The Lee Speed

Published on February 26, 2021
Duration: 8:49

This expert-level entry delves into the 1898 Lee Speed rifle, a sporting variant of the Lee Metford/Lee Enfield. It highlights the rifle's historical significance, design features by James Paris Lee, and the craftsmanship of finishers like Army & Navy. The content emphasizes its aesthetic appeal, practical accuracy for its era, and its place in firearms history, contrasting it with modern rifles and earlier designs like the Mauser 98.

Quick Summary

The 1898 Lee Speed rifle, a sporting variant of the Lee Metford/Lee Enfield, features James Paris Lee's detachable magazine and a rear-locking bolt system. Crafted by makers like BSA and finished by entities such as Army & Navy Co-operative Society, it boasts aesthetic appeal and practical accuracy for its era, achieving around 3-inch groups at 60 meters with open sights.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Lee Speed Rifle
  2. 00:37Identifying the 1898 Lee Speed Rifle
  3. 01:02Lee Speed Design Features: James Paris Lee & Bolt System
  4. 01:50Aesthetics and Craftsmanship of the Lee Speed
  5. 02:39Barrel and Sight Details: Horn Tip, Rib, and Sights
  6. 03:13Origin of the 'Speed' Name
  7. 03:37Variations and Finishers: BSA vs. Army & Navy
  8. 04:57Famous Users and History of Army & Navy
  9. 06:00Lee Speed vs. Mauser 98 & Value Comparison
  10. 06:45Accuracy and Recoil Management of the Lee Speed
  11. 07:55Passion for Craftsmanship: The Art of the Lee Speed

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the 'Lee' and 'Speed' in the Lee Speed rifle's name?

The 'Lee' in Lee Speed refers to James Paris Lee, the designer of the rifle's innovative detachable magazine system. The 'Speed' designation originates from the manager or director of the Royal Small Arms Factory Enfield, where these rifles were produced or finished.

What are the key design features of the 1898 Lee Speed rifle?

The 1898 Lee Speed rifle features a rear-locking bolt system, a detachable magazine, a higher-grade wood stock with well-executed checkering, a metal heel plate, and a round bolt knob. It also includes a mag cut-off and a flat-filed barrel rib with adjustable sights.

How does the accuracy of the Lee Speed rifle compare to modern firearms?

While not comparable to modern sub-MOA rifles, the 1898 Lee Speed can achieve approximately a 3-inch group at 60 meters with open sights, which was considered good for its era and sufficient for hunting deer at moderate ranges. It handles recoil well.

What is the historical context of the Army & Navy Co-operative Society Limited in relation to firearms?

The Army & Navy Co-operative Society Limited was an early department store that shipped goods globally, including firearms. They produced higher-standard sporting variants of rifles like the Lee Speed, catering to officers and offering a level of craftsmanship beyond standard military issue.

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