Britain’s Only Repeating Enfield Trainer: the No7 Mk I

Published on June 12, 2018
Duration: 6:21

This guide details the disassembly of the British No. 7 Mk I Enfield Trainer, focusing on its unique repeating action. It covers the specific modifications to the bolt and magazine that allow for .22 caliber rimfire use. Expert instruction from Ian McCollum of Forgotten Weapons highlights the historical significance and mechanical intricacies of this rare training rifle.

Quick Summary

The British No. 7 Mk I Enfield Trainer is a rare .22 caliber rifle distinguished by its repeating action and 5-round box magazine, unlike most single-shot British trainers. Developed by BSA and produced in limited numbers around 1948 for the Royal Air Force, it features significant modifications to the bolt and receiver to accommodate the smaller cartridge, including a shortened bolt throw and a unique magazine system.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: No. 7 Mk I Enfield Trainer
  2. 00:30Unique Repeating Action Explained
  3. 00:58Production History & Military Adoption
  4. 01:24Receiver Markings & Modifications
  5. 01:55Bolt & Barrel Modifications Detailed
  6. 02:36Magazine Design and Function
  7. 03:27Bolt Head & Extractors Analysis
  8. 04:39Firing Pin Assembly Breakdown
  9. 05:07Sight Configuration and Zeroing
  10. 05:35Conclusion: Collectibility and Rarity

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the British No. 7 Mk I Enfield Trainer unique among .22 caliber training rifles?

The British No. 7 Mk I is unique because it's a repeating rifle, featuring a 5-round box magazine. This contrasts with most other British .22 trainers, which are single-shot, and even the Canadian No. 7 Mk I, which is also single-shot.

What were the key modifications made to the No. 7 Mk I Enfield Trainer's bolt?

The bolt was substantially altered, featuring a much shorter bolt throw (half the length of a standard No. 4 rifle). The bolt head was also modified with scallops for magazine feeding and included auxiliary extractors to handle the small .22 cases.

How does the magazine system of the No. 7 Mk I Enfield Trainer work?

It uses a blocked-off outer Enfield magazine shell that houses an inner BSA .22 caliber rimfire magazine insert. This insert is reversed to fit correctly within the larger shell, allowing for repeated feeding.

What is the production history of the British No. 7 Mk I Enfield Trainer?

Developed by BSA after World War II, only about 2,500 No. 7 Mk I rifles were produced for the Royal Air Force and delivered in 1948. The British military later adopted the No. 8 rifle as their standard trainer.

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