NRA Gun of the Week: Short, Magazine Lee-Enfield Mk III Rifle

Published on December 2, 2016
Duration: 3:31

This "Gun of the Week" episode features the Short Magazine Lee-Enfield (SMLE) Mk III rifle, specifically a 1913 BSA-manufactured example for the Australian government. The presenter, Mark Keef, highlights early features like the magazine cutoff and long-range volley sights, explaining their historical context and tactical purpose during World War I. He also details the rifle's action, its lineage from James Lee's designs, and the evolution of the Lee-Enfield family.

Quick Summary

The Short Magazine Lee-Enfield (SMLE) Mk III rifle, particularly early models, featured a magazine cutoff for reserving ammunition and long-range volley sights effective up to 2600 yards. Its fast action, with rear-locking bolt surfaces, made it rapid to operate. The rifle's lineage traces back to James Lee's detachable magazine design.

Chapters

  1. 00:21Introduction to SMLE Mk III
  2. 00:43Magazine Cutoff Feature
  3. 01:08Long Range Volley Sights
  4. 01:43Lee-Enfield Action Speed
  5. 01:57History of the Lee-Enfield Rifle
  6. 02:36Boer War Influence on Design
  7. 02:51British Army Marksmanship
  8. 03:04More Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a magazine cutoff on a Short Magazine Lee-Enfield Mk III?

The magazine cutoff on an SMLE Mk III allows the shooter to keep rounds in the magazine in reserve. This enables single-loading of cartridges into the chamber without depleting the magazine, providing a tactical advantage for conserving ammunition until needed.

What were the long-range volley sights on the SMLE Mk III used for?

The long-range volley sights on early SMLE Mk III rifles were designed for accurate fire up to 2600 yards. They were intended to allow British riflemen to lay down suppressive fire on enemy positions, a crucial tactic before widespread machine gun use.

Why is the Lee-Enfield action considered fast?

The Lee-Enfield action is known for its speed because its locking surfaces are located at the rear of the bolt. This design allows for very rapid manipulation of the bolt compared to rifles with front-locking bolts like the Mauser or Springfield.

What is the origin of the Lee-Enfield rifle name?

The Lee-Enfield name comes from James Lee, who invented the detachable box magazine, and the Enfield rifling developed by the Royal Small Arms Factory, Enfield. Early versions were Lee-Metford, later transitioning to accommodate cordite propellant with five-groove Enfield rifling.

More General Videos You Might Like

More from NRApubs

View all →