*British, Interwar, .303″ Birmingham Small Arms (B.S.A) ShtLE Mk III Bolt-Action Rifle, Dated 1938, Deactivated*
This is a classic British military service rifle: The Short Magazine Lee-Enfield (SMLE) Mk III, officially marked ShtLE Mk III, is a bolt-action rifle made in 1938 by Birmingham Small Arms Company (B.S.A.C Co.). It is a highly presentable, matching-numbered receiver and sight, 1938-dated ShtLE Mk III rifle with correct BSA markings, Australian butt tang stamp, and typical mixed bolt. Sympathetically restored or arsenal-refinished and fully deactivated to legal UK specification. The Mk III was a pivotal infantry rifle used by British and Commonwealth forces in both World Wars and beyond.
Maker: Birmingham Small Arms Co. (B.S.A.C Co.)
Calibre: .303 British
Serial Number: L 39256
Barrel Length: 25″
Markings and Features
– Trigger guard collar: Crisp Crown over “G.R.” (George Rex), “B.S.A.C Co.”, “1938”, “SHT L.E III”.
– Receiver ring proofs (obverse side): Crown over “BM”, along with Birmingham proof and deactivation marks, including crossed flags and “BNP” (Birmingham Nitro Proof), confirming civilian deactivation.
– Receiver serial number: L 39256, matching to sight leaf and barrel top.
– Barrel top: “BSA” crest with additional proof marks, crossed flags indicating individual inspection, and British acceptance marks.
– Sight leaf: Numbered L 39256 (matching).
– Bolt handle: Numbered 8975 (non-matching, typical of arsenal repairs).
– Safety lever: Marked “III” with broad arrow acceptance mark.
– Underside of bolt: Stamped “STA” under broad arrow; this is an inspector’s or factory assembly mark.
– Trigger guard: Crown over “P7” over “E” (Enfield inspection or sub-assembly mark).
– Butt socket tang: Marked “OA” — an Australian marking, suggesting the rifle was overhauled or stored in Australia at some point (common in Commonwealth service rifles).
– Butt disc: Plain brass identification disc, typical late-war/post-war practice.
– Brass butt plate: Trap door present (cleaning kit cavity empty); shows patina and service wear.
Historical Context
The SMLE Mk III was standard issue from 1907 through WWII, known for its fast cycling and ruggedness. The 1938 BSA-dated rifles were part of the interwar rearmament push, produced in smaller numbers compared to WWI (BSA alone produced over 1.5 million during WWI).
The “OA” marking indicates this rifle likely saw service in Australia or passed through their inventory after WWII, where many British rifles were refurbished.
*Configuration and Condition*
This Mk III features the simplified wartime pattern with: No magazine cut-off; No volley sights; No windage adjustment on the rear sight. The bolt cocks but the trigger does not engage. The woodwork is clean and likely refinished or replaced during refurbishment, as evidenced by sharp edges and uniform colour. Metal parts display service-worn blue/black finish consistent with arsenal rework. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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