Enfield Gunsmithing - SMLE Mk. III Stuck screw

Print Page | Close Window

SMLE Mk. III Stuck screw

Printed From: Enfield-Rifles.com
Category: Enfields
Forum Name: Enfield Gunsmithing
Forum Description: Submit any how-to's or other gunsmithing suggestions here.
URL: http://www.enfield-rifles.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=13052
Printed Date: March 26 2026 at 8:52pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.07 - https://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: SMLE Mk. III Stuck screw

Posted By: GoatsNeedGuns
Subject: SMLE Mk. III Stuck screw
Date Posted: December 22 2023 at 5:19pm

A few days ago I got myself a 1917 production date SMLE MK.III and wanted to strip it down to check the inside for any bad rust or pitting.

When I got to the screw of the front swivel that holds it into the swivel band on the forestock, I ran into my first issue. The screw appeared to be almost totally stripped, and wouldn't budge. I sprayed it with some Ballistol several times and let it sit, even tried a small bit of PB blaster, hoping to clear all of the grit out of it, still nothing. Tried the trick of putting a rubberband over the end of my bit to give it some more purchase in the screw, still no luck.

This is my first milsurp rifle and first disassembly, so I'm still totally green at all of this. Hoping someone can give me tips on how to get this sucker loose.

-------------
GoatsNeedGuns