The Lee Enfield No.4 Mk.2 represents the final and most refined evolution of the Lee-Enfield bolt action rifle, incorporating a significant design improvement over the earlier No.4 Mk.1. The trigger mechanism is hung directly from the receiver rather than from the trigger guard, resulting in improved trigger consistency and accuracy. The action uses the rear locking lug Lee bolt with a 60 degree throw and the cock on closing striker mechanism that gave the Lee Enfield its renowned rapid rate of fire. The rifles were finished in the durable black Suncorite protective coating characteristic of late British military production and stocked in blonde beech with a brass butt plate.

This example bears a UF55 serial prefix, placing its manufacture at the Royal Ordnance Factory, Fazakerley, in 1955, the final full year of Lee-Enfield production. The UF serial prefix denotes manufacture at Fazakerley, with "U" designating the United Kingdom and "F" designating Fazakerley. These rifles were believed to have been produced as part of a final Royal Air Force contract of approximately 30,000 No.4 Mk.2 rifles, manufactured after the British Army had largely transitioned to the L1A1 Self Loading Rifle. By the time Fazakerley completed production, the rifles were no longer needed for active service and were placed directly into government storage, wrapped in cosmoline impregnated wax paper. They remained in storage until being declared surplus and sold in the 1980s and 1990s, still in their original protective wrapping. The rifle is in unissued condition with all serialized components matching, including on the receiver, bolt handle, forend, and detachable magazine. The rifle is fitted with its original blonde beech furniture with brass butt plate and black Suncorite finish throughout, with remains/residue of cosmoline present near the muzzle. Accompanied by two 10 round detachable box magazines (one serial matching), no original box or additional accessories included.

Markings

The rifle displays a comprehensive array of inspection and proof markings throughout. The rear stock band bears a Broad Arrow on the right side along with several numbered Broad Arrows and cross pendant inspection marks. Cross pendants also appear on the bolt. The trigger guard is stamped "F54", while the front barrel band and middle forend band are both marked "F52". The underside of the forend is stamped "F55", and the wrist of the stock carries an "F55" marking. The bottom of the bolt handle is stamped "F53". Adjacent to the magazine well and stock, the marking "34" Broad Arrow "PB" is present. These date stamped marks, ranging from F52 through F55, exemplify usage of individual components inspected and accepted across several years before final assembly in 1955.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Royal Ordnance Factory, Fazakerley
• Model: No.4 Mk.2
• Serial Prefix: UF55
• Date of Manufacture: 1955
• Caliber: .303 British
• Action: Bolt action, rear locking lugs, cock on closing, 60 degree bolt throw
• Barrel Length: 25.2 inches
• Finish: Black Suncorite
• Stock: Blonde beech with brass butt plate
• Trigger: Receiver hung (Mk.2 pattern)
• Sights: Blade front sight with protective ears, micrometer adjustable rear aperture sight
• Safety: Thumb operated lever safety on left side of receiver
• Magazine: Two 10 round detachable box magazines (one serial matching)