I loaded some 303 Brit up with 41.0 gr of IMR4895 and 174gr Hornady (.312") soft points. The books I have this load as a mid-range load delivering 2380 fps - 2401 fps (depending upon source).

Well here is what I got:

2181
2170
2213
2177
2224
2192
2245
2214
2221
2198
2229
2184
2205
2212
2223
2239 - blown primer
2220 - blown primer

All the rounds had had flattened primers. As indicated 2 primers blew. This isn't a SMLE rifle, either. The barrel bore measures .3119".

Thought some may find the data useful / interesting.

Scott

Try IMR 4320. It's great in this cartridge.

What is a SMLE 303?

How can I tell and what are the problems with this type.

I have an old one that my father bought in the early 50's. I have only shot factory ammo thru it, killed my 1st deer in 1969 with also.



Simdow

Short Magazine Lee Enfield later redesignated as a Number 1 Mark III. .303 British would be the chambering. You can look at the socket on the right side of the gun for identifying marks. The other most common version(s) is the No. 4 Marks I (and II) used during WWII. I believe the Australians continued to use the No. 1 rifle through the Vietnam era where they would have one or so per squad. There are a lot of good sites but the best overall seems to be Steve Redgwell's at 303British.com.