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Not meaning to dwell on the obvious, but I'm thinking it is a sporterised SMLE No.1 Mk.III, rather than a Lee Speed. As I understand it, the 1930s build date is well past any Lee Speed manufacture. Does it by any chance have Lee Speed markings on the action somewhere? Looking forward to seeing photos when its properly set up with good glass.
The SMLEs, especially the No.1Mk.III, have a safety mounted on the left, rear end of the receiver. But both Lee – Speeds shown here have the cocking piece mounted safety of the earlier, 1895 – 1905 Long Lee – Enfield Mk.I. Later, the Mk.I long rifles were converted to charger loading by riveting on charger bridges, the India Pattern from 1905 and the Mk.I C(harger) L(oading) from 1907 on. Apparently BSA did the same here to update a left over older action. I agree, that rifle shown by superbee is most likely much earlier than “from the late 30's”.
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