Hi every one,
hoping some one can supply me with some info.I read recently that the Lee Enfield no 4 rifle was the standard issue rifle from 1939.I was under the impression that it wasnt issued till late 1943/44.I have been on the net and looked through the usual channels early photos etc but can find no evidence of its issue early war.Anybody help?
Thanks Phil

Hi Phil,

The SMLE No 4 repalced the older styles in 43/44.

Check out this site and it should explain everythijg you need to know:

http://www.diggerhistory.info/pages-weapons/allied_ww1.htm

Cheers

Al

I seem to recall reading that the No 4 Mk1 had been developed and tested by 1939/40 but was not issued untill late '42/early43 due to the urgent need to replace weapons lost at Dunkirk. The powers-that-be didn't want to interrupt production of a proven weapon untill the threat of invasion had receded.

Thanks for the replies chaps,

Just as I thought.The confusion set in after reading an article in arms and uniforms by L&F Funken stating 1939 as date of issue.Blanford Press Army Uniforms of WW2 also shows a picture of a Scottish Highlander armed with a SMLE no 4 allegedly in France 1940.Thanks for the site info Alan dios shaping up nicely cant wait to see it finished.

Cheers Phil

AFAIK the first time the Rifle No4 appeared in action was with 1st Army troops in Tunisia. It was certainly developed some time before this, but the SMLE No1 Mk III was available in large numbers at the start of the war so there was no incentive to produce new weapons until the army was massively expanded.

David