Offered here is an original Canadian-produced Long Branch No.4 Mk I* Lee-Enfield rifle chambered in .303 British, manufactured in 1942, one of the earliest production years at the Long Branch Small Arms factory in Ontario during the Second World War.
The receiver is correctly marked "No.4 Mk I / LONG BRANCH / 1942,"* identifying this rifle as an early wartime Canadian production. The Mk I* variant incorporates the simplified bolt release system adopted by Long Branch to increase wartime manufacturing efficiency while retaining the excellent strength and reliability for which the Lee-Enfield is known.
This example retains its matching serialized bolt, an increasingly desirable feature on military surplus Lee-Enfield rifles. The rifle is fitted with the correct early flip rear sight, proper Long Branch front sight protector assembly, and an original Canadian-pattern magazine marked SMC (Small Arms Metal Company). The zinc alloy buttplate carries the correct LCO marking associated with wartime Canadian production.
The metal finish remains in very good military condition with honest service wear throughout. The walnut stock displays an attractive original appearance with expected handling marks from military service but no significant structural issues observed.
The bore is especially impressive, remaining bright with strong, sharp rifling, making this rifle equally attractive to collectors and shooters.
A highly desirable early-war Canadian Lee-Enfield that represents one of the finest Commonwealth service rifles of the Second World War.
