British, WW2, Enfield Bren MkI .303 Light Machine Gun with Bipod, Dated 1941, Deactivated

*British, WW2, Enfield Bren MkI .303 Light Machine Gun with Bipod, Dated 1941, Deactivated*

A deactivated British Second World War Bren MkI .303 Light Machine Gun, serial number L2027, manufactured at Enfield in 1941 (receiver marked “D 1941”). The gun retains its MkI pattern fittings, including the adjustable bipod, early-style carrying handle, and fluted flash hider.

The barrel (serial N7849S / 93388) is a wartime replacement dated 1942, stamped with Crown over crossed flags over “DPC” (Director of Proof, Crown) and broad arrow inspection ovals numbered “70” and “82.” These markings confirm it as a British-inspected spare fitted in service.

Factory Thorough Repair at Enfield is marked “F.T.R. 1.52”, showing it was overhauled in January 1952, during which Commonwealth-manufactured parts were fitted: Australian (Lithgow) components — butt plate marked “MA,” magazine catch marked “MA,” stock marked “L / 2 / S” with crown inspection marks “32/L,” and pistol grip marked “SL 41” with crown inspection marks “1/S” and “33/L.” Canadian components — broad arrow over “C/A” inspection marking inside the magazine housing.

Matching serial L2027 is present on the receiver and painted on the barrel release locking lever. The rear sight is the original adjustable MkI pattern.

Deactivated to current UK/EU specification by MJL Militaria with Birmingham Proof House certificate dated March 2025. Barrel length 64cm; overall length 115cm.

Historical Note
The Bren MkI, adopted by the British Army in 1938, became the backbone of section firepower during WWII. This 1941 Enfield-produced example represents early war production, with the complex machining and quality finish typical of the MkI pattern.

The F.T.R. 1952 overhaul was part of a major postwar programme, ensuring service weapons were battle-ready during the early Cold War and Korean War periods. Commonwealth parts interchangeability was standard, with Australian (Lithgow) and Canadian-made components freely fitted to British guns. This example, retaining parts from across the Commonwealth, reflects the Bren’s truly international service life.

*Condition*
Overall very good for a service-used example. Wooden stock and pistol grip show handling marks consistent with operational use and later overhaul. Metalwork retains good finish with clear Enfield, Lithgow, and Canadian proof and inspection marks. Bipod folds and locks correctly; carrying handle intact. Deactivation to 2018 UK/EU specification: action cycles, trigger moves, chamber blocked, barrel pinned. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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