he has only ever seen brass or steel before.

Is there any significance to this copper band?

Any insight on this would be really appreciated :)
Click to expand...

Yeah, I had one on my Lithgow too. It's brass I believe. They look nice shined up! They are quite correct on a Lithgow.

Mine was I believe marked OA for Orange Arsenal.
 
Are you talking about the hinged lower band? The one with the sling swivel on it? Should be blackened brass (painted black really) - most if not all WWII Auzzie SMLE's had them IIRC. Some folks shine them up for show, but its not as issued. Common on WWII dated Lithgow SMLE's. $8 part at a US parts source. All the ones I've seen are OA marked.
 
Are you talking about the hinged lower band? The one with the sling swivel on it?
Click to expand...

Yes its the one with the sling swivel. The butt plate is clearly brass, and I am pretty sure the band is a different metal.

Anyway, thanks for the input. Just wanted to make sure it wasnt a negative aspect.

This particular rifle would at best be considered in 'good' condition. All the numbers are matching and comes with the proper model bayonet. He has it marked at $450.
I am looking to get into my first Lee-Enfield. Would this be a reasonable price to get into one?
 
Well, shined up may not be correct, but it sure looks pretty on my rifle;)

If someone in the future wants to blacken it after I am gone, that's up to them. (but I plan on hanging around for quite a while):D
 
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