Smle

[Bruce Parker (RIP)]

Originally Posted by Ed Storey

That youtube video reminds me of an Egyptian mummy unwrapping that was a common party theme by the wealthy during the Victorian era. I know there are many out there who disagree, but from my perspective, this video is just as thoughtless and shortsighted as there cannot be many NOS SMLEs still in their original wrapping. In their defence, at least the Victorians had little idea of what they were going to find when they unwrapped their bundle; whereas in this case the label was pretty clear.

1) In a perfect world a collector would buy two of those Irish contract rifles, one to unwrap and one to keep mummified.

2) I expect a purist might say that, while a No.4 is shorter than a Long Lee, it isn't technically a 'Short, Magazine, Lee Enfield.

3) All those Victorians who morbidly meddled with mummies are now cursed along with their descendant's forever.

[Mike Cecil]

I agree with you both.

In a perfect world, an example would be left wrapped and conserved in a publicly-funded museum collection as an example. Unfortunately, even then, there are no guarantees. I am aware of an M3A1 SMG 'grease gun' still in its original WW2 sealed box that was cut open to check the serial number which was already visible on the label.

Mike

[Ed Storey]

Perhaps what is needed is a publically funded museum run by purists!

[David Dunlop]

Interesting curve to this thread.

One thing I would love to find is packing instructions for a variety of wireless kit, like 19-Set Spare Parts Boxes, any of the 52-Set Boxes and Cases, the 1/4-ton M100 Support Trailer for the .50 Browning on the M38CDN.

Always lots of Contents Lists to be found, but little or nothing on how to actually pack the items.


David

[Bruce Parker (RIP)]

Originally Posted by David Dunlop

Interesting curve to this thread.

One thing I would love to find is packing instructions for a variety of wireless kit, like 19-Set Spare Parts Boxes, any of the 52-Set Boxes and Cases, the 1/4-ton M100 Support Trailer for the .50 Browning on the M38CDN.

Always lots of Contents Lists to be found, but little or nothing on how to actually pack the items.


David

And to further curve this into a want list....has anyone even seen a stowage diagram for a Chev HUW wireless van? Particularly because there are about a dozen bins with specific sizes and securing straps that, try as I might, don't match either 11 set or 19 set equipment or accessories. So what the heck were they designed for?

[Lynn Eades]

Ed, while I concur with your sentiments, I believe the guy who paid $6000.00 has the right to do what ever he wishes with it. I watched the video and this rifle is like the woman that appeals more when she still holds her secrets. This rifle has bared its all and has less appeal for me now, than it did when it was wrapped. (not that I am making any claims of knowledge about the fairer sex)

[Ed Storey]

I agree, his rifle, he can do what he wants with it. I will also got a step further and state that not only was the unwrapping foolhardy and short-sighted but he posted it to Youtube simply as a means to gain 'likes' and acceptance.