Scarce First Year Lee Enfield SMLE Mk. V Rifle 303 British 1922

Serial #1272, .303 British, 25" barrel with an excellent, bright bore.  This 1922 dated, "ENFIELD" marked rifle retains 90-92% of the original blue finish with some silvering and fading along the exposed edges, projections, and contact points.  The matching numbered bolt has some brown freckling along the handle and some areas of darker mottling the brightly finished body.  The original flip-up aperture rear sight is complete, the distinctive Mk. V safety is present, as is the magazine cut-off.  The forend, handguards, and buttstock have been arsenal refinished to excellent condition with nice added military oil finish, and minor handling marks scattered about. There is a hairline crack at the top rear of the lower handguard.  A single Broad Arrow-stamped magazine is included, that has a mixed blue and plum-brown patina throughout.  The SMLE Mk. V is a fascinating model, a link between the No. 1 and No. 4 series rifles, with about 20,000 manufactured between 1922 and 1924.  While not a general issue rifle, the Mk. V saw limited use and many were subsequently sent to Greece and Ireland where they did see service.  This desirable example is in fine condition overall, and would make a great addition to a collection.  FFL or C&R