Hello folks.
With the War & Peace Show looking increasingly unlikely this year, I decided to dip into my savings and buy something online instead (the virus hasn't figured out how to travel through the internet yet, but I'm sure it's only a matter of time at this rate).
This is the first WWI firearm I have ever owned - and hopefully not the last. I've wanted an example of the iconic 'Smelly' rifle for quite some time, and this one ticks all my boxes and then some. The rifle is dated to 1915, manufactured by the Royal Small Arms Factory, Enfield. It has its original woodwork, and the bolt matches the receiver. As a Mk III, it retains its magazine cutoff plate. This feature was eliminated in the Mk III*, to simplify the manufacturing process. It has not been refurbished or refinished, as far as I can tell. It was also supposed to come with a bayonet, but never mind.
The real gem in this rifle's crown is the butt disc, which is regimentally marked to 7th Battalion of the East Kent Regiment, known colloquially as 'the Buffs'. It was formerly one of the oldest regiments in the British Army, with a history that can be traced back to 1572. It was amalgamated with the Queen's Own Royal West Kent Regiment in 1961, and from there underwent further amalgamations until finally ending up in its modern form, the Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment.
This rifle is, of course, deactivated. I will not go into specifics as to the deactivation process, but suffice to say, it retains a fully functioning action, and can be 'cocked and clicked'.
I can see why these rifles are so popular with collectors. They really are a thing of beauty, both cosmetically and functionally!
Regards, B.B.
Bookmarks