Charger-Loading Lee Enfields: The CLLE MkI* and MkII

Published on January 6, 2021
Duration: 9:14

The Charger-Loading Lee Enfield (CLLE) program modernized hundreds of thousands of older 'Long Lee' and Metford rifles starting in 1908. Key upgrades included a fixed charger bridge for stripper clip loading, modified bolts, and improved sights with windage adjustment. These converted rifles, designated MkI* and MkII, served extensively in WWI and WWII as secondary and training weapons, extending the life of obsolete hardware.

Quick Summary

The Charger-Loading Lee Enfield (CLLE) program modernized 'Long Lee' and Metford rifles with a charger bridge for stripper clip loading. Key upgrades included modified bolts, improved sights with windage, and updated front sights, extending the service life of these rifles through WWI and WWII.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to CLLE Rifles
  2. 01:43Receiver Markings and Conversions
  3. 02:24The Charger Bridge Modification
  4. 03:16Bolt and Sight Updates
  5. 04:38Front Sight and Magazine Changes
  6. 06:02CLLE MkII and Over-stamping
  7. 08:08Production History and Service Use

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the purpose of the Charger-Loading Lee Enfield (CLLE) program?

The CLLE program modernized older 'Long Lee' and Metford Lee Enfield rifles by adding a charger bridge for stripper clip loading. This extended the service life of hundreds of thousands of rifles, allowing newer SMLE models to be deployed to the front lines.

What are the key visual differences between a standard 'Long Lee' and a CLLE rifle?

The most significant difference is the addition of a fixed charger bridge over the receiver on the CLLE. Additionally, the CLLE bolt lacks a dust cover and mounting lugs compared to the original 'Long Lee' bolt.

How did the CLLE modifications affect the rifle's sights?

CLLE rifles received upgraded rear sights featuring windage adjustment and recalibrated range scales for modern ammunition like the Mark VII .303. The front sight was also updated with protector wings and a square post.

What is the significance of the MkII designation on CLLE rifles?

The MkII designation typically refers to conversions from Metford-rifled rifles. Many MkII rifles were over-stamped during WWI to standardize designations, often changing 'M' to 'E' and 'II' to 'I*' as they were issued for service.

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