Enfield No8 MkI Training Rifle Crate .22LR Single Shot Bolt Action C&R
SOLD FOR: $1500
LSB#: 211019RH01
Title: Enfield No8 MkI Training Rifle Crate .22LR Single Shot Bolt Action C&R
Make: BSA Shirley, England
Model: No8 MkI. .22 Target Rifle.
Serial Number: A15184
Year of Manufacture: 1951
Caliber: .303 British
Action Type: Single Shot Bolt Action
Markings: There is no visible import mark. The left side of the receiver is marked “No.8 Mk.I” and with the serial number. The left side of the stock collar is marked “CR 324”, “M47C” (the code for BSA Shirley), and “1951”. The right side of the stock collar, bolt body and rear of the bolt handle are marked with partial British stamps. The rear of the bolt handle is marked with numbers that do not match the serial number. The magazine well cover is marked “M 47C / 1950 / CR 345”. The nose of the stock is marked with the serial number. The sling is marked with a faded stamping that appears to read “H.F. Co. 1946”. There are a few other small marks on the rifle.
The wood crate is painted “CHEST. S.A. No.15. Mk.I.” and “No 8” on the front. It is painted “No 8” on the top.
Barrel Length: Approximately 23 ¼ Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bladed post set between 2 protective ears. The rear sight is a fixed aperture when down. It flips up to become a sight ladder that uses an adjustable aperture. The ladder is marked “25 50 100”.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The hardwood stock has a pistol grip, barrel band, 3 sling loops, and a rubber coated metal buttplate. The buttplate shows scrapes, scratches, and a separation along the top. The wood shows a few scrapes & scratches and well as areas of discoloration. The LOP measures 13 ¾ inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good Plus to Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Black Gun Paint over Oil Darkened Metal
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright; semi bright near the muzzle. The rifling is crisp. There is some fouling and frosting near the muzzle. The fouling should clean up some.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The metal shows several scrapes & scratches that have removed areas of the black paint finish. The exposed oil darkened metal shows discoloration from oxidation. The receiver also shows areas of dried oil or grease that should clean up. Some of the screw heads show heavy use. The markings are faded. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: The rifle comes with its wooden transit crate. The white paint markings are bright. The smaller black markings are light. The wood case has metal hinges, metal latches, interior leather attachments, and leather straps for carrying. The wood inside the case holds the rifle in position. It uses wooden inserts to do this. The top & bottom inserts are covered in felt. The top inserts are secured by thin cords so they will not be lost. The wood shows several scuffs, scrapes & scratches. Overall the case is in about Very Good Plus condition. The rifle has a web sling attached. The sling shows soiling, discoloration, and fraying on the webbing as well as oxidation on the metal. Overall it is in about Good condition.
Our Assessment: The British No.8 MkI was initially intended to be used only by the British Army (the Land Service). In 1950 the No8 rifle’s role was expanded to cover all three services. Unlike the other trainers made up to this point, the No8 MkI was designed as a target and competition rifle, instead of a service rifle reduced in caliber. It has a heave barrel, a nice trigger converter to cock on open, and a heavy competition type stock.
This No.8 MkI is in Very Good Plus condition and comes in its wooden transit crate. It will add to your Enfield collection and should do well out at the range. Good luck.