19577011

A Lithgow grenade firing rifle, copper wire bindings and all are rarer than their British / Indian counterparts. What makes this one even more special is the marked bolt preventing the wood from splitting, indicating MA and the broad arrow, therefore Lithgow purpose built from army order. This rifle is a No. 1 MkIII*,  manufactured 1945 and appears to be converted to GF almost immediately. The item has most likely seen service in Korea as the chips behind the sight indicate recoil and use. Barrel in good condition. For anyone with a cup discharger (Mills perhaps), would make a great item.

Markings:

Butt

-MAO SMLE (Orange factory)

- III* HV (model, sighted for high velocity)

-1945

- Crown over 36 over L (inspection mark,)

Breach

- Crown over L over cross flags over P (Proof mark) 

- OA VII (later WWII Lithgow acceptance mark)

S/N bolt and breach match. The bolt has a second number under bolt lever which matches rear face of receiver.

Nose cap has different S/N,  due to conversion to cup discharging / grenade firing function.

Ian Skennerton's book The British Service Lee, Chapter 8 (Australian Production) p228 quotes "Some of the grenade launching rifles were built up from new arms, rather than downgraded, E.Y. models or reserve rifles.

Can send more photos upon request

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