A Rare Navy Stopgap: the CLLE MkI Naval Enfield

Published on September 6, 2021
Duration: 5:24

The CLLE MkI Naval Enfield was a rare British Navy conversion of older Long Lee rifles, modernized in 1911-1912 for Mark VII high-velocity ammunition and stripper clip use. These rifles, originally BSA Lee-Metford MkIIs, received charger bridges and modified dust covers. Rear sights were recalibrated for the flatter trajectory of HV ammo, marked with 'HV' and graduated to 1900 yards.

Quick Summary

The CLLE MkI Naval Enfield was a rare British Navy conversion of older Long Lee rifles in 1911-1912. It adapted them for Mark VII high-velocity ammunition and stripper clip loading by adding a charger bridge and removing the dust cover. Rear sights were recalibrated and marked 'HV'.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: CLLE MkI Naval Enfield
  2. 00:23Historical Context: Navy Conversion
  3. 01:06Conversion Purpose: HV Ammo & Clips
  4. 02:06Markings: BSA & LSA
  5. 02:34Technical Mods: Charger Bridge
  6. 03:24Sight Adjustments: HV Stamp
  7. 04:32Conclusion: Rare Stopgap

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the CLLE MkI Naval Enfield conversion?

The CLLE MkI Naval Enfield conversion was performed for the British Navy in 1911-1912 to modernize older Long Lee rifles. The goal was to adapt them for newer Mark VII high-velocity ammunition and enable the use of stripper clips via added charger bridges.

What specific modifications were made to the CLLE MkI Naval Enfield?

Key modifications included the addition of a charger bridge to the receiver for stripper clips and the removal of the original bolt dust cover. Rear sights were also recalibrated and marked 'HV' for the flatter trajectory of Mark VII ammunition.

What are the key markings to look for on a CLLE MkI Naval Enfield?

A CLLE MkI Naval Enfield will often show original manufacture markings, such as an 1894 BSA mark for a Lee-Metford MkII, alongside later conversion markings from around 1910, often indicating LSA (London Small Arms) and the 'C.L.L.E. I' designation.

What ammunition type was the CLLE MkI Naval Enfield designed for?

The CLLE MkI Naval Enfield was specifically converted to handle Mark VII high-velocity ammunition. This required recalibrating the rear sights to account for the flatter trajectory of this newer ammunition type.

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