These are original, steel, 'Bands, Outer' for the SMLE, Rifle No1 MkIII & III*.  These bands - sometimes called the 'Centre Band' - are hinged to allow for ease of fitting around the fore-end and hand guards and provide the method of securing the front handguard to the top of the fore-end. The front (or upper) sling swivel is attached between the lugs of these bands by means of the screw which keeps the band in place. Both swivel and screw are available elsewhere in this section.

These bands are finished by 'blueing' (which is actually black in colour in the case of these rifles) or occasionally painted in the case of bands which were refinished during or after WW2. The current stock is in good to excellent condition. The bands have been salvaged from unissued rifles broken up for spares, or may be reconditioned good used examples. Most have some wear to the finish, or have trivial knocks and dings. Many display some form of British inspection stamp usually accompanied by a 'Broad Arrow' ownership mark, but are otherwise unmarked.

Unit of sale 1 band.

British Army part No BB0652.

Stock No EFDSMLESP1