Wartime Evolution of the No4 Lee Enfield Rear Sight

Published on June 23, 2020
Duration: 7:27

This guide details the wartime evolution of the No4 Lee Enfield rear sight, from the early Mk1 micrometer sight to the simplified Mk2 'L' sight and the mass-produced Mk3 stamped sight. It covers identification of these variations and explains common marking confusions, offering valuable insights for collectors and enthusiasts of the Lee Enfield platform.

Quick Summary

The No4 Lee Enfield rear sight evolved significantly during wartime. The original Mk1 was a precise micrometer sight, but production issues led to the simplified Mk2 'L' flip sight and the mass-producible Mk3 stamped sight. Understanding these variations and their markings is key for identification.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to No4 Mk1 Sight
  2. 01:15Wartime Production Bottlenecks
  3. 02:04The Mk2 'L' Flip Sight
  4. 03:26The Mk3 and Mk4 Stamped Sights
  5. 05:43Marking Confusion and Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main types of No4 Lee Enfield rear sights discussed?

The video discusses the evolution from the finely machined Mk1 micrometer sight to the simplified Mk2 'L' flip sight, and the mass-produced Mk3 stamped sight. A minor iteration, the Mk4, is also mentioned.

Why was the rear sight design simplified during WWII?

The original Mk1 micrometer sight was a production bottleneck, especially for US manufacturers like Savage. Simplification to designs like the Mk2 and Mk3 was necessary to meet wartime production demands and reduce manufacturing complexity.

How can I identify a Mk3 No4 Lee Enfield rear sight?

The Mk3 sight is characterized by its stamped steel construction and features a 400-yard battle sight with a slider adjustable from 200-1300 yards. Be aware that Mk3 leaves are sometimes marked 'Mk2'.

What is the difference between the Mk2 and Mk3 rear sights?

The Mk2 is a basic 'L' shaped flip sight with fixed 300 and 600-yard apertures. The Mk3 is an adjustable leaf sight using stamped construction, offering a wider range of adjustment.

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