Lee-Speed Military Model Commercial Enfield

Published on January 27, 2017
Duration: 15:34

This guide covers the operational and maintenance aspects of the Lee-Speed Military Model Commercial Enfield, a variant of the Lee-Enfield rifle. It details the rifle's unique features like the cocking piece safety, cartridge cutoff, volley sights, and the constant-force flat spring magazine. The information is presented with high authority by Ian McCollum, a recognized expert in historical firearms, emphasizing the craftsmanship and historical context of this rifle.

Quick Summary

The Lee-Speed Military Model Commercial Enfield is a high-quality commercial version of the British Mark I* Lee-Enfield/Metford rifle. It features James Paris Lee's detachable box magazine, Joseph Speed's patented improvements, and specialized sights like volley sights for long-range indirect fire. Its markings, such as 'For Cordite Only', highlight its historical context and ammunition considerations.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Lee-Speed Rifle
  2. 00:38The Names Behind the Rifle
  3. 02:42Who was Joseph Speed?
  4. 03:52Commercial Patterns and Markets
  5. 07:05Technical Features: Safety and Cutoff
  6. 09:22Sighting Systems
  7. 11:52Magazine and Markings

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lee-Speed Military Model Commercial Enfield?

The Lee-Speed Military Model Commercial Enfield is a commercial variant of the British military's Lee-Enfield or Lee-Metford bolt-action rifle, known for its quality craftsmanship and historical significance.

Who invented the detachable box magazine used in the Lee-Speed rifle?

The 'Lee' part of the name refers to James Paris Lee, the inventor of the detachable box magazine system that became a hallmark of the Lee-Enfield series of rifles.

What were the 'volley sights' on the Lee-Speed rifle used for?

The volley sights, typically located on the side of the rifle and graduated for long ranges (1600-2800 yards), were intended for indirect fire or coordinated firing by military units.

Why is the 'For Cordite Only' marking important on a Lee-Speed rifle?

This marking indicates the rifle was designed and proofed for Cordite, an early smokeless powder. It serves as a warning against using modern, potentially higher-pressure ammunition without verifying compatibility.

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