(Savage mfg.) Enfield ~ No.4 MK I U.S. Property marked ~ .303 British

An Enfield No. 4 Mk I marked "U.S. Property" is a variation of the classic British service rifle manufactured in the United States by Savage Arms (in Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts) during World War II. These rifles were supplied to the United Kingdom and Allied forces through the Lend-Lease Act. Key Features & Markings The "U.S. Property" Stamp: This is generally roll-stamped on the receiver, often on the angled left-hand flat or the side wall. Savage Markings: Savage-produced rifles feature a large "S" marking on the receiver and metal parts (magazine followers, barrel bands, etc.). You will also see U.S. proof marks, such as the "flaming bomb" ordnance mark. Mk I vs. Mk I:* Most Savage-made rifles are actually designated as No. 4 Mk I*. The asterisk denotes minor wartime production simplifications, most notably a redesigned bolt-release catch and a simplified two-position flip peep sight. History & Lend-Lease Before and during the early years of World War II, the British military was desperately short of small arms. To meet the demand, the British Purchasing Commission contracted Savage Arms to manufacture Lee-Enfield No. 4 rifles. Because the U.S. was officially neutral when production began in 1941 (and later entered the war under Lend-Lease), U.S. law required these foreign-contracted arms to be stamped "U.S. Property" to track and distinguish them from American military equipment (such as the M1 Garand or M1903). [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]