Question about Enfields

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I currently own a sporterized No1 mk3 which i paid $90 for, but ive been wanting to get an original, unsporterized one. I went to a local gun show and everyone was asking $300 + for an original enfield and i remeber seeing the same ones in gun shops for $150. The only difference i noticed is the guys at the gun show refered to them as "longbranch".

so my question is...whats so special about "longbranch" enfields and why would they be worth more than double the other rifles of the same era?
 
Yes, they have increased in price dramatically over the past ten years. I blame this here new-fangled interweb thing, because now everyone can easily make queries and think"Hmmm, I'd like to own an old historically significant rifle". Then, it has become easier for sales to be made with electronic postings, people have FINALLY realized that they ain't making anymore....

I bought a complete Longbranch No4MkI* for $45 in 1997. My wife bought one that was complete metal but no wood for $25 two years later.

Those days are long gone. I'm pretty sure that with the condition of mine, I could sell it for 10 times what I paid for it - But I love her, and she will stay!

I paid ~$450 for my last Lee Enfield (a No.5) a year ago.

Betcha can't buy just one!

Neal
 
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As mentioned, Longbranch is special here in Canada because it was made here. The Savage is much more collectible for the Yanks because it was made in the US. Prices for both Savage and Longbranch Enfields will reflect this.

Berger
 
yes prices have gone up a lot over the past few years. Keep looking but not too many bargins out there any more.

I remember buying an arm load for $25 ea bubba No1 and No4 not too many years back. I have lots of projects.
 
"...remember seeing the same..." I remember seeing them, in good condition, for $50 in gun shops, long ago.
The Canadian Arsenals - Longbranch Plant was at Dixie Rd. and Lakeshore Rd. in what is now Mississauga, Ont. Trudeau closed it in 1975 when the C1A1 production ended. All the machinery was sold off. The building(surprisingly small) was used by Canada Post for a while and torn down several years ago.
Of all the places the rifle was manufactured, post-war Longbranch No.4's were the best. It's a toss up whether Savage or Longbranch, wartime produced rifles, were better. Both are very well made. However, like Berger says, a Longbranch is special because it's Canadian made.
 
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