Thread: SMLE 303

Thanks granpamac , i didnt even notice those marks on the barrel . I was kinda excited about it because its a old rifle and would be a piece of history.

Originally Posted by Jusepy

Thanks granpamac , i didnt even notice those marks on the barrel . I was kinda excited about it because its a old rifle and would be a piece of history.

I managed to get a really good Lithgow sporter (same year as the one on TM) off this forum 18 months ago for $150.
But 303s seem to have doubled in price since then and some really rubbish ones are now selling for way more than their worth.
Just look at the ridiculous prices Guncity are asking for both fully wooded and POS sporterised ones.
Its still fun owning them though. But not as a primary hunting rifle.

Originally Posted by Jusepy

Thanks granpamac , i didnt even notice those marks on the barrel . I was kinda excited about it because its a old rifle and would be a piece of history.

Greetings again Jusepy,
Thanks for your reply. My early experience with .303 rifles drove me nuts. Handloading for them (yes there were two, a number 1 Parker Hale conversion and a jungle carbine) was a very steep learning curve for a novice. After a few years they were replaced with a Rem 700 .308 which I still have over 40 years later. Handloading was a dream. More recently two .303 rifles have joined the crew. I handload for both of them much more easily having learnt how to get around most of their problems. They are both no 4 rifles made in 1942. The iron sighted one gets taken to the range from time to time and the scoped one gets taken into the bush for the odd ritual hunt (no expectations of any need to make loud noises or carry anything heavy). The latter rifle belonged to a friend who left the planet way too early and I always think of him when I load for it or carry it.
You will likely find your own odd ball rifles that mean something to you and you will know them when you see them.
All the best and regards Grandpamac.