Odd BSA Prototype Charger Bridge Long Lee

Published on September 1, 2021
Duration: 3:57

This video examines a rare commercial BSA Long Lee rifle prototype featuring a unique fixed charger bridge. Ian McCollum, an expert in historical firearms, details the rifle's unusual design elements, including patent markings ('P.PAT', 'PATENT 5945/04') and various proof marks. The prototype's exact place in the development of the Lee-Enfield charger bridge remains a historical enigma, likely predating the full adoption of the SMLE's design.

Quick Summary

The BSA Prototype Charger-Bridge Enfield is a rare commercial prototype featuring a unique fixed charger guide, unlike standard Long Lee or SMLE designs. It bears 'P.PAT' on the guide and 'PATENT 5945/04' on the bolt head, with 'Nitro Proved' markings on the barrel, suggesting post-1904 development.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to BSA Prototype Long Lee
  2. 00:45Close-up of Unique Charger Guide
  3. 01:32Comparison to Standard Lee-Enfield Charger Guides
  4. 02:11Rifle Markings and Numbers
  5. 02:53Conundrum of the Prototype's Place in History
  6. 03:09Conclusion: Uncertain Origins

Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about the BSA Prototype Charger-Bridge Enfield's charger guide?

This BSA prototype features an unusual fixed charger guide that doesn't match standard Long Lee or SMLE designs. Early Long Lees lacked guides, while later models had either moving parts on the bolt head or guides milled into the receiver. This prototype's guide is fixed and has sharply cut corners.

What patent information is visible on the BSA Prototype Charger-Bridge Enfield?

The charger guide is marked 'P.PAT' for Provisional Patent, indicating an experimental design. The bolt head bears a patent marking 'PATENT 5945/04', suggesting the rifle was developed or manufactured after 1904.

What proof marks are present on the BSA Prototype Charger-Bridge Enfield?

The barrel of the BSA prototype displays several proof marks, including 'BV', 'NP' (for Nitro Proof), and 'NITRO PROVED', confirming it was tested and approved for use with smokeless powder. Steel supplier codes are also visible.

What is the historical significance of the BSA Prototype Charger-Bridge Enfield?

This rifle is considered a commercial prototype or experimental piece that fills a 'hole in history.' Its specific role in the development of the Lee-Enfield charger bridge is unclear, but it likely predates the full adoption of the SMLE's integrated charger bridge design.

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