The Best No4 Lee Enfield

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/ riflechair
Not all No4Mk1 Lee Enfields ( or variations) were created equally.
Who made the best No4 Enfield? The Brits, Yanks, Pakistani's or Canucks? In my opinion 1st place is a tie but every tie has to be broken....
Watch the video for my two top choices... Anything else is just less...
Having said that I would not hesitate to to risk my life or the safety of my comrades with any milspec No4 enfield. I include $150 sporter enfields in good mechanical shape. They are all great rifles.
My Review of the Pakistan Ordnance Factory No4Mk2
rodandgun.netfi...
I cannot vouch with any level of certainty regarding the quality or reliability of the Australian International Arms (AIA) rifles that I have owned or played with. I simply do not have enough trigger time behind these platforms to make an educated decision. These are not military spec rifles (no part interchangeability).

[@australianmade2659]

I’m an Australian with a 1950 Longbranch. Beautiful rifle.

[@gubourn]

i am in Australia and i have a nice k31, k98, m39, a new t3x arctic even. but i am convinced that my 1950 longbranch is the best battle rifle of the era. Ghost ring, vernier sights, easy charger loading, the fastest action, proper controlled feed, light and handy, a very shootable calibre. i can go on

[@guywerry6614]

How Canadian is this - shooting in the snow and cold with a Lee-Enfield. My Dad had one when I was a kid, shot a few deer with it, so there's warm spot in my heart for these.

[@robw3027]

I don't think it can get much more Canadian.

[@trainknut]

This is perhaps the most Canadian video I have ever seen. Just a pleasant man getting up early in the morning to hike up to a snowy mountain and shoot a 303 all day.

[@trainknut]

@MichaelKingsfordGray Huh? what the hell are you talking about?

[@drscopeify]

It is really nice to see no4s in such great condition and well cared for. I have a heavily used 1941 no4 mk1 made at Maltby and it is fun to shoot. However the bore is past the prime so not as accurate anymore, also the bolt sounds like your Savage made rifle but as you said these were made under pressure of wartime manufacturing.

[@stephenspencer8224]

The No. 4, Mark 2 was a beautiful weapon and I loved it. Now in my seventies I’d struggle with the weight but like the Webley service revolver I have fund memories.

[@MrDaveinAB]

The No.4 series has been and probably always will be my favourite rifles of all time.

[@halfcantan1208]

If I could have only one rifle it would be the 1917 Enfield in 30,06

[@TheHawkeye61]

Nice video! I’m not basically an Enfield guy but I do have a couple of these that you demonstrate here (1955 Irish contract and the Savage). Your video has inspired me to take them out for “a spin”! Thanks again.

[@peterbaile3797]

G'Day from Astralia, I have a Savage No 4 purchased nearly 40 years ago as a barreled action only. The barrel was an ugly 2 groove that had suffered badly over its life time, so being one to think outside the circle I rebarreled with a .308 bore chambered for the .303 case( I reload for all my rifles and at that time the .311 projectile available were rubbish. AS I said this was 40 years go and it is still my goto hunt gun (PIGS)

[@klimovichrusland]

Thank you for the nice informative video, and very clear explanation. Just started my journey with no 4 enfield . I live in Burnaby , BC . Just got my second no4 , Long Branch 1944.

[@Riflechair]

Enfieldis is a recognized affliction. Tread carefully.

[@thedefinitive6296]

I have a Savage and a Long Branch and I can definitely attest to the Long Branch being a superior build. The Savage works just fine, but the LB's action is buttery smooth. The Savage just isn't so much. It works fine in operation, but if you work them back to back, you can really feel the difference.

[@ScottGpa]

I've said it before and I'll keep telling anyone who will listen: If you love Enfields, you'll love "Riflechair" Fantastic videos packed with more information than my gray matter can retain. Thanks so much for sharing your passion. BTW, it's now March 2017, any Enfields left with the Canadian Rangers or have they now completed the switch? I do hope that those Rangers will get the first choice if they want to keep their Enfields.

[@m.s.769]

Your videos are highly entertaining and informative. I took my Longbranch 1943 No.4 Mk1* out today. Great rifle. I love it. I will be taking it deer hunting in a couple of weeks.

[@tays8306]

Always thought the no4 would be my fave. But the no1 mk3 always seems to be in my hands... I did take a cheap savage sporter with a neutered bayonet lug and put it back in full dress and add an addley precision mount and an old redfield 4x.. wish my range had a gong further than 225. But it sure is fun. Gives you appreciation of guys hitting out to 500+. 225 on a 12 inch gong ain't as simple as you think if the wind is up.

[@mwmcbroom]

I have one of these Fazakerly MkII's. I'm not gonna pull it out of the safe, but as I recall it was built in 1955, so very late. Bought it in about 1995. Unwrapping it felt like an archeological undertaking. It shoots well and is one of my most accurate milsurps.

[@sarsfieldabu3223]

Nice shooting, textbook stable position! Fired the no4mk2 with the Irish Reserves till 1989/90 when we changed over to the FN FAL, while it was nice to finally get to use a modern(ish) rifle, the ramp rear sights couldnt compare to the fine sights on the Enfield. The elder disciples of rifle marksmanship never warmed to it :-) We fired some fine beechwood ones from storage just before they were withdrawn and exported to Canada. Best wishes, enjoy

[@garywilliams8312]

Awesome video .... i live just outside Liverpool, UK and just down the road from where the Royal Ordinance Factory in Fazakerley was situated, all gone now sadly.

[@pclement4609]

Enjoyed this post, thank you, Greetings to our Canadian cousins from the UK. :-)

[@johnfife3062]

Great video! Much respect from "south of the boarder." Cheers.

[@erpece]

I have a No4 mk2 of the irish contract! Exactly the same as yours. Great gun and very accurate.

[@tristangallagher2035]

I appreciate sentimentality over science , being habitually guilty of it myself! :) Patriotism is also splendid stuff, especially the gentle and friendly Canadian version. That said, and respectfully, the well- worn Long Branch is not a better rifle than a brand new No 4 Mk2. Nor was it when it was new. The final incarnation of the L-E family was its best, with improvements for accuracy that were the culmination of all the experience the previous Mks had imparted. As a LE collector myself, who was fortunate enough to be buying many of my LE s when you could pick them up in great nick ( in the US) for a close either side of $100, I want to thank and compliment you for your excellent videos. I am reinspired- Think I have to head to the range now!... (Going to take the old 1913 BSA I have had for thirty two years- not because its the most accurate one I have, but because I love it best!)

[@Riflechair]

You nailed it... For me there is a ballance on weight and functionality. The design of the No4Mk2 is superior but it is much heavier. I've carried this CNo4Mk1* over mountains and have been recognized during National level service rifle concentrations with it. She is a touch lighter and I trust it. In any case it might all be in my head. I love both but the Mk2 is the better rifle on paper.

[@tristangallagher2035]

Riflechair, I applaud and relate to your approach. That old BSA took my first deer, and would be the last rifle I would part with, over the dozens of "better" ones I possess. Cheers!

[@jayfelsberg1931]

My collection also includes a 1917 Mk III* ROFE, a 1926 Lithgow No. 1/IIII, and 303 and .308 Ishapores, and a jungle carbine. The chamber of 1917, alas, shows the signs of shooting corrosive Berdan primers for over 100 years, but the Lithgow is a fine shooter and the Ishys actually shoot pretty well, with tye .303 a bit more accurate. Of the jungle carbine zeroing it and shooting one mag provides decent results, with really rogh recoil and, yes, a need to rezero when you reload.

[@Ralphbo-u6l]

Good job. Always liked the .303. I am lucky enough to own and Irish contract No. 4

[@johnrhodes3350]

Where do they tend to become available, if at all? Thanks

[@radio53snakes53]

I saw a local cop in Assam, India in 2013 with a MKI. Still going strong! Excellent video. Thanks.

[@Riflechair]

+Radio53 Snakes!! The Indians swear testament to these rifles for sure!

[@doncole6088]

I have a Savage 1 mark IV and it shoots 2 inch groups at 200 yards. The trigger pull is smooth and light. It is my go to at vintage gun match. I know that not all guns get built with the same quality. Maybe your Savage was built next to a holiday or a weekend when workers minds where some where else. The Enfield's are great weapons platforms of which I am a proud owner of two styles. Keep up the great videos and never let them take your guns. Thanks

[@Riflechair]

Hi Don - That is fantastic accuracy out of an enfield. CONGRATS! You got a good one! Cheers...

[@davidfriesen9512]

You can get steel gongs from garage sales. People selling their weight sets. I found some in the dumpster at work. Nice and thick steel. Someone just threw out a half a dozen varying weights. Great for shooting at🐿

[@Riflechair]

Totally great suggestion!

[@raymondoreilly7569]

I have just bought a Lee Enfield 1955, Mk4 #2, from Liverpool. It was rebarrelled with 5 groves and I have a PHC5 target sight set at 600. Great video.

[@mp6163]

I am a .303 fan from Connecticut. I have a no. 4 mk. 2 identical to your and love it. My favorite of the 4 Enfields I own.

[@Clarkecars]

that Irish contract SMLE is beautiful, I own and have owned a few Long Branch models and I was never disappointed.

[@Rundu1987]

I have a spotless and very accurate no4 mk2 (f). Love it!

[@richardcassara8876]

My Long Branch Number 4 Mark 1* (1942) has the same serial number stamped on the receiver, bolt, magazine, and stock.

[@alanpassat6759]

Royal Ordance No4s were made in two places I think. ROF Fazackerly in Liverpool, England and ROF Maltby in Yorkshire, England.

[@frankcarvell8935]

An ongoing love affair with my No4 Mk2...Irish contract...a more accurate WWII era bolt action rifle does not exist. Thanks for your keen observations and you passion.

[@Dan-sq5cv]

+Frank Carvell Glad to hear that Frank. I have a November 54 Irish contract, that I have not shot. I will have to tray the old girl out. Also have a Lithgow #1,

[@dobypilgrim6160]

@vachief No. It is a totally different action that is a .30-O6 conversion of the British P14. Basically a Mauser. Nothing like these at all.

[@williambransford6418]

I bought a 1944 No. 4 Mk 1 Long Branch at a pawn shop about 4 years ago, paying $250 (U.S.) for it. Someone had sporterized it by cutting two inches off the butt and putting a thick recoil pad there. They also cut off the forearm just above where the barrel bank went and disposed of the bands and both upper hand guards. It still shot beautifully, but I wanted to restore it to original condition. I just finished mounting the replacement maple stock, forearm and hand guards and will finish it up when my butt swivel assembly arrives from S. Africa next week. I will have about $300 (U.S.) invested in the restoration of that $250 rifle when I am done. I still cannot find brass butt plate screws on the proper provenance, so I have steel screws in my brass butt plate, and the hand guard retaining band (just in front of the receiver) is stamped with an S denoting Savage made it, but it is sure looking better than the “bubba-fied” rifle I picked up for a song. My wood parts came from a single rifle, and I got them and the brass butt plate from a vendor at a gun show in Florida. I paid asking price for the wood but they had no cracks and the metal caps were already installed and finished properly. APEX Gun Parts proved a great source for most of the hardware I needed, and their service was exemplary. Numrich Gun Parts lists most of the things you might need, including some unissued wood, but some of their listed items (including some substitute parts) were out of stock or no longer available. I filled in the gaps by shopping on e-Bay; that is how I found my butt sling swivel assembly at ‘itemofafrica’, whose service has been superb. By the way, #14 x 1-1/2 brass slotted wood screws have made a nice substitute for keeping all the pieces attached until I find originals. My point is that it is still possible to restore a vintage Lee Enfield with contemporary parts at reasonable cost provided you can invest a little Internet time in your labor of love. Good luck.

[@Stray03]

I got a hold of a sporterised savage that I built back up with some original wood (barrel wasn't cut), This one had been refurbished by the Brits, they changed the barrel so it no longer has its 2 groove, and tried to buff out the savage markings. Only issue is I changed the back sight out like you did, but I didn't have a longer front sight so she shoots a bit high. Still shoots nice though.

[@derekheuring2984]

I've lost count of how many Lee Enfields I've owned and/or shot over the years. It is now 60 years since I first learned to shoot a rifle. I was taught on a No.2 .22 Rimfire training rifle with the Dominion of Canada Rifle Association and I presently own 7 LE rifles. I can vouch for Riflechair's appraisal of the Long Branch No.4 MkI* rifle. It is the most accurate of all my military surplus rifles and regularly shoots M.O.A. groups with handloads. It even surpasses the Fulton and Son regulated No.1 MkIII I own, and that's saying a lot!

[@Riflechair]

Wow thank you for sharing your opinion Derek. It is nice to finally hear from someone with similar experience

[@nowthisis2stupid]

If I may as a U.S. citizen, offer an opinion as to why the savage is on the rough side. The U.S. firearms manufacturers during the war were extremely inwardly focused. Although, it is true that the U.S. helped it's allies out quite a lot. Firearms manufacturing was a bit different, I believe. They were entirely focused on producing U.S. firearms, and thought of building British rifles, to be a bit taxing, or beneath them. It was a bit of an afterthought, if you will. Which wasn't fair to the Lee Enfield, as it is, in my opinion tied for the title of the best bolt gun ever made.

[@slikrickabn1190]

I agree- I've owned all the versions in time gone by, and the only one I still own is a long branch. The best.

[@robertspeicher5047]

Back around 1963. I read an artical about a shooting match held in Canada. It was open to Enfield rifles. 1000 yard range. I remember wanting to attend a match. Never made it. Just wondering if the match still takes place.Right I own a Mk 4 and a Mk III. Number 4 1943. Number III 1916.

[@dobypilgrim6160]

I live them all about equally. There is indeed something special about a Long Branch. However my favorite one is the No.4 Mk. 2. Mine is a 1954 ROF (F) and is early in the Irish Contract series. Like yours it's just brand new. And it's real tack driver. I have had several 1 MOA groups with it though the average is probably closer to 1.5. Just an amazing rifle. And so pretty too!

[@ScottGpa]

Thanks for your videos here. As a Canuck you just know I was drooling over that Longbranch number. Now in BC but when I was younger I used to get into Mimico/Longbranch a fair bit as a trucker working out of Clarkson. If only I had realized back then the value (not $$$) of one of these rifles I'd have one now. Not to complain though, at least I have one, Fazakerley and definitely in need of a good bedding job. Ya know? The longer I own it, the more I like it. I've owned a couple of M1 Garands, a couple of K98's, an Ag/m 42 Ljungman, Couple of SMLE Mk.3 but after the big clean out a few years back my No.4 Mk.1 was the keeper, poor bedding be damned. Just love the bolt placement, the fit to my hand, sights and flawless feeding. Perhaps some of my love for it is because it's what my Dad took to England in '39 then into Italy in '43. There are a lot of nice rifles in the world but we all have our favs and this is mine. Cheers.

[@Yeandle31]

Longbranch started parkerizing No4's in 1950. If a pre-1950 Longbranch No4 is parkerized then it has been refinished or re-done at the arsenal.

[@Riflechair]

You are 100% correct!

[@timblack6422]

Beautiful weapon. I have a Savage No4 MK1/1942 . Love enfields. I need to acquire a Long Branch example

[@berhorst59]

Mid 70s, I was stationed at Fti Hood, TX. There was a chain of discount stores, Gibson's, in every town aroound. Each one had cardboard barrels of milsurp rifles at unbelieveable prices. I bought a Nr 4 Mk1, that looked like it had been used for a fence post, but bore looked almost new, and buttery smooth action. I also bought a Ruger handgun at the same time, and the dept manager for firearms happened to be then one who checked me out. Since I bought the new handgun, and the rifle looked horrible, he only charged me $5 for the rifle. Most of their milsurps were about $25. First time I took it out to shoot, went with a buddyd from my unit, and he had a fancy scoped Model 70 Win, and my L-E with peep sight was more accurate than his .270 with scope. Sold it to him when I was sent to Germany. Wish I still had it

[@tracey1013]

I just picked up a 1944 Lee Enfield No4 Mk1* Long Branch. Wanted one for years because I live very close to where the Long Branch factory used to be.

[@brianlambert9202]

Great video (and shooting technique) but I was surprised to hear your comments on the Savage. I have several Mk4's and the Savage is by far the best made, has the smoothest action and is the most accurate of the bunch. it also has the least throat erosion of all. I guess it just comes down to how much the guy on the shop floor cared about doing a good job, eh? Cheers and good shooting!

[@bryancruise6245]

My guess is the first rifle your holding is a UF 55 serial which means it's not an Irish contract . All Irish contract were delivered to Ireland and sold off in batches starting in 1993 .

[@cgdeery]

Bryan..not sold off..but virtually given away!! Same with most of the Gustav's and Bap's..

[@andreag108]

Thanks to your beautiful videos I am recently buying an Enfield n4 Mk I * canadian long branch (1942). I am also buying a N.32 Mk III scope to assemble and wooden cheek rest.

[@Riflechair]

It is my sincere please Andrea. Good luck with your project.

[@cimadomepat]

Thanks for the great video. I bought a "irish" No4 Mk 2 from a co worker not knowing anything about Lee Enfield rifles. What a treat. Thank you for sharing the background and history of the blond No4. I learned much. Would it be possible to scope the weapon without drill/tap modification?

[@katana258]

yes mounts in the rear sight area [ remove rear sight ] ..google brand I think it was B&K but its been 20 years ..

[@j.d.peppmeier9041]

Makes me happy to own a Long Branch No.4 !! Mine is a 1943 and not nearly as pretty, but it is sound and all Enfield !! It has seen a lot of service somewhere. Wish it could talk !!

[@willielongbotham7156]

You really need to get into the history of the 4 mkll how it came about and how it survived after WW2 in military an civil applications. My own preference, P14/17 rebarreled in .308.

[@MarcosCaminante]

I am really enjoying your channel. Thanks for the work.

[@theoriginalOSOK]

I just found and bought a Savage No.4 MkI* and like it a lot. I used to have a Fazakerly and it was nicer IMHO. I haven't inspected a Longbranch so can't comment on those. I wanted to get a SMLE again bc I have brass, bullets and a mold to cast with as well as a sizing die set up that's .314" - which has proven to be the best size for all of the SMLE's that I tried them in... Your comments on the Savage.... apparently, you don't realize that these were churned out as fast as possible as they were in dire need.... and that's the reason the finish is not as fine. If you want to see typical American work, look at a Garand. Had to add... I got this Savage for $500 at a gun show which made my day! It's all matching too.

[@anthonywilson4873]

Good practical demo in kneeling position. Quick action a very efficient use of rifle. Good description well made.

[@raysimon1368]

Nice video nice rifles I own a no.4 mark11 that my dad bought before I was born and I'm 65 first center fire I ever shot when I was 10yrs old he said I was not big enough to shoot it but I insisted so he helped me first rifle I took deer hunting it has put meat in the freezer for 65yrs that I know off smoothest bolt action I own love it gun season starts hear in Indiana next week so it will be looking for freezer meat these are great guns no matter what anyone says if you don't like a British. 303 Enfield you don't know guns

[@metagolfer4550]

Howdy Riflechair. Found enough brass to reload for a trip to the range, finally. Hope you are keeping well.

[@Billofthenorth1]

I remember when those Irish contract rifles were available here, $200 still in the wrap. I kick myself for not having gotten one but "I already had my No4". Dang it, lol.

[@Riflechair]

+Billofthenorth1 And now a pitted and worn out M1 Garand is worth more than an unissued No4Mk1* - I don't get it...

[@Billofthenorth1]

They need to make a movie with lot's of No4s and SMLEs to boost the prices. :)

[@factsoftheconfederacy7151]

While I get that the Savage is lesser quality, I don't think it's entirely fair to bash it. They tried to help British forces and they achieved that goal. I'm sure as long as it functions well, you aren't going to care if one is slightly smoother in a combat situation.

[@motor4027]

Also, we were supplying guns, tanks, vehicles, ships etc to Britain, Russia and other countries while trying to supply our own forces as well. So if we spend more time on the superior m1 garand for our own forces and less on the Lee Enfield, that’s expected. We still made better rifles of our own by 100s of miles

[@Dan-sq5cv]

Really enjoyed your video and your appreciation for the Enfield. I love my Mauser's but if I was walking into battle with a bolt action rifle, give me an Enfield, ten rounds, faster rate of fire, shorter smoother bolt, and detachable magazine, even though it was not often used that way. I have three Enfields. 1954 No.4 Faz Irish Contract that was issued but is very very good condition. 1945 BSA No.5 Descent shape 1914 No.1 Lithgow a rearseneled beuty. How do you feel Lithgow quality was? I know that apparently never switched to the No.4. Just wondered.

[@recoil7.625]

Great Enfield video , Regards from the uk and my 53 fazakerly no4 mk2.

[@michaelw.urbansr.8617]

Well im sure glad you said that about the No4Mk1* by Long Branch , because i just purchased an awesome example of one about 6months ago. I have not had a chance to shoot it yet. I plan too along with my Remington built, Mosin Nagant i just bought last month! lol My No4 was built in 1943 and , has a different rear sight though.....? Its a milled rear sight with a curved actuator on it. Any info on that? I have not found an example on you tube or any other platform with this kind of rear sight??? Thanks and great stuff!

[@gothamgoon4237]

Ever fired an Australian Lithgow? Definitely up there with their British Enfield brothers.

[@tays8306]

Was just going to say. I have a 53 faz no4 mk2... But my 41 lithgow no1 always seems to get out more.

[@joshruby]

I have a Long Branch no4 mk* made in 1943, I bought about 20 years ago from Roses department store I paid $45 for it and its in excellent condition. the stock is walnut.

[@BriarAndSons]

Great video! I'd love to have one of those Royal Ordinance No.4's if they didn't seem to cost $2,000 in 2023..

[@sgtslippyfist6345]

I have a 1943 longbranch. I live in Oregon and absolutely love the rifle

[@michaelbenjmitchell1]

Nice thing about the Enfields the front sights were easier to adjust for windage versus most other European designs where you would have to drict the front sight. The Enfields only required a tool to turn the adjusting knob to move the front sight..

[@dunxy]

I recently picked up a savage no4, prior owner won local service rifle championships with this particular rifle so obviously capable despite savage quality and 2 groove.I have only put a few dozen rounds through her in the dark and howling wind and had no dramas ringing 8" gong at 100m, will be interesting when i get her to the range for some proper groups, already got a heap of rounds loaded for stage one of load development.

[@DevinAlden]

I have a 1943 no4 mk ?( There is a splash of old green paint covering up the rest of it) .... Marked ^ F below the the date So I assume it's Fazakerly. I absolutely love it. The bolt is smooth as butter. It has the mk1 sight with the adjustable elevation with the screw. The wood is a darker color like walnut I want to to say. It has the groves cut in the wooden handguard. I don't know what they are for but I noticed some rifles have them and some don't. It's a 2 Grove rifle and the bore is mint. I can hit my ranges gong at 200 everytime. Like I said above there is a bunch of green paint all over the metal of the gun, some of it has come off. seems like maybe it was used in the Pacific or Malaysia Idk but it seems it was once painted in that green.

[@Riflechair]

Hi Devin. You are probably right. I have seen the green paint on rifles below the wood line that served in tropical / jungle environments. The paint was to help reduce issues relating to corrosion (not camo).

[@KowOneOhTwo]

I picked up an Irish contract rifle last night. It has a Monte Carlo stock, I'll be returning it to original condition.

[@noneed4me2n7]

I have a Fazakerley No4 of 1943 manufacture that im about finished converting to a T wartime variant. Most of the parts are NOS, all serials match after being FTRed in 55. I don’t think it was ever reissued as all the blueing is intact and the finish is still factory fresh. Got 3 bayonets for it two pigstickers, and one bowie style South African one. Im looking into getting the No7 bayonet with the switchable pommel but those fetch a premium apparently. I have repro scope, Bren gun mount though im not machining my rear sight I just removed it for practicality. It’s going in to the gunsmith to have the scope mounting pads machined in then it’s off to get zeroed.

[@user-wx3wc4bo7c]

I've always wanted a proper Lee Enfield Mk4 No 1 it was what I originally trained with 14 years when the C7,C6,C8,C9, were being sent off to Afghanistan .... however I later I found a 1956 Mk 4 No 2 I've given up my Mauser K98 and my other sporterized Enfield for a beautiful rifle with a great bore and smooth action

[@adammarshall80]

"Mama always said Lee Enfields are like a box of choc-o-lates, you never know what you're gonna get" - Forrest Gump

[@Urkie1979]

I had the chance to get a 1953 Long Branch a couple of years ago for $350. I never took it and have been kicking myself ever since...

[@garyallsebrook3493]

I bought my 1943 Long Branch, No.4 Mk1* in 1962 from sears for $12.50. Great condition, all walnut furniture and matching numbers.

[@brianhodgkinson3176]

I always love watching your video's...The Long Branch you're shooting in this vid, I presume it's a two groove barrel?I have one of the post war Italian re-arm #4 mk1* 1943 LB rifles, Italian export proof marked CM (2014 if I remember correctly). Keep up the good work!

[@ed5042]

had to come back again! lol, love carrying my 1950 deer hunting in Central NC!

[@kennkid9912]

Irish contract rifles are not the final production of the LE. I have a Pakistani Ordinance Factory sniper model Mark 4-2 circa 1963. Some of the minor parts are Mark e d BSA.

[@Riflechair]

Oh yes very true. POF made these rifles for some time. I wrote an article on them you may find interesting. You can download it here rodandgun.netfirms.com/riflechair.com/POF_Range_Review.pdf

[@kennkid9912]

Thanks will check it out.

[@jerryseeley276]

That was a great video. I am very new to Lee Enfields but have been around guns all my life. I just purchased a Lee Enfield No4 Mk2 on line and believe it to be from the UK. After your video I am certain it is. Here is a picture of the serial number. What do you think? Thanks for the video. Keep em coming.

[@ryguy5709]

I appreciate your video, but the powers that be at the time deemed my savage worthy going through Holland & Holland for sniper configuration. Next time if time and weather allows you should do some groupings between the three. Excellent video and beautiful guns

[@Gottaculat]

I just recently bought my first bolt action rifle, and it's a No.4 Mk1* made by Long Branch in 1943. It was unfortunately sporterized, with the stock's fore end shortened by about half with the top hand guards deleted, iron sights removed entirely, drilled and tapped for the Enfield's side mounting scope mount. Of course, the previous owner didn't sell it with the scope, mount, or even the iron sights, which is how I managed to buy it for a mere $200. However, $100 later, and I now have a new old stock milled rear sight, a set screw version of the front sight, and I'm wondering if I should just leave the stock alone, or buy a set of matching walnut stock, fore end, hand guards, and the various bits to mount it all. I'm thinking I'll just leave the stock alone, maybe sand it smoother as the person who made the sporterized stock seems to have carved it with a knife or something, because the woodwork sucks compared to what I can do (and have done). Anyone who says that'll destroy the resale value, well, the rifle was already $200, and I don't have any intention of selling my first bolt action rifle ever. The good news is the action is buttery-smooth and lightning fast, feeling closer to the bolt on a modern $3,000 rifle than you'd expect from a bargain find. Also, the rifling looks factory-new, and after a good cleaning, it looks like a mirror in there, not a scratch or single pit. Carbon ring around the spent case comes back less than 1mm, so the breach is in superb condition. The rail is also mirror-like, and the rotational play in the bolt when closed is no more than about 10 degrees at the most. All in all, I think I found myself a real gem for an amazingly affordable price! Now, if only cartridges weren't $2/round... Better learn how to hand load .303 British! It's funny, as an American, I like getting things that were made in America, but as a collector and history buff as well, I crave things from all over the world and throughout time. While I'd love to be able to afford an original M1 Garande, sadly their price has become unobtainable for someone of limited income such as myself, and it warms my heart I can get a hold of this British designed, Canadian made piece of WWII history. Maybe some day I can fill out my collection, but for now, this is a good first step, and not only is this rifle my first bolt action, but it's my first WWII era and milsurp firearm. Every collection needs to start somewhere!

[@Riflechair]

Great questions. I'm posting this to my Facebook Group for some feedback. Feel free to come aboard and join in the conversation. Great Post! facebook.com/Riflechair/posts/1643300155837233

[@HarrysHouseChannel]

Last November, I picked up my Savage No4 from a one owner personal collection, he had not shot it more than 50 times, and I only payed $450 for it. helluva deal and an amazing rifle so far

[@Riflechair]

Harrison Stewart congratulations on finding a great rifle! I hope the two of you enjoy some adventures together. Remember to treat her rough. They prefer commanding shooters.

[@richardanderson2742]

The whole Lend-Lease thing was a March 1941 political fiction to justify aiding the Brits while the US was officially neutral. The US neither expected nor wanted (and indeed never got) anything back. It is worth noting that not all Savage (actually Stevens, a subdivision of Savage) made rifles were Lend-Lease, since the Brit order and delivery of some 2000+ rifles occurred before Lend-Lease. These do not have the US property markings, making them fairly uncommon. It is argued by some that these earlier rifles were finally finished, which was discontinued when Uncle Sam started paying the bills. In the little over 3 years of production, the antiquated Stevens factory produced more than 1.2 million rifles. Since many if not most WWII production rifles were issued and then went through FTR following the war, there are lots of newish looking rifles in circulation that actually are post war repaired and then stored. As with your Long Branch, barrel wear (particularly in the throat from use of cordite) is a far better point of assessment than external appearance. Confirming the tests at that time, I really can't discern much difference between the 2-groove and 5-groove barrel. I think bedding is a larger factor for any Lee-Enfield, as it is for many wooden stocked guns close to 80 years after production.

[@Frontiersmanbushcraft]

In your long branch that you have put so many rounds through have you ever had to change the bolt heads for head space? I have 1942 * with a beautiful bore but the bolt head is stamped 3 and I’ve heard that means the headspace is about worn out , but it shoots fine for now no case separating. Great video!

[@elliotmann9787]

Oh wow, I just read my receipt for this rifle. I only paid $70 for it! It was 30 years ago.

[@Riflechair]

@@elliotmann9787 Congratulations!

[@genxmurse7019]

Twenty years ago, I could have bought one of these still wrapped up in cosmoline for only $75!

[@Plainsimple67]

NOW THEY ARE AS MUCH AS $1700.00

[@slowhand1198]

I bit the bullet back in the day and dropped $250.00 on my brand new 1/55 No. 4 Mk II (F). Broke in the bore swabbing after every round for 20 rounds, then every third round for the second 20. Had to stop when a snow squall limited visibility to five yards. (Good thing the truck was down hill, or it might have gotten interesting finding it.) Should have bought four of them. My 1942 Longbranch (NZ marked) No. 4 Mk I * still gives it a run for the money, though.

[@Riflechair]

+slowhand11 I have carried the CNo4Mk1* most. Worked and walked with this rifle under some terrible environmentals. The No4Mk2 is probably best because of the hanging trigger assembly. I have had issues with the Mk1* trigger because of heavy rain and saturated wood but it hasn't been enough of an issue to want to carry the extra weight of the Mk2. That beech wood is HEAVY.

[@The42Petes]

Great video!! I got my cross rifles and crown with an LB No.4

[@haroldgodwinson832]

I tend to agree. The wartime Long Branch No 4 Mk1 * is a fantastic rifle. They sold here in NZ back in the 1970's in new, unissued condition, for $30 ($33 if you wanted the cut down for hunting version!). Although $30 was still a fair bit of money back then, it was clearly understood at the time that this was a never to be repeated bargain!

[@Riflechair]

WOW that's cool. Thanks for sharing - I'd sure like to find a minty Long Branch. A treasure...

[@williamrance5086]

A most enjoyable video. I guess the colour of the wood stock plays a psychological game in the mind when favouring old rifles. The beechwood does it for me - its light warm colour, somehow, takes away the lethality and somber purpose of the gun, making it appear more of a target rifle than a killing machine. My only experience with a Lee Enfield was in the UK Air Cadets back in the late fifties. We were allowed 5 shots at a paper target at 20 yards - target size equivalent to 220 yards. On inspecting my efforts, the range instructor counted a close, four hole grouping - one larger than the others! I was convinced all five rounds hit the target, but, because it needed 5 holes, they denied me my marksmanship badge. I packed the cadets in, thinking 'sod that for a game of soldiers' - went and joined the merchant marine as a radio operator instead - bit petulant of me, but I was only young. And, some years later, visiting Montreal, I got the chance to visit a ranch and put in some time on a range shooting a Winchester rifle and a few rounds with a .38 Police Special handgun - and some pony trekking too! Can't be bad.

[@Riflechair]

Great story William! Sounds like a bad call when the RO was scoring your target in my opinion. These are fantastic rifles - blood guts and glory. I'd bet my life on these rifles (and I often do in reality). Cheers and thanks for your comment.

[@williamrance5086]

Thank you for your videos. Kindest regards, Bill.

[@ScottGpa]

I too was in the cadets in the late 50's, Nothamptonshire. Did a weekend at the barracks in Northampton once. We were taken out in the trucks on Saturday, handed rifles and 5 blank rounds. Had a "blast". Left England in '63 for Canada. 53 years here in God's country and still can't be without a No. 4 Enfield.

[@williamrance5086]

Hi, Scott. Can't argue with that! Visited Canada many times over the past 50 years or so, lovely country, lovely people. My mother emigrated to Manitoba in 1980. It's too darned cold in winter! 40 below is colder than doing the Arctic run to Murmansk up in northern Russia. I'll take care of a little bit of God's country, here in west Lancashire in the Ribble estuary. Kindest regards, Bill

[@zrobertson8862]

it makes me angry that our shit government put these rifles into storage rather than give them or sell them to us it's after all tax payers money, best of luck in Canada ,,,that bastard Trudeau is a liberal gun grabber

[@NoGoBu]

I'm at the range watching this video. 06:30 am. I'm with ya brother 🪖🇺🇸

[@Riflechair]

Maple Leaf Up - we will remember them.

[@MrGeoffois]

I have a Long Branch but looks like a new ish 5 groove barrel was put on in the FTR process. Shoots great

[@jackwardley3626]

I believe the first 50,000 or so made by savage under the U.K. contract. When lend lease came in the U.S. took over the contract for the last 150,000 or so. But the ones built under the U.S. contract were paid for after war. But for the sake of 200,000 rifles would have thought long branch or maltby could have filled that in. If savage was making M-1's I'm dam sure they would have been made as best as they could.

[@HVACKABOOM]

Glad to find your site. Great video I have a mk2.

[@majorlee76251]

Next time I am I Western, MA, I will have a little talk with the folks at Savage about quality control. I have a #4 from Fazerkly ww!2 vintage. Loved the video. Fantastic rifle. 303 in FMJ bit pricy here

[@paulg2810]

I got a stupid question, you state the Irish Contract rifles were put into War stocks in (Grease/ Greece) Are you saying Greece the country like some shipments lately? or are you saying Grease like cosmoline?

[@Riflechair]

Paul G Grease - as in cosmolene

[@berhorst59]

You said the Savage was manufactured in 1943, right? Our factories may not have been getting bombed, but they were busy manufacturing war materiels for our troops, as well as rifles and tanks, and trucks , and ammunition for the UK also.

[@Riflechair]

Yes it was a significant investment in the wartime industrial complex. Incredible any of it was made to the level and rigour of quality that it was!

[@australianmade2659]

berhorst59 the savage is not as good. But then no one will deny America best efforts went into Garands and other famous rifles

[@dobypilgrim6160]

@@australianmade2659 Savage was Lend Lease. So basically it was free to the Commonwealth. Gift horse having its mouth looked into? Lol.

[@matthewodonnell3936]

Fazakerley is in Merseyside near Liverpool, near to where I grew up… I’ve got a 1949 No4 mk2, bang on it’s pronounced with a deep scouse accent more like Fah-za-kher-ly Kh is phlemy and harsh in the back of your throat Sound mate, yous hav it, eh

[@Riflechair]

I'd love it if you could video yourself pronouncing it correctly. I would adopt its proper pronunciation.

[@minuteman4199]

I have seen the Canadian Forces Technical Orders on the Lee Enfield rifles. They still published them because we maintained them for the Rangers. They specifically stated that any rifle that came through the shop with two grove rifling was to be scrapped. I'd be curious to know how a rifle made in the middle of WW11 could be brand new never issues.

[@grizzlycountry1030]

There are always stockpiles of everything in the military so that they can be issued to new troops or to replace lost/broken stuff. There is always extra unused stuff left over.

[@isaace8090]

Good video on the differences between the manufacturers. I'm looking to add an Enfield to my collection before they become difficult to find and too expensive. I'm checking out a couple this weekend. Both are No 4 Mk 1s. There is a jungle carbine for sale also, but I want a full rifle. The two No 4's saw still had cosmoline on them and were around $400 U.S. $300-500 seems to be the going rate for decent shooters unless they are rusted, pitted and beat to hell. Update-It's a Long Branch 1942. Everything looks good except the bore is full of cosmoline. I'll return tomorrow with some stuff to clean it before I decide to buy or not.

[@noahgaray7923]

Did you buy it? My mom's cousin has 4 for sale.

[@isaace8090]

It was sold an hour before I returned to the gun store. It's too bad because it was really nice. I won't be able to buy anything until December due to an extended trip to a not so nice location.

[@user-wx3wc4bo7c]

Before I sold all of my stuff loved the Long branch I got from an estate sale for less than 200 bucks it was a sporter but for the price .....

[@Larbr000]

I just purchased 2 Long Branch rifles, solid shooters and well made.

[@GetTheFO]

The nose cap isn’t supposed to be “loose” in a sense on these? I always had thought there was supposed to be play at the front on these to accommodate barrel harmonics.