Deactivated WW1 London Small Arms SMLE dated 1913

This is a fascinating First World War Lee Enfield MKIII rifle. Dated 1913, it was made by London Small Arms (L.S.A.) who only used serial number letter prefixes K & L from 1907 to 1915. This rifle is number L49452 and has its original barrel with matching rear sight. LSA's production of the SMLE was significantly lower and slower than Enfield or BSA due to limited factory space, and for this reason they only made 430,000 MKIII & MKIII* rifles from 1903 to 1918. In comparision BSA made 435,212 in 1916 along!!! Stamped on the underside of the woodwork are the initials ACF ARG - Army Cadet Force, Argyll and the corresponding DP initials for Drill Purpose. The stock band markings "RIF /I\ 1927 indicate that this rifle was also in service with Commonwealth forces whilst in India in 1927. A well travelled rifle that served in both world wars, the inter war period and was used to train cadets. It’s safe to say that this rifle has served its country!!! Deactivated with a working action.

 

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