.303 British?

[Gil Martin]

My first rifle was a No. I Mark III .303 Enfield from WWI made in 1916 that set me back $15.88 back in 1958. Within its limitations the .303 British is a fine cartridge. True, the actions are smooth, but the rear locking lugs of the action tends to stretch cases and reduce the number of possible reloads. Neck sizing helps to a point, but mot very much. I have a .303 P-14 Enfield (the forerunner of the U.S 1917 Enfield) that is much kinder to cases due to the front locking lugs of the action.

The Enfields commonly used in WWII made in England , Canada and other Commonwealth countries are probably the best of the lot. They are known as the No. 4 Mark I, have peep sights and replacement bolt heads are available to tighten up the headspace to a point.

The .303 British is very common in Canada and has probably taken all the big game that country has to offer.

Personally, I would avoid the Enfields made in India. They may be encountered in .303 and some are being sold in .308. I have one, but never shoot it. Hope this helps. All the best...
Gil