*British, WW1-1915, Short Magazine Lee-Enfield SHtLE (SMLE) Mk III Rifle with Sling, Enfield Manufacture, Drill Purpose (D.P.), Old-Spec Deactivated*
Serial No: Q7557
A genuine First World War–dated British Short Magazine Lee-Enfield Mk III rifle, manufactured at the Royal Small Arms Factory, Enfield, in 1915, and later formally designated Drill Purpose (D.P.). This example is offered in old-spec deactivated condition, retaining its correct external form, original configuration, and strong period character throughout.
The rifle is built to true Mk III specification, retaining the magazine cut-off, windage-adjustable rear sight, and correct receiver furniture, clearly distinguishing it from the later Mk III* pattern. The receiver bears the correct Enfield markings, with serial number Q 7557, a Q-prefix consistent with 1915 Enfield production blocks.
Fitted with the correct Mk III rear sight assembly, graduated to 2,000 yards and complete with windage adjustment, together with protective right-hand sight ear. The barrel is correctly stamped “H.V.”, indicating conversion for Mk VII high-velocity ammunition. The nose cap is marked L7691, and the barrel and action display correct Enfield inspection and acceptance marks throughout. The bolt is of correct wartime form but without a serial no, inspection markings “M” to the bolt head. The magazine carries crown inspection marks together with inspector numerals and serial KB25529, consistent with service replacement during its working life.
The rifle is fitted with a post-Second World War British web sling dated 1949, manufactured by W.H. Wilkins & Hemsley Ltd. The sling follows the established 1937 Pattern wartime design but was produced in the immediate post-war period for continued British Army service. Such slings are frequently encountered on retained training, reserve, and Drill Purpose rifles and are entirely appropriate in this context.
Approx. Measurements - Overall length: 113 cm. Barrel length: 62.5 cm
Historical Note:
The Short Magazine Lee-Enfield Mk III was the standard British infantry rifle from 1907 through the First World War and remained in service well into the Second World War. Manufactured at Enfield in 1915, this rifle dates from the height of wartime production and retains the full Mk III feature set, including magazine cut-off and windage-adjustable rear sight.
Following frontline service, many SMLE rifles were later withdrawn from ball firing and reclassified as Drill Purpose (D.P.) arms. This designation was applied by unit armourers to rifles no longer considered suitable for live service, allowing them to be retained for drill, training, and ceremonial use while replacements were issued. DP rifles were not post-war fabrications, but genuine service arms with documented military careers.
The presence of the H.V. marking confirms that this rifle was updated for Mk VII ammunition after its original manufacture, further reinforcing its long service life prior to DP conversion. As such, this example represents a clear and honest illustration of the operational evolution of the SMLE during and after the Great War.
*Condition*
Cocks and dry-fires. Metalwork shows honest service wear with a uniform aged patina, consistent with wartime manufacture and later training use. All principal markings remain legible. The woodwork displays expected handling marks and service wear, with a visible period repair to the buttstock, typical of rifles retained in military use rather than refurbished for disposal. No evidence of heavy sanding or modern refinishing is present. The sling shows age and use but remains complete and in good condition. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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