Years of production for LEC

[p246]

Tried Google and could not find a clear answer. Saw a nice looking LEC but sure date on side was 1916. Found some post that said not made after 1907 and others that said made till 1926. Kyber pass copy if so he's owned it since 1990.

[Lance]

"Official" production of the LEC Mk I* ended in 1903 as the SMLE Mk I became the standard rifle for all services. There were lots of spares available and more might of been made after especially for the colony's. A 1916 dated example would be very unlikely unless it has been highly modified and appears as a SMLE type of rifle, sounds Kyber special. Photo's would help.

[p246]

I don't have it to photograph and didn't look at it long but I'll get to look at it again. I did find a website that said BSA continued to make civilian sales LEC's many of which were bought by British Officers during WW1. They showed a picture of a 1909 dated LEC with no bayonet lug. I'll confirm date and see if I can find any other markings. This one has the safe queen look so it might have been a civilian gun, or of course kyber pass.

[p246]

Well I got my notes all messed up. Its a 1901 dated New Zealand carbine, which makes sense. Only the second one I've ever seen.