1942/51 Lithgow SMLE No 1 Mk III* .303 Brit — All-Matching Bolt, Full Military (Cash/Trades)
- Category
- Firearms Rifles
- Classification
- Non-restricted
- Action
- Bolt
- Condition
- Very Good
- Manufacturer
- Lithgow
- Caliber
- 303 Brit.
- Sight
- Iron
- Capacity
- 10
- Hand
- Right Handed or Ambidextrous
- Model
- Lee Enfield
Mainly looking to trade my unsporterized, full military configuration Australian Lithgow Lee Enfield, but I am open to reasonable cash offers if a trade doesn't happen. I recently had this rifle appraised at Ramakko’s at $1,200 CAD, which is the value I am setting on it. This is a clean, honest, and completely documented piece of Commonwealth history that runs like an absolute machine. Trades are heavily preferred as I’m looking to change up the safe.
The receiver itself is an E-prefix WWII build (serial E 12728) from the Orange Annexe and bears the official Australian Department of Defence D^D ownership stamps. Crucially, the bolt handle is a perfect, factory stamped serial match to the receiver (E 12728), which is the holy grail for Enfield headspace peace of mind and collector value. The rear receiver socket is also vertically stamped with assembly number 144956 and a Bathurst Annexe BA mark. The action went back to the main Lithgow facility in 1951 for a complete Factory Thorough Repair, clearly stamped MA 51 and FTR.
During its 1951/52 rebuild, it was fitted with a pristine set of 1952 dated Slazenger Coachwood furniture (SLAZ 52) featuring a clear Broad Arrow and GP inspector mark. It also sports a Bathurst-made BA nose cap, a 1952 dated proof tested 52 P bolt head, and a vintage white rack number 202 painted on the stock. The top handguard is a British military replacement hand stamped with assembly number 175, which is very typical for post-war Commonwealth service. It comes paired with a canvas military sling.
Mechanically, this SMLE is in stellar shape. The action is butter smooth and rock solid. Unlike many surplus rifles from this era, the bore has been thoroughly deep cleaned and is dead bright and shiny with sharp, distinct rifling lands. It feeds, cycles, and extracts perfectly.
Trade Interests & Terms
Trade Interests: Mainly looking to trade for classic lever-action rifles, hunting rifles, or interesting modern firearms (no .22 please 🤙) ideally semi auto or lever action. Send me a message with what you have to trade, or a cash offer around the $1,200 appraisal mark.
Location & Shipping: Local face to face trade in the Sudbury/Chelmsford area, but I am willing to ship Canada wide at the buyer's expense for a cash sale or shared expense for a trade.
PAL Verification: A valid PAL is an absolute requirement and will be verified online prior to finalizing any deal.
Thanks for looking! Send a message if you want specific photos or details.