SMLE #5

[Craig]

I bought a SMLE #5 Jungle Carbine a few years ago for $150. it was in rough shape so i cleaned it up a bit and sold it for $300. I was glad to turn the profit but wonder if i could have got more for it? Opinions?

[Gil Martin]

It depends on the condition and finding the right buyer. Since the rifle is gone what does it matter now? All the best...
Gil

[Craig]

the condition was fair. the bore was clean and trigger was good but the stock was very beat up and wobbly. it doesn't really matter but i am curious anyway if it could possibly have sold for more and i thought someone here may know. thanks

[Badger]

Craig,

How did that #5 group at 100 yards? What was the condition of the bore? Were all Numbers Matching? You say the stock was "wobbly." Why? Don't you have a screwdriver to tighten up the butt stock? You say the condition was "Fair." Is that NRA Condition or your off the cuff determination? Here a "NRA Fair" #5 goes for $50 as a parts gun.

Badger

[Craig]

Craig,
Don't you have a screwdriver to tighten up the butt stock?

Badger


Yes I have a screwdriver, in fact I have several. The stock could not be tightened further due to the wood being in such poor shape. I'd take anything the NRA says with a grain of salt, but if they say $50, it seems like I did pretty good.

[Gil Martin]

The NRA grading system is widely used to describe the condition of used firearms in a standardized way we can all understand. The NRA did not offer a price for your rifle. Bagder merely said an Enfield #5 in fair condition would probably bring $50 as a parts gun in his area. All the best...
Gil