What to do with No1 Mk3 .410

[fstornj]

I have had a SMLE No1 Mk3 for years and now I need some opinions. I love the look of the as issued rifle, but at some point in time the barrel was shot out of mine and sent to India, stock was cut down and pieced back together and now I have an LE shotgun

So here's the catch, it's numbers matching barrel, receiver, rear sight and bolt. The steel is in pretty decent shape for a 92 year old weapon and the action is tight like it should be. But the wood is a mishmash, it needs all hoops and front plate, new trigger and clip and maybe a few more things.

Do I leave it the way it is (not terrible looking and functional) find all the wood and accessories and "resto" it or buy a composite one piece stock and throw my guts in? Either way, I want an original 1/3 in .303 for my collection so that's on the Christmas list

Not sure if it's a desireable piece but I paid nothing for it a long time ago and it's my second Enfield, my old mans "as issued" No5 has been keeping it company

 

[300Spartans]

If you don't want it, put it on the EE. It will sell to someone who is looking for it.

 

[fstornj]

I am going to keep it, just want to know if parts are still somewhat available to put it back to issue and if it's really worth it.

 

[Nabs]

If she was sporterized, the chamber may have been modified to accept commerical .410 shotgun shells. That would make her easier to shoot and enjoy in the short run.

 

[fstornj]

Yes it does take north american .410 shells

 

[louthepou]

It's possible to find all the No1Mk3 parts to bring it back to its military configuration.

Lou

 

[scott585]

it wont feed from a mag though, they often had a wood plug in the mag well, single shot only

 

[Riflechair]

get it chamber cast before you do anything. On the cheap? Put a plug in the bore and use melted crayola crayons. Or trade me for it. I've always wanted to fart around with one of these rifles but never had the opportunity.

 

[mg4201]

turn some bush chickens into dinner

 

[kjohn]

I have one that is chambered for 3". We have a "blast" making up various loads using lead balls. It is at least minute of barn with two balls!! Being a rifle receiver, they are not as persnickety about pressure.

I have 444 Marlin brass to try out, as well as some proper brass for .410, as well as different paper and plastic hulls to play with. If I ever get around to doing some actual testing, I'll be right up with all the big wig gun writers.

 

[Power Pill]

shoot 410 slugs with it

or use shot and shoot squirrels