My new Ex New Zealand contract Lithgow L1A1

[nickb834]

That is mint - I went to look at the L1's on Neals stand and accidentaly bought a dragunov instead....

Really impressed with the execution of this, great looking rifle - also the link to the SUIT "refresh" is usefull.

How do you find it comfort / effort wise cycling the bolt?

[huntervixen]

Morning all, the latest addition to my Straight pull L1A1 collection is complete!

I procured the parts kit from a well known major RFD (to remain anonymous) and had it transferred to Neal Parnam at Suffolk rifles, now I know Neal's standard of work well as he built up my first SP 1962 Enfield L1A1 and he didn't disappoint with this build, the barrel is very heavy in profile behind the handguards and is a real work of art, quite superb engineering!

My rifle was manufactured in 1964, one of 2198 rifles sold to New Zealand that year, it was probably allocated to the RNZAF, as most of the 1964 allocation appears to have been issued to the Airforce.

I provided Neal with a rough set of Brit plastics to build up the rifle and get it through proof, but as soon as I got her home she was whisked into the workshop for fitting out! Restored Lithgow Coachwood butt and pistol grip, followed by the quite rare second pattern flat rivet Laminate handguards and topped off with the NZ pattern carry handle.

I have also fitted an L2A2 SUIT and Hythe sight assembly including foresight, both need reactivating as the tritium vile's have expired, just haven't got round to it yet!

This final fit spec, (including the black paint work) would be correct for a NZ service rifle in approx 1978-81 ish.

Oh yes, also the 37 pattern sling, pull through and oil bottle were all procured from a friend in NZ.......Yep, I am that OCD when it comes to my milsurps!

All in all very pleased and looking forward to getting her onto the range, a big thank you to Neal Parnham and all how contributed to my project, guys!

Wow very nice John... I might have to pop round and caress it assume you will be bringing both L1's on the next long overdue fun day...

Ray

Cheers Ray, yep, I sure will......I am going to need a bigger car at this rate, can't fit them all in the Land Rover!

How about we start rallying the troops for late March April trip to Severnside?

[huntervixen]

That is mint - I went to look at the L1's on Neals stand and accidentaly bought a dragunov instead....

Really impressed with the execution of this, great looking rifle - also the link to the SUIT "refresh" is usefull.

How do you find it comfort / effort wise cycling the bolt?

Many thanks Nick, well this one remains to be shot, I only finished her on Saturday, so I will let the finish settle and fully cure before shooting her.

However, (if shes like my 1962 Enfield) she will extract GGG ammo with no effort, its going to be right pain in the arse, if the fussy sods like different food!
Ironically, you would find it very similar to your Dragonov to shoot, the felt recoil and weight is about the same.

[Grizzly]

Nice

[Sixshot6]

That is mint - I went to look at the L1's on Neals stand and accidentaly bought a dragunov instead....

Really impressed with the execution of this, great looking rifle - also the link to the SUIT "refresh" is usefull.

How do you find it comfort / effort wise cycling the bolt?

Many thanks Nick, well this one remains to be shot, I only finished her on Saturday, so I will let the finish settle and fully cure before shooting her.

However, (if shes like my 1962 Enfield) she will extract GGG ammo with no effort, its going to be right pain in the arse, if the fussy sods like different food!
Ironically, you would find it very similar to your Dragonov to shoot, the felt recoil and weight is about the same.

Say does it cost alot to bring a SUIT back to life? My friend with his L1A1 says most being near enough dead puts him off buying one for his L1A1.