Jason, I am again reminded that you have excellent taste in firearms, I have to say. I was at a local gun show in Ukiah years ago and came across a Lee Enfield that even in my almost complete ignorance I could tell was special enough. It was still completely covered in Cosmoline. It had some peculiar markings on it with a squared "S" all over it. It had a really neat vernier rear sight on the back. I called my best friend who knew a lot about Enfields. It of course turned out to be a L.E. #4 Mark 1* made by Savage Arms in 1942. So I bought it, I may have paid $300 for it even, I don't remember for sure. A lot at the time if so. Worth twice that now.
I went to strip off the Cosmoline and got overly generous with the Murphy's Oil soap in a 5 gallon bucket of warm water. It stripped off the Cosmo alright, but also the wood stain and everything LOL.
![Rolling Eyes :roll:](./images/smilies/icon_rolleyes.gif)
My bad. A refinish of the stock was the only option, so I did so using some Min Wax stain after steaming out and sanding the dings in the wood. The metal parts were perfect in their Parkerized finish. The general consensus of those who have seen it is that it was never issued, all matching numbers. Its going with me to the Friends of Billy Dixon Shooting Range in April with a custom long range load. If your in the area, please come by about April 6th or so.
Unfortunately I can't get my photos to post here, driving me crazy, can't figure it out.
Yes indeed, it is always worth attending a local gun show. You never know what you may find. One of the other better finds was a old Pabst Blue Ribbon "Church Key" bottle opener. Its rock solid, so much stronger than the cheap stuff made now. It will last forever. -Tutt
"It ain't dead! As long as there's ONE COWBOY taking care of ONE COW, it ain't dead!!!" (the Cowboy Way)
-Monte Walsh (Selleck version)
"These battered wings still kick up dust." -Peter Gabriel