In the early days of 303 and sub caliber target shooting, the most prolific and expensive items available in the commonwealth were from...

I won this 1943 T "sporter" configuration from an online auction - the 1943 models are a little more tricky to define as "real" and buyers don't often bid like they trust the markings or photographs. An interesting facet of this year of production is that BSA (Shirley - their rifle producing location) started the year using its traditional "B" makers mark, then received the "M47" war effort manufacturer designation and then added the factory designations "A-B-C" (C for Shirl

· British 303 are head spaced on the rim – really a rim space, which is changed with the bolt head for one with a different (target) length – the rifle action is “failed cartridge safe” by design – the rim space limits are very generous by design and manufacture (with war time relaxations) to allow all grades of ammunition to chamber under all conditions. Tightening and "over head spacing" (rim spacing) is probable and this can challenge the bolt achieving “lock”. · Bolt head