These are original 'Plates, Stock' for the SMLE, Rifle No1 MkIII & III*.

The plates are cut from plate steel and fit into the rear face of the fore-end, when the rifle is assembled they cannot be seen. They perform 2 jobs. The first is to re-enforce the rear of the fore-end, the second and more important is to provide a notch which the protruding squared off tip of the stock bolt (butt bolt) sits into to prevent the bolt coming loose and unscrewing itself. The item is the reason why it is imperative to remove the fore-end of the rifle before attempting to remove or adjust the stock bolt.

The plates are a mix of new and recovered examples, although due to their job and position none of them have experienced any wear or damage. For condition see pictures. Some may be found with makers marks (see first picture), some are not. We regret that we are unable to select for manufacturer marks when filling an order.

Unit of sale; 1 Stock plate.

British Army Part No; BB0719.

Stock No; EFDSMLESP 73.