Shooting my No. 4 Mk1*

I put 6 rounds 100 yards down range yesterday with my scoped 1944 No 4 Mk1*. A steady wind was coming at me from the left at an angle at about 5 MPH with an occasional gust. I shot new Greek HXP rounds from the 1980s. My point of aim was the center of the target. I thought the consistency of the grouping was decent considering the wind was not exactly ideal for target shooting. I can easily see how the No. 4 was used as a sniper rifle. The Greek ammo is outstanding.

Attachment 50530

I also shot 6 rounds that were reloaded with 174 gr. FMJ-BT bullets and IMR 4064 powder. All 6 were on target but the grouping was not as tight as the HXP ammo. Again, all shots were aimed at the center of the target.

Attachment 50531

scoped like a T or just a No 4 with a scope attached?


Enfields are funny about the bullet, most don't like the BT's and prefer flat base

See my previous post - Installing a scope on a No. 4 Mk 1*

I suspect all vintage military bullets are flat based.

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Originally Posted by Merc

See my previous post - Installing a scope on a No. 4 Mk 1*

I suspect all vintage military bullets are flat based.

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Almost all are. Mk VIIIz machine gun ammunition is boat tailed. It still shows up sometimes. It can be hot stuff.

What is the purpose of the boat tail design?

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Originally Posted by Merc

What is the purpose of the boat tail design?

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in most, they fly more true, as in accurate

in Enfields, esp those that have been shot with Cordite, flat base works best

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Originally Posted by lyman

in most, they fly more true, as in accurate

in Enfields, esp those that have been shot with Cordite, flat base works best

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They also improve (flatten) trajectory at longer ranges due to less drag.

You really need a good barrel for truly satisfactory results with any Lee Enfield and boat tailed bullets. Brit ammo with cordite produces a very hot burn which increases barrel erosion at the throat, a big part of the problem. My No. 4 Mk 2 which I got new in the mummy wrap handles boat tail bullets well but its post war very high quality construction and hadn't sent a round down range from the time it left the factory until I got it.

I also use 4064 powder for handloads in my No 4 and find it works very well indeed.

A good flat base 180 gr spitzer should give good results and shoot to the sights with the right load. If you find some old nasty .303 Brit. Mk VII ball at a good price and pull the bullets you should get a very satisfactory result with your handloads. I've done that and been well satisfied.