Lee Enfields in 303 British... Great Hunting Rifles

[@zazale1]

About 60 years ago, I went to buy a .22 Cooey. I was a few dollars short, so I got a MkIII, and a bag of surplus ammo. It knocked me backwards every time I fired it, but I learned to shoot it well. Still have it. I don't think they would sell one to a 10 year old anymore.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I don't think they would sell the ammo to a 10 year old now! LOL Times have certainly changed since then.

[@theangrycanuck8331]

Lol good ol Cooey's. To think at one point they cost more than the Enfield. Looking at a Model 60 hopefully this weekend 😍

[@kootnygreen]

I've got a single shot Cooey. Dad found on the side of a creek in early 70's and the stock was rotted so of course he made a new one. Still gettin grouse with her. Also have the 303 British and use every hunting season, iron sites, and was my Grandfathers in the 40's Saskatchewan, then my dads then my brother then me.

[@cecilsabourin9462]

Have a single shot 12 guage Cooey and love it also currently , a 1944 -303 ,love it also ,perfect egodinamics , up ,on sight , shoot -5 seconds at most ,never missed . And beautiful mechanicly

[@uncleshagnasty]

I shot a No 4 at thirteen . Continued to shoot them 5 years. Had the same rifle issued for contest for five years. A 1943 no 4 made by Enfield . The stock was multi-coloured due to combat service and replacement. You can fire one aimed round a secound, but recharging costs the time and has to be perfect. Your charger has to be perfect. Your stacking has to be perfect. Your W spring has to be perfect. Get that right, and it's fast and accurate.

[@Landsersajer]

I am Canadian and I learned to shoot with a lee enfield 303 so it has that sweet spot in my heart even after 30 years of shooting

[@brandonbentley8532]

As a life long mauser 98 fan I can say there is no rifle as smooth and quick as an enfield action!

[@deandwyer860]

I live in Newfoundland, Canada there has been countless number of moose taken with these rifles here. I got my moose two days ago with my No4MK1 with iron sites. Love this rifle....

[@andrewchirgwin4136]

Sir, what a marvelous video, I am an English man and I have shot with a Lee Enfield many years ago, what a wonderful rifle it is. This rifle was the main battle rifle of our country and commonwealth for many years as you say, and it is good to hear some praise for an often forgotten and sometimes underestimated rifle. I thank you for your honest and obvious appreciation of this rifle. Many thanks.

[@AlexM-gx8tt]

It's still being used in some places to this day, I'm in the u.s and had a friend sell me one him and his dad found leaning against a wall in an estate sale that was going to trash everything in the house. The barrel has a bit of rust wear and the stock needs some work but all the mechanical functions are still good to use, I plan on taking wild boar with it this summer as it's ruggedness fits the role I need it for perfectly 👍 great rifles!

[@antonycrisafulli6858]

Mate what an outstanding video ! 100% agree SMLE were the best battle rifles of their day !Tom you have made my night and inspired me to be thankful for what I have and to make the most of it . Thank you on behalf of all us shooters and hunters here in Australia . God bless and good luck for your deer season .

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. And when I make videos like this one it's to remind myself to be thankful for what I have and to make the most of it. It's easy to say that but it seems to be getting tougher and tougher to actually do. And just so you know there's actually a little Australian influence in the things I do. My gun cabinet was built by a late family friend that had duel U.S. and Australian citizenship. He grew up in Australia and served in the Australian Army in Vietnam before moving to the US. He was a true craftsman and a big influence on my approach to woodworking. And a lot of my hand tools came from him. Bob would get a kick out of knowing someone from Australia was watching a video made here!

[@davidbryce6970]

I had a 25/303 SMLE Sporter, one of many Australian 303 wildcats back in the early 1970's. Fitted with a Zero bridge mount and scope it was an excellent rifle and cartridge combination.

[@dalanwanbdiska6542]

If you got a 303 you got a gem of a gun and a keeper. Always keep them . I love 303 british. 303 british forever.

[@ronws2007]

Amen, twin brother from another mother in the Down Under. Tom always has the history of a piece such as this and what is valuable about it.

[@imallwayshappy]

Were are you from (state wpuld love to bring my 303 to you to look at.​@@TomRiverSimpleLiving

[@nomansland4811]

This was my first rifle as an adult. $45 at a pawn shop while in the service. Sold it when I went overseas. I wish I still had it.

[@KernowekTim]

Such a pure joy to listen to a man that definitely knows his guns, from heel of butt to exit of muzzle. No hype or jargon, simply the facts,; historically, engineering wise, and resultant performance and reliability levels. Wonderful. Wish I'd found this channel when it first began! Subscribed with great pleasure. Thank you sir, I appreciate it. God bless.

[@HaurakiVet]

When I took up hunting here in NZ as a very young man my first rifle, like virtually all of my mates' was a cut down, sportorised ex army short magazine lee enfield (SMLE). It was cheap, reliable and tough as boots. Ammo was super inexpensive, military surplus bought by the drum and upgraded with a pair of side-cutters used to nip the tip off for expansion purposes. The really fancy boys had Monte Carlo stocks fitted but most of us, initially at least, stuck with the original stock.and iron sights and many a deer was taken with these "smellies". It is interesting to see examples of these appearing quite regularly on firearms auction sites as grand-dad passes on and the old cupboards are cleared out of the playthings of his youth, some turn up on local ranges and it is good to see another generation having a go on these old reliables even if only to see if they work.

[@lenraby5920]

The 303 and M1 defiantly the best rifles during WW2, my Dad said the 303 saved his life many times along with the Gurkhas he was with. He was a dispatch rider all through WW2 and mentioned the 303 replaced his Sten gun and that alone reduced the risk of being shot as bumpy roads (no roads mostly) caused his Sten to fire occasionally. Incidentally he lied like many and entered the war aged 17 being an orphan he at least got to eat regularly he said and already being able to ride a motorcycle sealed the deal.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

That had to be some adventure for a 17 year old! When my grandfather joined the Army he said they didn't have a uniform with a small enough waste to fit him but that it didn't take long for him to grow into his uniform getting 3 meals a day. He thought the Army was greatest thing ever. He got 3 meals a day and boots. Those were very different times.

[@gragrn]

Thank you for calling it a Lee Enfield, as opposed to Enfield, and thank you for pronouncing Lithgow correctly. My dad was an Australian soldier from 1946 to 1976 and used and loved the Lee Enfield. He said it was soldier proof, which means you couldn't break it if you tried. I owned one too at one time, a 1918 BSA that still shot like brand new. Wish I never sold it! Thanks again Tom!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

That's got to be the first time I've ever been credited for pronouncing anything right! LOL I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@gradyhernandez4699]

My first deer was taken by a 303 mk3

[@jamesholt5963]

A very, very insightful chat Tom. You made so many great points. Too many of us want the best-est. But in the real world... You nailed it.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks James I appreciate that.

[@jerrystacey5038]

Awesome video. Truly a great rifle. The #4 ‘s were still in service with the Canadian Rangers until about 2016.

[@randallseverini8688]

American retired Infantry. A buddy I served with many time lives close. We both have Lee-Enfields in military and sporter form and shoot them regularly and hunt with them occasionally. We load for 303 Brit. Needless to say, we agree with you and have a great deal of respect and trust in both Lee-Enfield and the 303 cartridge. Its the perfect zombie apocalypse rifle!

[@johnh2309]

You sir are a great story teller. Loved the video. One small observation, the designer was a Scot not an American (James Paris Lee born in Hawick Scotland), emigrated to Canada at the age of 5. I have a mark 4 'Sniper' and I am going to fit a scope to it, and use it. No point having it to clean and look at. I will use it on deer and kangaroos. Have been procrastinating, but you convinced me. Ammo used to be hard to get, but it is becoming more available in Australia. Thank you.

[@billbutler6886]

When Lee tried to sell his design to the U.S.army they voted it down he was living in the U.S.

[@deaddocreallydeaddoc5244]

When I was a kid in the 1960s, my uncle bought a surplus SMLE from Sears, in military configuration. I never forgot how much he bragged about it, and he was a U.S. Korean War Vet. One item I became aware of is that all of the SMLEs imported to the U.S. were inspected and approved as safe for sale in the U.S. By sheer dumb luck, I bought a sporterized one from an acquaintance in 1994 for $100. It's an Ishapore and has a great bore. I fitted it with a period scope and had the stock sized for me and a nice pad added. It's a great rifle. Apparently, there was a company that was sporterizing these rifles for retail sale back in the day. But this is not the end of my story. I found a very nice Lithgow MKlll in full military configuration, also with a great bore in 2000 at a gun show for $80. I later found the bayonet for it. People did not care about these rifles. However, since the 1990s and the rise of the internet, this has changed somewhat. I did not know about the headspace issues, so this video is great. I don't believe this is my problem as I luckily acquired fairly fresh ones. But these rifles deserve a lot of praise. It's so nice to see a "Good Ol' Boy" who not only appreciates them but has taken the time to know them through and through.

[@PastorRob77]

Thank you, Tom. I have a #4 MK1 as well. My Mom bought it for my Dad when they were first married. I understand she bought it at a Army/Navy surplus store for $25. This was 1959. It was my Dad's primary deer rifle and now it's my deer rifle. Straight shooter and plenty powerful enough. Now I want to get a scope mount for it; still has the peep sight.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Your mom cerainly had great taste in rifles! And I can't blame you for wanting a scope. The peep sights are great but a scope sure makes those longer shots easier.

[@frankmarson2425]

Artic Fox do a no drill mount

[@loyddussaultsr4181]

Got my 303 when I was 15 my mom brought me to the local army navy store and if I remember it was 25 dollars and they had crates of them I'm 77 now and I still have the rifle but it just sits in the rack now a days. It's one damn good shooting rifle that's my opinion and I'm sticking to it

[@stefantree3160]

Hey mate . Really enjoyed this video. Thank you for mentioning the commonwealth and Australian input especially the Lithgow SMLEs. They’ve got a solid following here in Aus.

[@OMGWUNSIU]

I thought the government took all your guns? What’s the real story?

[@joshuastewart1204]

I live in Canada. I got a .303 for my 16th birthday. I’ve bagged some trophy bull moose, and my .303 hasn’t let me down. I stand by it

[@davidfriesen9512]

Thank you for telling about unscrewing the bolt end and about the different end pieces. I didn’t know that.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Glad to help

[@danalim9670]

I believe Nicholas Brewer borrowed that innovation when he designed the Savage Model 10👍

[@michaelbenjmitchell1]

Did you know the Lee Enfield also had replaceable front sights in different sizes as well to improve accuracy.

[@allenlarabie8854]

Thanks for your honesty. Great podcast. From Northeastern Ontario Canada 🇨🇦 l love my 303 British N.#4 MK 1 1941

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyex it. And you have an early No4 there, nice. Mine is a 1944.

[@keithfinnell7505]

I only found your post's tonight and I am so very thankful that I found it. I've watched several of your post's and I love them! Especially this one on the Lee Enfield 303 British. I own 3 Enfields and I love them. They are excellent Firearms! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience!!! I will be a regular on your site!!! God Bless and stay safe! Keith

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks Keith and I have to say you have 3 very fine rifles.

[@AdmV0rl0n]

Splendid video. The British faced a foe in South Africa - which actually had many attributes of which you spoke about. The Boer were hunters, and knew the land and were formidable opponents who could shoot and were marksmen. For the time, the British who probably had a conservative approach historically, took on board serious lessons. This involved the rifle and its usage. And by change I really mean change. IIRC they ensured every soldier could shoot. They taught the method of the mad minute. Each solider got 200 rounds a year shooting, which IIRC was more than twice what anyone else did. The small professional Army (was not conscripted) in 1914 was sent to France. And being small - they gained a name care of.. some interesting history and propaganda as "A CONTEMPTIBLE LITTLE ARMY". This very small army fought a rearguard action in France, and the Germans hit them with everything. The Germans reported back - as Tom mentioned - That the British 'Had machine guns' due to the rate of fire the Germans were on the end of. Like many times in Britain's history, we make a story out of a defeat. That Tiny army fought for days in a shattering rearguard action that fundamentally destroyed it. Its written as the battle of Mons - or as the great retreat. The men who survived went on to call themselves 'contemptables', or 'the old contemptables' and many went on to train the new generation who paid the greatest price in Britain's history. The Rifle ? One might say that the west and democracy was built on it. Look at todays globe and .. .for the sake of an argument (and when I say this, dear Americans, do not take this in any way as downplaying your absolutely monumental, enormous, gigantic contribution to this) that it was foundationally laid by the Lee Enfield. From Canada, To New Zealand. When I look at that rifle, I see all the heroism in the history. But the sorrow of the Somme. The unbreakable Canadians of the Vimy ridge, The New Zealanders who fought on Crete who lost, but broke Hitlers air arm, and the Australians who fought in Tobruk, and beyond. If you own one of these guns, cherish it. Keep it. You may not know its story, but what a story it may hold. One last note. In Britain, we largely hake it very hard for citizens to have weapons. So we generally don't get the chance to have these guns. If you own one, you lucky devils, may it serve you as well as it served us, and may you enjoy it in peaceful times that it helped provide :)

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thank you very much for that. And have no doubt I cherish mine!

[@bobbyb.1743]

I just pulled my g-father’s weapon out of my safe, Australian MA Lithgow SMLE III* 1942. Beautiful weapon that he had sporterized w/ scope, but also retains the original sights. I must get some newer ammo and get out on the range w/ it. Would love to know more about the history of this individual gun. Thank you for your most informative video!

[@Seshins]

Great rifles and still very popular hear in New Zealand. I also really like your mindset and message about focusing on the strengths of what you have - aspiring for the best gear is all well and good, but if you appreciate and understand the firearms and gear you do have, you'll still get the best out of them. Sub.d

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks

[@kentowens2179]

I have a No.4 Mk1 that I've had since I was 15 years old, and I'm 66 now. They're reliable, accurate, day in and day out, and have enough power to get the job done. I no longer hunt, but took many deer with a .303 back in the day.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Sadly a lot of people today are never going to know just what great hunting rifles these really are.

[@mysty0]

Longbranch Canadian No.4 Mk1.. I want one so bad.. I personally consider it the finest of them. I have a mint No.1 Mk3 Lithgow that I have never fired personally. Picked it up a couple years back for what I call a steal. Many laughed at me because they can be bought so cheap, I paid $600 Australian, but I challenged them to find me a Mint example and show me the price and they stopped laughing. Finding such examples are extremely rare these days with the matching numbers showing the Lithgow Armory had seen to its accuracy and stamped all the parts. So proud to own it as an Australian and while one day Im sure I will fire it. as it has been fired by the Armory, I will be doing my utmost to keep this relic in its original condition. Should add I dont fire it because it has the Australian Coachwood, which while it served fine in its day that was a long time ago. Mine appears well and still presents nicely with original oil showing its never dried, but out of concern for the original Coachwood I will move it into a replacable Slazenger/Sportco stock to enjoy it and preserve the original matching numbers. A crack in the stock would devastate me and much of the historical value of the piece. It more than likely would fire just fine, but I have seen many of these variants cracked at the grip.

[@nealdaugherty7110]

I have a Parker Hale SMLE that shoots very well! I love it! Thank you for the positive view of the 303's.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm beginning to get really jealous of you guys with a Parker Hale. I've been keeping an eye out for one for a lot of years now, but congratulations on yours. Those are really nice, and I believe very underappreciated, rifles.

[@brucec2635]

Great show. Bought a 303 in 2004 for $75, manufacture 1942, factory recondition in 1949. I just cleaned and shot if for ten years until my son asked my why all the other dads posted pictures of the deer they harvested. I was put on notice. I started serious time at our home range, I did not mount a scope. Using Remington cor-lokt 180 grain took first deer. Shot distance measured 93 yards. Hit just above shoulder and took her airborn a foot and she landed dead. Love the Enfield.

[@barrygoodwill5746]

have been shooting 303s for over 60 years, military training at school when 12 years old, they were awesome in good hands. Have harvested a lot of deer in New Zealand....

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

And mine has harvested a lot of deer in the U.S. It has never let me down.

[@co9221]

This man is incredibly easy to listen to. Very informative video and easy watching, thank you for this video brother! Definitely will be checking out more.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks, I appreciate that.

[@plymouth5714]

Really enjoyed your video, your regard for our greatest battle rifle came through time and again! As a Brit though, just two comments - James Paris Lee may have ended up as 'American' but he was born in Scotland before emigrating to Canada so we still regard him as 'one of ours' on this side of the pond! Secondly, sporterising a No4 Enfield should be a criminal offence and sporterising a No1MkIII should be a capital offence! The No1 is the most beautiful battle rifle ever made - how dare anyone steal her sexy wood! Rule Britannia! PS Never knew the Garand inventor was a Canadian! Thanks for that too!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. And don't worry I have become very aware of how many Brits share your view about Lee being a Brit. As for the Enfields being sportorized I have mixed emotions. As I said in the video I couldn't do that to a nice one in it's original military configuration. At the same time countless Lee Enfields that would been viewed as obsolete as military rifles and likely destroyed were turned into sporting rifles and went on to become one of the greatest hunting rifles ever. And many of them are still being used for hunting today. It's as if those that were sporterized didn't just fade away into history but instead went on to create another chapter in the proud history of Lee Enfields rifles. So I do have mixed emotions on that point. I can appreciate and respect those that are original but at the same time I can also appreciate those that were turned into sporters.

[@exmoorfarmer4880]

I live in the UK and a new copy of a No 4 T and a 1915 Smelly/ Looking to invest in a Lee Speed hunting rifle so this is great timing, thank you Tom. The sheer elegance of the Lee Speed with the butter knife bolt and the shotgun thumb safety gets me. I was also born and bred in Birmingham UK and this is where so many of the LS or BSA (Birmingham Small Arms) were made. Plus they are just so pointable. You pick one up and the balance for a 100+ year old rifle is superb. If I et one I will take it wild boar shooting in Europe. Has to be done. Great channel and thanks again.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thank you, and I'm glad you enjoyed it. And I agree about the feel of these rifles. They have a great balance and fit to them.

[@russellking9762]

this cartridge.....303 Enfield.... has taken moose...grizzly bear...up here in Vancouver. How do i know this? I was the one pulling the trigger!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

It has been nice to hear so many like yourself sharing just what a great cartridge it is. Thanks

[@rodgeyd6728]

Up the Colonies 👌

[@savagesambar6344]

where?

[@caryboy2006]

Ok. But where do you buy a 303 now. And what about the ammo.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

@@caryboy2006 They can be found online and at my local gun shop about the only ammo they have in large supply is .303 but it's pricy. But keep in mind what I said about these being old rifles. You never know what you're going to get with an old rifle and it's usually best to look these over in person before buying.

[@cornbreadburgess1950]

Thanks Tom for the sharing , I'm just outside of 60 and you bring a lot to the table for those who tune in, never to old to learn and my pride stoped getting in the way a long time ago ,we enjoy you and your channel thanks again and GODBLESS you and YOURS.

[@steveokon5431]

Good insight Tom, I'm wanting to get a sporterized 303 here I see at my fave shop. It looks really good. Good points you mentioned about headroom.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks, and I've been keeping my eye out for a nice sporterized one in good condition as well. Good luck on yours!

[@edwardmurray2139]

Thank you Tom, outstanding video. I would like to add, if one looks at the position of the bolt handle on the .303 SMLE, one will see it is in line with the rear of the trigger guard. With rifles with front-locking lugs, the bolt handle is in line with the front of the trigger guard. The SMLE's rear locking bolt allowed the bolt handle to be set at the rear of the bolt, which means that the bolt can be cycled without the shooter taking the butt out of the shoulder, which of course makes for much faster shooting - most people need to remove the butt from their shoulder when cycling the bolt of a front-locking bolt.

[@winstonchurchill6506]

I remember in the late 1980s my grandad telling me about the snipering he did in the jungle in ww2.all head shots they never put there heads back up he said happy memories.happy christmas to you from the uk...

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Those rifles went through a lot, and so did the men using them. And merry Christmas to you as well.

[@raymondwilliamblack]

my wife's grandfather was a Sniper (marksman to we British soldiers as "Sniper" was used as an insult) and taught me much of his fieldcraft including the fact that the First Aim Sight was formed from 2 sewing needles and a piece of thread taken from a repair kit known throughout the army as a "housewife".

[@robjennings9143]

😂😂😂🇬🇧👊🏼

[@gscotty311]

Workin' on gathering the funds for an M1 from CMP. Have always admired the Lee Enfield's. Beautiful rifles.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

And I hope to add an M1 to my collection one day but that's going to be off in the future.

[@morpheusgreene2704]

how do i join the CMP, i cant figure it out

[@gscotty311]

@@morpheusgreene2704 For the benefit of an opportunity to buy a Garand from them or just to join for shooting competition etc? You don’t have to join to buy a Garand. You follow certain criteria they specify ie concealed carry permit and join a pre-approved club…I joined the Garand Collectors Association to fill that requirement. The rest is a PITA set of paper work that you have to do correctly or they’ll refuse sale until it’s fixed. My dumbass didn’t know what a “notary public” was so that part slowed my order down lol. It’s worth it in the end to buy from them at their price.

[@morpheusgreene2704]

@@gscotty311 im actually interested in all of it, but i dont know of any CMP clubs in western new york, would an army recruiter be able to point me in a better direction or something? im not sure how to even find these CMP places

[@1969Risky]

Tom, this is a great video of your collection of Lee-Enfields. What surprised me even more is that you like them (which is odd for an American to say). I'm glad that you still use them & I hope down the track that you get to see your No. 4 Mk I* back to how it was. My father bought for me for my 8th birthday a 1924 Lithgow No. 1 Short Magazine Lee-Enfield Mk III*. It missed out on The Great War & when my father bought it for me it was in great condition. My father bought for himself a 1942 ROF Fazakerley No. 4 Mk I (T) Sniper which he & my mum used (Dad used it more than her as mum was into pistol shooting back in the day). Where I grew up the local rifle/pistol range was only a couple of blocks from my house & dad ensured a got a good education on firearms. When I was a kid, I originally thought Dad's No. 4 Mk I (T) was sporterized as it had the telescopic sights & cheek butt but it was left as it was. Nearly every Saturday we as a family were on the range. During the summers, we go to my dad's brothers property where we would hunt & also do pest control on other farms. The Lee-Enfield's were punished with mud, dust, dirt & rain & worked extremely well. As Australia is a tough environment, many farmers had Lee-Enfield's & they were always left in military form. When I was 13, I joined the Australian Army Cadets & our rifles were the Lithgow No. 1 MkIII* which were also used when we went to the range. When I finished high school, I joined up with the police force & worked in forensics where we had the ballistics & armoury attached to our unit. We were forever firing various weapons. The Lee-Enfield as you said has flaws but can also be a great rifle. I left the police force after a number of years when our gun rules changed & we could not have our firearms anymore. It was upsetting to me to surrender our firearms due to new legislation as they were a fond part of my childhood. I surrendered both our Lee-Enfields to the armoury unit where they are still on display so I know they're in a good home. Us Aussies are good riflemen & the No. 1 MkIII* that were issued to our troops were well used & never changed. The Lithgow Arsenal stopped producing them in 1955 but still had tons of them in their inventory. We were still using them even when the L1A1 SLR & M16A1 came into service in the mid 1960's which says a lot about the Lee-Enfield family of rifles.

[@stephensmith6707]

I like your style Tom, particularly your sense of humour, thanks for this video.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jakecalderburby]

Just received my fathers 303 this weekend. Fantastic video for me to really dive in and get soem education on this beautiful piece. Thank you!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Congrates on getting one fine rifle Jake!

[@Erniethomas43]

Man! ...are you wise! I've used smle's extensively in my youth...90's - early 2000's ...many a moose here in Canada. Great work👍

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks 👍

[@vernonlemoignan1392]

Lee enfeilds were still used by the canadian rangers in the north until about 5-10 years ago. Their ruggedness was proven in the trenches during WW1 and their enduring design had them carried on shore on d day by Canadians and British on three of the five beaches of normandy. They had generous chamber sizes so ammo covered in mud would still chamber and eject and they were simple in the traditional British utilitarian style. I love them and their rich history going back to black powder days. Thanks for your great historically knowledgeable videos bringing the 303 to more people outside the commonwealth. It can be tough for people unfamiliar with this rifle to understand why it was used so long to great effect, but you described the reasons and circumstances perfectly.

[@farmerned6]

the saying goes Germany USA and Britain fought in WW1 Germany brought a hunting rifle USA brought a target rifle Only Britain brought a BATTLE Rifle

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I've heard that saying many times over the years, and I have yet to hear anyone deny it!

[@adamsandler9078]

The USA was barely in the First World War.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

@@adamsandler9078 The USA was in it enough to loos 53,000 men which was only 8,500 less than Australia and 3,000 less than Canada. Personally I'm glad the USA wasn't in it more.

[@adamsandler9078]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving cool

[@MrTangolizard]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving yes but that was more to do with u.s high command not listening to France and the U.K. in redf to tactics more that the number of battles they were in

[@Deanne-w7n]

As a proud Aussie it is refreshing to see someone in the U.S singing the praises of the SMLE and .303 British.i watch many youtube videos out of the U.S where they are totally disreagarded in their reviews, had to stop watching one recently, where whilst everyone is entitled to their own opinion, this Joker was sugesting the cacarno was the best battle rifle made,( never fired ond only dropped once) whilst the Enfield never got a look in. Having owned and shot both if i had to go into battle i know which one i would want to take. Another guy was showing one where the magazine keeped dropping out, dont go into a review with a broken weopon. no providence but i would suggest one of the most manufactured battle rifles produced, i am not saying it was the best, but certainly up there with the best. still hunting with mine, took a deer and wild pig with it just last week, so thank you

[@donaldanderson3249]

I've got my grandfather's #1-mark 3 and love it

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Then you have one mighty fine rifle there.

[@terencegamble4548]

Tom, lots of wisdom in this video. Parker Hale in Birmingham (UK) sporterised surplus Lee Enfields as well as produced target versions for many years. However, you don't see many for sale in UK gun shops now. Henry Krank also based here in the UK still offers original rifles in their various models. It's a real pleasure to know that these old rifles still have something practical to offer after all these decades of use. Thanks for the video.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. I started deer hunting when I was 8 years old. Since then I've tried a lot of different rifles some new and some old but I have yet to find a better hunting rifle than a Lee Enfield in 303 British. I have found rifles and cartridges as good as but none better. So I really enjoyed making this video. Someone asked me to talk about rare rifles in the past that I regret not getting. The very first rifle I thought about was a gorgeous sporterised Parker Hale that I saw at a gun show. I was young then and just couldn't afford it but I still regret not being able to get that rifle 30 plus years later. I haven't seen one locally since then but one day!

[@wasicong]

Thank you so much Tom. Great perspective and informative.!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@barneywaggles]

Tom...I just learned a LOT! I was never an expert on ANY military rifles. Good for you! Lot's of history!!! Thank you!

[@theoraclerules5056]

I have also since heard that the Lee Enfield .303 Caliber, Mk 5 Carbine is a very good hunting/shooting option for hunters or field-sports enthusiasts too! If you are fortunate to be able to get hold of one, that is!

[@HarryFlashmanVC]

Great video Tom, have a sub. I live in the UK and own a Mk4 which I shoot regularly at my local full bore rifle club. I've only ever shot current or previous British service firearms and mostly .303.

[@paulharcombe1661]

My dad was in the British Army from '56, while serving in Aden a year or so later they started replacing them with the SLR. He said there were hardened senior NCOs with chests full of medals that had carried the Lee-Enfield through WW2 and Korea with tears in their eyes as they were having them taken away. The soldiers hated the new rifle.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I can't even imagine what that would have been like for them. I really can't.

[@paulharcombe1661]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving he got emotional talking about it to me years later, it made a big impression on him as a young soldier. The drill all had to change too because of the weight and size of it, which did cause some amusement too tho haha

[@tonyb1223]

Soldiers always hate getting new rifles as they are so use to the one they have, but the L1A1 SLR was a very loved rifle even up to its demise in the early 1990's.

[@piobmhor8529]

I used a No.4 in it’s full military configuration (never sporterized) with the original iron sights for deer hunting for years. I didn’t really know any difference, and put my fair share of venison on the table during that time. In my 50s, I borrowed a friend’s Savage 99 with a Leopold scope which was significantly lighter, and still managed to bring down a buck just like my trusty old Lee Enfield. Although the Enfield has now been relegated to the status of a range toy, I still like to take her out on occasion.

[@tykellerman6384]

Probably the best explanation of the Lee thanks 🤠👍

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks!

[@JF-xq6fr]

Had an Ishapore 2A in 7.62x51 that was a tack driver, with the great solid feel of an SMLE. Still have a No4 MKII that I unwrapped from its original factory 'gauze', brand new and perfect as when made in 1954. Dang good shooter, beautiful to look at, and a joy to own.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I've watched a couple of the unwrapping videos of mint Lee Enfields and I got goose bumps just from watching it. That had to be a proud moment when you unwrapped that one? There's just nothing quite like having to clean cosmoline off a rifle. And I've always wondered how the 7.62 Lee Enfields shot. That's good to know that they have that sort of accuracy potential.

[@steven.ghodgson765]

As a Brit, i could listen to him all day - Great video - Thanks

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thank You, and I'm glad you don't mind the Southern accent!

[@kiwinewz2042]

Interesting video. Stepfather WW2 vet. He brought Military Surplus a 303 Enfield Sniper Rifle boxed. All attachments etc. Modified it for dense bush. He Worked as a deer culler for NZ Government up until early 60s. Secondary income for his farm. Laughed when you mentioned the unsupported waver 2 stage trigger. We had a lot of ammunition.

[@jeremyjames83]

I have been harvesting deer for years with a 303. Great rifles

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I couldn't agree more.

[@peterwood3108]

Its a shame that us humans are doing no good, on this world, that includes murdering animals for sport, or unhealthy food. No good will come of it. How would you feel, if i shot you?

[@Bruce-vq7ni]

@@peterwood3108 I couldn't agree more - And it needed saying. But some folks just don't get it.

[@peterwood3108]

@@Bruce-vq7ni Hello, thank you, for taking the time to reply. Im not keen, on killing animals, or hurting them, for meat or sport. I wounder if the tables were turned, how those killing innocent creatures, were in turn hunted and skinned? Or the butchers, seeing there children eaten?

[@douglasherron7534]

@@peterwood3108 If you don't like it, don't do it. Just don't tell other people how to live their lives - as they are not telling you how to live yours. As for being unhealthy, most game meat is much more healthy than farmed meat - particularly corn-fed beef - as it is much leaner.

[@alexsandersmith1880]

Tom I had a MKV with walnut stock , it was hand picked by an employee of S.I.R. in 1985 after I purchased one in fair condition that when the bolt handle was touched would fly back. Needles to say the hand picked rifle was stiff on cocking, I don't think it was issued. I didn't want to destroy the historicity of the gun by drilling and tapping for a scope. Good news there was a scope mount made for Enfield's that required no drilling. It worked by removing the peep sight and an Allen key put tension on the stripper clip groove for the scope mount. Not sure if you heard of it..it was almost 40 years ago . Great channel and info keep up the good work!

[@greenman7126]

I have a No4 mk2, brilliant gun. I had the No4 when I was a cadet many years ago. This one has open target sights, so even with my older eyes, if I do my part I can shoot her accurately. Nice video. Thanks.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

And thank you.

[@darthnevik5505]

Keep it iron sighted as well I have a British 1954 no4 mk2. I’ll hunt with the full military stock.

[@greenman7126]

@@darthnevik5505 I intend to its a great gun.

[@brianperry]

The one and only time I got to shoot a Lee Enfield was when in the Sea cadets..(14 years old in UK).. we regally shot BSA martini action .22 in a local range but one evening were driven to a local Amy garrison range to shoot the Lee Enfield. We already used deactivated rifles for church parade and such, complete with the long bayonet. The Amy instructor showed us how the rifle worked , safety catch, cycling the action, etc. We lay prone on a thin mattress and fired and reloaded one round at a time. we didn't use the stripper clips.... My memory was the 'kick' which was substantial when only fourteen. My marksmanship was nothing to write home about, however, that evening I got to shoot the most famous of British military rifles....

[@hammerheadms]

I always wanted to get my hands on a vintage Lee Enfield battle rifle.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I still keep my eye out for a nice conversion rifle but they are hard to find these days. And if I were a collector I would definitely have a couple in their military configuration.

[@brandondeneen8343]

I just got handed down a 1917 lee enfield battle rifle thing looks just like the one in the video! Shot it about 8 times already and damn I love it! My grandpa used it for deer hunting for years and he got it back in the Korean War! Truly love and appreciate the gun!!!! Can’t wait to get a deer with it!!!! Thank you for the video and the great info!!!!!!

[@hammerheadms]

@@brandondeneen8343 I have heard of more than a few people who had Lee Enfields for their primary hunting rifle. I guess they were pretty popular in the 70's and 80's because they were cheap and abundant. .303 British is an outstanding hunting cartridge. Best of luck, and I hope you get one.

[@nathanadrian7797]

@@hammerheadms You can still find cheap .303's, although they are getting harder to find. Since 2010 I have bought 2 for $50 a piece, and I have seen many for $400 or less. In original unmolested condition the prices start at about $700.

[@hammerheadms]

@@nathanadrian7797 where did you find yours? I'm never quite sure about internet sales, like Gun Broker for example. Just seems like pictures don't always do the buyer justice when you are buying antiques.

[@marcgardiner6278]

James Paris Lee, born in Scotland, raised in Canada and emigrated to the U. S.

[@australianmade2659]

I have a 4 and a 5. I love them both and could never sell them. In any single area Enfields are inferior to Mausers and Garands. But as a package they just make sense. I agree that they are the greatest battle rifle ever

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I have yet to try a No5. Maybe one day?

[@rodgeyd6728]

Wouldn't say inferior to the Mauser or Garand , all have pro's and con's but for me , it's the Enfield .303 .

[@Lucerne12]

I'm an Australian and I have two No.1 MkIII Lee Enfields. One is a BSA manufactured in 1908. It was sporterised after WW2 and converted to 303-25 Wild Cat. The other is a Lithgow manufactured (1917) and is in completely original condition with matching numbers. Great rifles still shooting accurately with over 200 years experience between them.

[@bretaki8489]

Excellent video! Just awesome... However I wouldn't exactly say the .303 is an intermediate round. I think it's more of a big game round and it has taken SO many moose in Canada as well as many other of the biggest elk/ caribou/ bear you could possible imagine throughout our provinces . And it does it without issue. But most importantly of all it's incredibly rugged and reliable! Great vid!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

You know how we get into trouble when we "assume" but I was actually refering to its effecrive range as intermediate rather than its capabilities. I recently did a video on cartridges and having talked about it so much in that video I just assumed everyone would know what I meant even though I had no reason to assume that. So thanks for pointing that out. That's a really good reminder for me in the future to pay more attention to the terms I use.

[@Plumcraziness]

@bretaki8489 Yep. From moose, caribou, elk, black bear, grizzlies/brown bears, bison and muskoxen, and even polar bears, the .303 has literally taken down every animal in the wilds of Canada. It can literally handle anything from coyote to the largest game animals in North America, which makes it one of the most versatile rounds out there too in regards to what you can hunt with it.

[@trickedouttech321]

I purchased a stock Enfield 303 in 1990. Broke it down and built a 303 with composite stock, bedded, and scope mount, came with 4 mags. When finished it was a great hunting rifle with a few problems, It only liked full jacket rounds. The gun hated to chamber lead heads I had the same problem with every magazine that it came with. I tried many different brand hunting rounds. But it would only chamber the first 2 - 3 lead heads then would not feed. But with FMJ round never a problem chamber every time. Most places don't let you hunt with full metal jackets. This was in the early 90's. I got lucky and it was about a 1 moa rifle I found a very clean Enfield that must not have seen war.

[@myparceltape1169]

I never thought, till I was told a few days ago that there were such things as guns with a single stage trigger.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

A lot of people are going to disagree with me, but the majority of people would be better off for hunting if they were all 2 stage?

[@jonjackson6470]

Loved your video. Nice sense of humour. Great knowledge of lee Enfield as wall. They’ve been my favourites since 1957. In the service and for many years at bisley after. Thank you. Jacko

[@stevedouglas5443]

It's not really necessary to "sporterise" a military rifle, they shoot just fine as they are.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

But they sure do get heavy after awhile!

[@stevedouglas5443]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving yes they do.

[@SirNC89]

Sporterise diminishes value also.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

@@SirNC89 To a collector yes, but not to a hunter.

[@MrLukealbanese]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving I really like the look of those sporterised Enfields. Very handsome.

[@steveroush8650]

I agree with you and about 6 months ago I found a MK 4 type 2 in carbine. It was marked 1944 ! ❤.

[@seancorker5815]

Thank you - the Lee Enfield got my Grandad through Dunkirk - I wouldn’t be here otherwise.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@Gottaculat]

I've had no training on my Enfield No.4 Mk1*, plus it's my first bolt action rifle. First time I mag-dumped at the range, I put all 10 rounds into a 6" group at 50 yards in 12 seconds flat. The guy next to me sighting in his AR-15 turned and said, "What the hell was that?! Wait, that's a bolt action?!?!?!" These old guns will turn heads; most people aren't used to hearing a bolt action sound off faster than most people shoot semi-autos. The action on mine was definitely blueprinted at some point, because it's smoother and more accurate than it has any right to be, especially since the bolt serial number is mismatched. With my personal reloads, I'm pulling 0.93" groups at 100 yards shooting from a bench vice. Shooting off a sandbag, this thing is nailing 18" plates at 450 yards no problem, and 8" plates at 350 yards no problem, using the milled Mk1 sights. Picked mine up in October of 2020 for a measly $200 at my local gun shop just after they received a batch of guns from an estate sale. Spacer on mine is marked"1." Bore looks like it just left the factory: cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/249798643605962752/874936921351151666/20201011_012359.jpg Best y'all get your hands on one of these rifles before they all dry up. Shoots smoother and faster than some modern bolt actions that will cost you over $2,000, literally 10 times what I paid for mine. That action, though, OMFG... I know I'm forever spoiled by it.

[@thevelointhevale1132]

A quick note - James Paris Lee was not an American ... he later became an American Citizen. Born in Hawick, Scotland, Lee emigrated with his family to Galt, Ontario in Canada in 1836 at age 5. In 1858, James Lee and his wife Caroline Lee (née Chrysler, of the later automotive family) moved to Wisconsin in the US. He spent the bulk of his life growing up in Canada but as with much of Canada would have been steeped in a Scottish upbringing. Carry on mate!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

That was interesting. Thanks for sharing. But now I'm wondering what was going with all of those people coming to the U.S. from Canada and designing the worlds greatest battle rifles.

[@thevelointhevale1132]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving Very likely work opportunities ... like most migrants, they tend to follow the yellow brick road.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

@@thevelointhevale1132 That must have been a very bright and shinny road. I just can't imagine what it would have been like back then to make that sort of move given how different things were. But then again maybe they were just more adventurous back then?

[@thevelointhevale1132]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving Look at the lives of early Pioneers both in the U.S, Canada and Australia!

[@toughgames7815]

Kindly tell me. What is the price of Enfiled LE 1 BSA British 1897. I have got from grand grandfather.

[@brucenicov1224]

This is a great video on the Lee Enfield. Great rifles. As it has been mentioned many times in the comments, they have taken more deer, elk, caribou and moose then any other rifle up here in Canada. They were available in a barrel at hardware stores for $20 in every town in the 50s and 60s. Mine cost me $285 with the matching bayonet. I have a 1943 No4 Mk I/2 that is a fantastic shooter. With good ammunition, it is capable of better accuracy then my abilities with the peep sights. Love your videos. Keep them coming. They are understandable and not overly technical.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks Bruce, and I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@DarthPhallix]

Canadian here. I've got a sporterized .303 and can attest to it's power and accuracy. That baby has put quite a bit of venison in the freezer for an 80+ year old rifle with a 3-9 scope mated to it. Though I've never taken anything larger, a 180-200 grain .303 round has plenty of horsepower to drop elk and moose as well, provided we're not going for obscenely long shots. To be fair, the 8mm Mauser does hit harder, but it's a much more difficult cartridge to find here. Back in the day, you could pick up an old surplus WW2 Lee Enfield that might not have even seen any action for nothing more than a song and dance. Great channel, by the way. You've got an easy, good natured demeanor about you, buddy. Keep up the good work.

[@stevetaylor8698]

Wonderful accent, like honey. Puts me to sleep!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Funny, I've always had that affect on people. Putting them to sleep that is! LOL

[@mauvegrail]

I was afraid to go to sleep just in cans I missed something!!

[@cdavidlake2]

Absolutely love the .303 Enfield. Back in the 80s, milsurps were the only really affordable option for a younger person just getting into centerfire rifles. At the time they seemed like a compromise - and they were *dirt* cheap - but now I can appreciate them for what they really are (and wish I'd picked up many more!). Beautiful weapons.

[@garthrichert5256]

Sincere thanks for your philosophical background to your video. From Rhodesia and South Africa we completely agree with your view of the Lee Enfield .303. Brilliant.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks Garth!

[@MsBeerisgood]

Thanks from Australia. Such a awesome & respectful video mate. Subbed & loved . The 303 British cartridge has been necked down to .22 & up to .35 & even 375 & 416. The later tend to be straight walled & lose the double stack reliability. We have 4 x smelly sporters in our household. & just today I fitted a cut & filed a picatinny rail & replaced it in place of the rear sight . So now it wears a little Bushnell red dot. These rifles & the 303 British cartridge have taken water buffalo, crocodiles & everything else Australia has to offer. It's my favorite, along with the the lever action 45's . Thanks so much & HUGE respect from down under.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. And thank you for your comments.

[@xzqzq]

Is the action on these rifles strong enough to chamber them in .375 H & H Mag, or .416 Rigby. ? i have a P 17 in .300 WM, and my Mausers are stout. Buddy recently acquired LE .303 that I love, and hope to buy from him. Not sure which mod.

[@MsBeerisgood]

@@xzqzq mate the action & magazine isn't long enough for those cartridges. Those old English cartridges arn't very high pressure, so the action could handle them pressure wise but they are far to long for the lee Enfield action. The .375 & .416 cartridges I mentioned above were just the standard 303 British cases, necked up. The 303 case necked up to .358 or .338 is probably the best of the necked up Wildcats, that will still feed properly. You can buy off the shelf dies from simplex Australia for the necked down .270 , .257 & .243 version. Or you can just buy new replacement 303 British barrels from walther lothern to screw on. There are a bunch of barrel makers & suppliers in Australia & New Zealand that make screw in barrels for lee Enfields. But you'll have to really love them as costs will blow out . Hope that helps mate.

[@xzqzq]

@@MsBeerisgood Thanks !!

[@TokyoCraftsman]

I had a MK4 in the late 80's in Canada, I used it for hunting deer, it was an amory rifle that had never been issued to troops so it had very few rounds through it when I got, it. I bought it from a friend for $75 (those were the days!). at 100 yards on the 300-yard peep sight, I'd aim about a foot low and I got a number of deer with it. Rock solid dependable good shooting rifle. The only negative it was HEAVY to lug around, but I still loved it, it was much more affordable to own than many of my buddy's other "Hunting" rifles. Cheers

[@sionhughes5543]

What a joy to listen to your wonderful history lesson . I am an Englishman and have always loved the look and feel of that gun . I have a 1942 version which has been deactivated because the only people with access to real ones are our armed forces police fire arms unit and a tiny group of dear hunters . I really enjoyed this . Thank you

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@andrewcbamberlain7729]

This is so true, I have a 1916 enfied and love it still shooting fantastic. Great to 200 meters plus, I mainly shoot in heavy bush and across sadels creeks ravines. I also have a Sako forester which is great in the highlands in open tussuck but not so good in the bush. From New Zealand. Thanks.

[@paulbrown1870]

Good on ya mate good presentation on the ol Three O, as we in Aus( or some of us call em) I’ve had four of them 2 full stock military 1 British & 1 Lithgow. Which I may add is about 90 odd miles from here, I currently own 1 Lithgow mk 1 fully synthetic stock scope etc great accurate hunting rifle for deer pigs and roo’s, & my 303/25 , 303 action with a sportco 25 cal barrel, I’ve plenty of cases/ projectile’s for both calibres, both the military 303’s have gone, but these pair are keepers. 👍

[@thorsaxe5881]

Sir,, May I commend you on everything you stated as fact and "The Truth", all the way from Marketing, the ballistics of the .303, the accuracy of the Lee Infield design, the shoot ability of the rifle in a marksmanship stand point, the thought and application (Canted Buttstock) in different lengths to fit the shooter. also how the commonwealth country's rolled everything into the Lee through its Modifications as the years went by in its development. No other rifle has the linage and been kept in service as the Lee Infields. the Lee is a Great rifle worth praise and recognition as a Top rifle of choice. it is too bad that they are getting older and less common with more weir and tare on the used gun shop racks. This was an outstanding video. Keep up the good work. -Dave

[@mauvegrail]

Thank you, People like Ian McCullen generally don't have a bad word to say about the .303, but you are the first to actively praise them. The last time I used a .303 was in 1967, when I was in the RAF in Oman. I have regularly heard stories on gun channels about the possibility of rim lock because the .303 is a rimmed cartridge. I particularly like your laconic low key humour when you were describing the rifle. My only complaint in that regard was that you didn't mention that the bolt handle is directly above the trigger when you are going to use it. This though is a minor complaint whe you are not in a combat situation. All together, a wonderful, laconic review. And P.s. I love the double trigger pull to.

[@grudzz7049]

Your narration, knowledge and passion is solid...

[@ykdickybill]

🇬🇧Thank you Tom. As a WW1 and WW2 history buff I really enjoyed this.

[@davidtrishhope9841]

Funny, I was given an old sporterized 303 by a farmer friend .turned out the barrel was shot out ,luckily a gunsmith I know well just happened to have a new barrel he had sitting around for years.i dident won't that rifle destroyed so had it fitted and now am looking forward to testing loads out in it .Will only use this rifle with cast bullets on wild pigs which there are a few of close to where I live .that old rifle looks rough ,but points like a fancy sporting rifle .

[@randallseverini8688]

To fix head space, we have experimented with using very thin washers, silver soldered to the bolt head to take up the slack in a very lightly loose chamber. The sloppiness has to be very minor. Working on other fixes and will let you know if any work

[@bhein67]

I have to completely agree with you on this video. I happen to be the proud owner of three Lee Enfields. One I inherited from my Dad and one was the first rifle I ever bought, the third was a gift from a friend who found it in a barn and didn't want it. All of these rifles work flawlessly, and I wouldn't even try to guess how many freezers have been filled here in the Canadian prairies over the decades. The only draw back I found is the weight (carry this around through the bush for s few days and you will get it...LOL). Ammunition was always readily available in almost every small town hardware store. I also like your comments on using what you have and getting comfortable and consistent with it. I have never been one to follow the" latest greatest" fad for the season. Thanks for a great video. Cheers from Canada

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thank you for your comment. And I know exactly what you mean about the weight. Funny how I never thought about the weight when I was a teenager, but I sure notice now. And it's funny but the older I get the more I appreciate the No1 MkIII. I know the No4 is more accurate but I appreciate that lighter barrel on the No1 more and more.

[@kegawinek7628]

I have owned one of all the big four commonly available WWII battle rifles. A foolishly half-assed sporterized K98k, dated 1940, which I have never fired for a host of reasons, hangs on my wall missing it's furniture. My M1 Garand was a post-war manufacture chambered in .308 and unfortunately has since been traded, though my eyes are always scanning for a replacement in 30.06 as God, er, Garand intended. One of my best Christmas presents ever, a 1943 Mosin 91/30 , which was $99 from Big5 with the faux ammo pouches included, makes regular trips to the desert to punch holes in steel targets. My absolute favorite of these, however, is the first firearm I ever purchased, my '42 Long Branch No 4 Mk 1 for $120 at a local gun show. Considering the Garand was "the greatest battle implement ever devised" - G.S. Patton, yet barely outperforms the Lee Enfield designed a generation before is testament to the quality of these rifles. At 80 years old, mine still gets to throw lead a few times every year and does so effortlessly. I cannot say the same for my Mosin which seemingly rattles itself loose after 20+ rounds requiring the use of tools to keep it together. Poor ergonomics, design/build quality, and a truly cumbersome bolt operation aside, the Russian is still a sexy beast. Yet, for every Ginger, there is a Mary Ann and I'll take the 'gun next door' with the darker wood you can always rely on. The Enfield's outstanding build quality is evident in the stock and forend which both appear to have been used to drive tent poles and dig foxholes, yet never squeak. Of course the smoothest bolt action ever made, my .303 Br is always ready for the 'mad minute' and never fails to put smiles on the faces of the uninitiated, as well as mine. I always like to joke that's probably what SMLE originally meant. On another point, making the most of what you have is a solid philosophy not only for hunting, but also military tactics, business, politics, athletics, economics, interpersonal relationships, pretty much every interaction a human can have with the physical world is enhanced when employing this ideology.

[@jefftheriault3914]

I've got a stock military. Build date 1942. Mirror smooth barrel with rifling as manufactured. Cleaned and oiled stored in a dry place. Only replacements the extractor spring and the strap. Last fired in 2000.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

And that rifle will last another 80 plus years easily!

[@Evilroco]

I used to have a problem with "sportified" Enfield's , now I see the added utility of a well done conversion. The rifle I learnt to shoot with was a .22 version with rear sights forward of the action ,it was it's original configuration and was easy to shoot prone or from a bench but hard work for a skinny 12 year old to shoot off hand.

[@jojo123469]

What a great commentator , What a great video, what else can I say, Thank you for sharing. Canada

[@realmetis8002]

Our Canadian rangers used them till only a few years ago...i harvested 6 moose with my mark 4/1. i use a 3006 now however I do take her out on a date once and a while she just loves when I hold her lol thanks for the video i really enjoyed watching

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad enjoyed it!

[@randyschaff8939]

Ha Ha l take mine out and hug it for awhile also🇨🇦😂

[@realmetis8002]

@@randyschaff8939 you are a good man lol

[@iBleedStarsAndBars]

Just found your channel yesterday and love it. As a collector, hunter, and realoader this is my cup of tea.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you like it Chris. And I think you hit on why I started this channel? There just aren't many channels out there that are all three.

[@ralphbennetsen2688]

I love your videos, your way of telling the story of rifles and cartages but particularly your explanation of the genius of old tech…but mostly your grounded disposition about what is really important.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks Ralph, I really appreciate that.

[@athalyerajan2823]

i grew up in india looking at 303's as our police carried them without ammo !! just to show force. WW2 models with wood all around just beautiful looking guns and they still have them in the cities. AND THANK YOU SIR for telling us to appreciate what we have. I grew up in 200 sq ft and shared a toilet with 5 families. I appreciate even just having running water and 3 Full Bathrooms. Thank you God for this channel too !!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Athalye, I'm glad you're enjoying the channel. And if the message you took from my videos is to "appreciate what we have" then I am proud of the content I have made. I also find it very interesting when I talk to people, usually from other countries, that truly know what it means to not have much. And the part that I find so interesting is how similar people now from poorer countries are to Americans from just a few generations ago. My grandfather grew up in a house about the same size as the one you did. He said when he was little he could look through the cracks in the floorboards and count the chickens under their house. And they didn't have a bathroom at all. He said they went in the woods. Keep in mind that he grew up on a farm during the great depression but his family like so many in the south were poor before the great depression and when the great depression happened nothing really changed for them. My grandfather passed away earlier this year. He was 90 and it's amazing how much things can change in one lifetime. And it amazes me how so many people from other countries can have more in common with my grandfather than I did.

[@Tapidlfj]

Always great to listen to a knowledgeable person speak with passion. Cheers

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thank you very much for your comment.

[@dougmac9955]

I know in some circles it is common to look down on sporterized military surplus rifles, so called Bubba guns. But I'm 73 years old and I can remember my dad and his friends putting together their deer rifles from surplus rifles they either brought back from WWII or mail ordered. I've now started to collect these old customized rifles assembled by the men of the Greatest Generation, I currently have 1 Springfield 1903 in 30-06 with a full length Manlicher style stock, 2, 98 Mausers, 1 a switch barrel gun in 22-250/30-06 in a modified military stock and 1 in 30-06 in another full length stock, an 1891 Mauser in 7.65 Argentine in yet another full length stock. You may be noticing a trend here. I also have a Krag Jorgensen in 30-40 Govt that rivals the Lee Enfields for smoothness. I'm on the look out for a real nice SMLE sporter as well as an Arisaka in either 7.7 or 6.5. Anyone looking for a great deer rifle that is not run of the mill should wander over to the used rifle rack and check out the overlooked and under appreciated Bubba guns. You just may stumble over a diamond in the rough. P.S. I also have at least one example each of these rifles in their original military configuration, but there is just something about these rifles that were customized by the men who faced them in combat to make them better suited for their peace time purpose. But as Tom said these are old used rifles do your research and have your rifle checked by a gunsmith before you trust your eyes and fingers to it.

[@garrybissell1891]

Excellent video, thank you! I have seen them used on the ranges in the UK, not hunting experience, but I was about 7 years old and onwards when I saw them used from 100 up to 1,000 yards with Parker Hale sights, rapid fire exercise as well, from prone, kneeling and standing position. My Grandfather who was one of the best UK rifle instructors trained his cadets well (13 to 18 year olds) team, won the London & Middlesex trophy on I believe 3 occasions in the 1970' and early 80's, beating all the regular services at that time. Occasionally new cadets would claim their rifle was off, and my Grandfather would check, adjust/zero in if needed and hit bulls eye at 1,000 yards. I have fond memories from that era.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

It's amazing what these rifles can do in the hands of a skilled marksman.