My Indian Enfield & Accessories
I know that this subject is covered in far greater detail on other forums that are devoted to firearms, but I thought I would share a few pictures of my Indian-made Enfield and its accessories.
This rifle was made by Rifle Factory, Ishapore (RFI) in 1942. The factory was setup in 1904 and started producing Lee-Enfield rifles in 1909. During the British Raj, these rifles were produced to the same standards and specifications as British manufacturers. Production reached 600,000 during the Second World War, with many rifles being shipped to commonwealth forces in different theatres around the world.
Rifles made by the Rifle Factory, Ishapore were marked with a Kings Crown and G.R.I., for Georgius Rex Imperator, prior to 1948-49. The receiver is also stamped with the date of manufacture and No.1 Mk.III*.
The buttplate on this example is brass.
The distinctive Ishapore Screw, or Ishy Screw, that is very common on rifles that saw service in India. These screws were likely used by Indian Armourers to reinforce the fore stock and repair splits.
The stock on this example has multiple repairs that speak to its service as a functional military rifle.
The nose cap on this Indian-made rifle lacks the stacking swivel.
Bayonets made by the Rifle Factory, Ishapore. The top Bayonet is the No.1 Mk.I with its fullered 17 inch blade, while the bottom two bayonets are the shorter No.1 Mk.II that first appeared in 1941. The Mk.II featured unfullered 12 inch blades. Although it is difficult to see in this photograph, the bottom bayonet has been plated in nickel or chrome for parade use.
The makers marks and dates on all three examples. These bayonets are stamped both G.R.I. and R.F.I..
The inspection marks bear an IS for Ishapore. Note the bending test X on the Mk.I.
Brass oiler, Mk. IV and pullthrough.
This oiler lid is marked RFI for Rifle Factory, Ishapore and features a broad arrow.
The oiler base is marked M.S.F. for Metal & Steel Factory, Ishapore and features a broad arrow.
An Indian-made sling, rifle, web, G.S., Mark I.
This sling is marked ca for the Government Harness & Saddlery Factory, Cawnpore and was made in 1942.
