I Have This Old Gun: British Lee-Enfield No. 4 (T) Sniper Rifle

Published on December 31, 2018
Duration: 7:08

This guide details the assembly of the Lee-Enfield No. 4 (T) sniper rifle kit, as presented by Mark A. Keefe IV, Editor-in-Chief of American Rifleman. It covers unpacking the transit chest, attaching the scope and cheekpiece, verifying serial numbers for authenticity, and ensuring all accessories are present. The information emphasizes the historical significance and collectible nature of this World War II sniper platform.

Quick Summary

The Lee-Enfield No. 4 (T) is a highly collectible World War II sniper rifle, renowned for its ruggedness and reliability. Conversions were performed by prestigious firms like Holland & Holland, featuring the No. 32 telescope and matching serial numbers for accuracy. Many were later converted to the L42A1 standard in 7.62 NATO.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to the Lee-Enfield No. 4 (T)
  2. 00:23Development and Manufacturing
  3. 00:59Holland & Holland Conversion
  4. 01:18Optics and Serial Matching
  5. 02:11Ruggedness in Sniper Rifles
  6. 03:16Design Features and Accessories
  7. 04:51Post-War Service and L42A1 Conversion
  8. 05:56Collectibility and Market Warning

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Lee-Enfield No. 4 (T) a collectible sniper rifle?

The Lee-Enfield No. 4 (T) is highly collectible due to its role in WWII, its precise Holland & Holland conversion, the use of the No. 32 telescope, and its robust design. Genuine examples with matching serial numbers and original kits command high prices among collectors.

How was the Lee-Enfield No. 4 (T) converted for sniper use?

Initial conversions were done at the Royal Small Arms Factory, with final, high-quality conversions performed by Holland & Holland. These involved fitting the No. 32 scope mounts and ensuring accuracy through serial number matching between the rifle and scope.

What is the significance of the 'S51' marking on a Lee-Enfield No. 4 (T)?

The 'S51' marking, typically found on the underside of the buttstock, indicates that the rifle underwent its final sniper conversion and inspection by the prestigious firm Holland & Holland, a key authentication point for collectors.

What were the key features of the Lee-Enfield No. 4 (T) sniper rifle?

Key features include the No. 32 telescope for aiming, a wooden cheekpiece for proper eye alignment with the scope, and a robust construction prioritizing reliability in combat. It was issued as a complete kit in a wooden transit chest.

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