Lee-Enfield No.4 Rifle Guide – Variants, Manufacturers and What to Look For

Lee-Enfield No.4 Rifle Guide – Variants, Manufacturers and What to Look For

Posted by G-TEN on 14th Apr 2026

The Lee-Enfield No.4 Mk1 rifle is one of the most widely recognised and historically significant bolt-action rifles ever produced. Used extensively during and after the Second World War, it remains highly popular among collectors and shooters across the UK.

With production spanning multiple factories — including British, Canadian, and American manufacturers — there are a number of variations that can affect both value and collectability.

This guide provides an overview of the No.4 Mk1 platform, including key manufacturers such as Savage and Long Branch, as well as what to look for when assessing a rifle or its components.

Overview of the No.4 Platform

The No.4 Mk1 was developed as a refinement of the earlier Lee-Enfield designs, offering improved manufacturing efficiency and battlefield practicality.

Key characteristics:

  • Rear aperture sight system

  • Detachable magazine (typically 10-round capacity)

  • Robust bolt-action design

  • Designed for military service conditions

The rifle was produced in large numbers, but variations in production location and specification make certain examples more desirable than others.

Key Manufacturers

British Production

Rifles produced in the UK were manufactured primarily at:

  • Enfield

  • Royal Ordnance Factory (ROF) Fazakerley

  • ROF Maltby

  • BSA Shirley

These rifles are often marked accordingly and are commonly encountered in the UK market.

Savage (USA)

Savage-produced No.4 rifles were manufactured in the United States under contract.

Identifying features:

  • Marked “US PROPERTY”

  • Often include a squared “S” stamp on components

  • Manufactured to British specifications

Savage rifles are popular with collectors due to their distinctive markings and wartime production history.

Approximately 150,000 MK1 rifles were made before moving to MK1*

Long Branch (Canada)

Produced at the Long Branch factory in Canada:

Identifying features:

  • Marked “Long Branch” on the receiver

  • High standard of manufacture

  • Often well-regarded for build quality

Long Branch rifles are widely respected and commonly sought after in the collector market.

Approximately 15,000 MK1 rifles made before moving to MK1*

Common Variants

No.4 Mk1

  • Standard wartime production model

  • Features milled components (on earlier rifles)

  • Wide range of manufacturer variations

No.4 Mk1*

  • Simplified design for faster production

  • Commonly associated with Savage and Long Branch rifles

  • Differences in bolt release mechanism

No.4 Mk2

  • Post-war refinement

  • Trigger hung from the receiver rather than the trigger guard

  • Generally considered an improvement in consistency

Markings and Identification

Correct markings are key when identifying and valuing a No.4 rifle.

Look for:

  • Manufacturer markings (Savage, Long Branch, ROF, etc.)

  • Serial numbers (matching numbers can increase value)

  • Proof marks and military acceptance stamps

Consistency across components can indicate:

  • Original configuration

  • Less modification over time

Condition and Originality

When assessing a No.4 Mk1 rifle, consider:

Condition:

  • Bore quality

  • Metal finish

  • Stock condition

Originality:

  • Matching serial numbers

  • Correct parts for the manufacturer

  • Lack of non-original modifications

Original rifles tend to hold greater value, particularly for collectors.

Common Modifications

Many Lee-Enfield rifles have been modified over time.

Examples include:

  • Sporterised stocks

  • Replacement sights

  • Aftermarket finishes

While these may improve usability for some purposes, they can:

  • Reduce collector value

  • Affect historical accuracy

Accessories and Compatibility

The No.4 platform supports a range of period-correct accessories, including:

  • Slings

  • Bayonets

  • Scope mounts (on specific variants)

  • Maintenance equipment

As with other rifles, compatibility can vary depending on:

  • Variant

  • Manufacturer

  • Previous modifications

Collector Considerations

For collectors, key factors include:

  • Manufacturer (Savage, Long Branch, British factories)

  • Rarity of specific markings

  • Condition and originality

  • Historical context

Certain combinations of these factors can significantly influence value.

Conclusion

The Lee-Enfield No.4 Mk1 is a historically significant and highly collectible rifle platform, with variations across manufacturers such as Savage and Long Branch adding further interest.

Understanding these differences is essential when assessing a rifle, purchasing parts, or building a period-correct setup.

At G-TEN, we regularly handle Lee-Enfield rifles and components, including No.4 variants from a range of manufacturers. If you are unsure about identification or compatibility, it is always worth confirming before purchasing.

Check out our stock.

sales@g-ten.co.uk

G-TEN.CO.UK

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