What Enfield model is best?

[Red_Ram3500]

Looking at getting a .303 just for target and gong. Was looking into the rifle and noticed several models. Anyone have some input as to which one's best in regards to MKI , MKII etc?

[catnthehat]

If you are talking about the Lee Enfield, and I believe you are most shooters and collectors say that the no.4 Longbranch is da bomb with a Savage/ Stevens made no.4 running a close second
Reasons are several , but include stuff like replacement
Bolt heads, excellent peep sights , etc
However if you find Amy Enfield that has been re barrelled and sporterized it will likely be a fine rifle for hunting and range sports
Cat

[catnthehat]

Here's a couple, a No.4MK1 IIRC with a one piece stock and flush magazine made.
This rifle has a replacement barrel and has killed untold amount of animals , some out to quite a distance with the aid of the very old Kahles 3X scope.
The Long Branch with it is bix stock factory and never saw service although it has been to several national and international matches in three countries.
I still shoot it right out to 1K


Here's one that has been re-worked considerably, it's a SMLE with the magazine cut off removed and the right side shaved, a recoil lug added at the back of the action, the butt stock strap removed and everything bedded into a pretty nice one piece stock!
The Williams receiver sight sold me on it, of course!


Cat

[rembo]

best "Enfield" is the Pattern of 1914...:-)


better known as the P14

[catnthehat]

Originally Posted by rembo

best "Enfield" is the Pattern of 1914...:-)


better known as the P14

I think he was speaking of the lee Enfields hwoever.
BUT, if I had my druthers ( and I do!) mine would be a pattern 14 as well for accuracy and case life , etc. - in fact I have one , but it's a custom in 280.
Cat

[Grizzly Adams]

Guess I've always preferred the No. 4, mostly cause of the heavier barrel. Seen a couple of Mk lll s with bent barrels, don't think the designers were thinking of Bubba at the time and the military wood protects it.

Grizz

[DaleJ]

Agree the Enfield P-14 is the desired shooter. Have Winchester and ERA rifles as issued. Great shooters. Good brass life.

[Maxpower]

#4 mk 1/2

[raiderfan]

1914

[Grizzly Adams]

Originally Posted by rembo

best "Enfield" is the Pattern of 1914...:-)


better known as the P14

Simple ream job to turn it into a magnum , can't say that about the others.

Grizz

[catnthehat]

Originally Posted by Grizzly Adams

Simple ream job to turn it into a magnum , can't say that about the others.

Grizz

No, but the OP was asking about a range rifle or messing wit shooting gongs and such and mentuoned the Mk1,11, and 111's
I had the one piece stocked job out today and was hitting at 200 with no problem , and emptied a ten round mag shooting offhand quickly into an 8" piece of steel at 100 rounds and didn't miss with the irons, that's what I call a fun gun for messing at the range with!
Cat

[Orvis1969]

For target/range shooting? I would look for a former DCRA Enfield No.4 or a Lee Enfield set up for target shooting that has been regulated by Fulton or Martin.