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Enfield conversion

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30 January 2014, 22:17
Sean1975
Enfield conversion
Hi all,

I've been reading, not just here, that a caliber conversion to a big bore can be done on an enfield. I own am enfield but I'm wondering if it's the same beast and if so I might do it. I have a no1 mkiii in 303. Is this the rifle in question or is it a Mauser style action? I only ask because I've experienced headspace issues with mine and had to correct them from bolt elasticity due to rear locking lugs and not front.
30 January 2014, 23:31
capoward
Presuming that you're asking about a P14 or M17 Enfield, then yes it is a Mauser style action.


Jim coffee
"Life's hard; it's harder if you're stupid"
John Wayne
30 January 2014, 23:53
theback40
If it is a rear locking lugs you have a ShortMagazineLeeEnfield or SMLE/smelly for short.
No you can not make a .375 H&H or other high power round on this action.
31 January 2014, 00:01
WoodHunter
quote:
Originally posted by Sean1975:
Hi all,

I've been reading, not just here, that a caliber conversion to a big bore can be done on an enfield. I own am enfield but I'm wondering if it's the same beast and if so I might do it. I have a no1 mkiii in 303. Is this the rifle in question or is it a Mauser style action? I only ask because I've experienced headspace issues with mine and had to correct them from bolt elasticity due to rear locking lugs and not front.


Two totally different actions. P14 and P17 Enfields have two locking lugs in the front receiver ring similar to a Mauser.

Below is a BSA conversion of a P14/17 type Enfield:




Bottom view of a P-14 showing its capability with some 458 and 500 cal. cartridges. It is a nice big action.


02 February 2014, 08:02
Rule 303
quote:
Originally posted by Sean1975:
Hi all,

I've been reading, not just here, that a caliber conversion to a big bore can be done on an enfield. I own am enfield but I'm wondering if it's the same beast and if so I might do it. I have a no1 mkiii in 303. Is this the rifle in question or is it a Mauser style action? I only ask because I've experienced headspace issues with mine and had to correct them from bolt elasticity due to rear locking lugs and not front.


As other have said you want the P14/M17 action. Your SMLE action might of had the wrong bolt head- to short - hence head space problems. The Bolt head screws off and armourers were supplied with bolt heads in different lenghts so they could headspace in the field/battalion level if needed.