Removing charger bridge
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=6193
Printed Date: March 26 2026 at 3:39pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.07 - https://www.webwizforums.com
Topic: Removing charger bridge
Posted By: ikesdad
Subject: Removing charger bridge
Date Posted: August 18 2013 at 6:26pm
Regarding a #4.....would removing the charger bridge compromise any action strength ?
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Pro Deo et Patria
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Replies:
Posted By: 303Guy
Date Posted: August 19 2013 at 6:01am
Well, the original MLE had no charger bridge. The No4 was designed with the charger bridge which is integral but the basic design is the same so perhaps removing the bridge won't have any weakening effect. The recoil lug recesses are behind the bridge anyway. However, I have heard of the No5 spreading the action body behind the lug recess (and bridge).
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303Guy
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Posted By: LE Owner
Date Posted: August 20 2013 at 1:54am
A number of factory sporting rifles built on surplus No.4 actions had the charger bridge removed. These rifles had the mounting for the rear aperture sights removed as well, the barrel mounted commercial rear sights were used instead.
Here's an example the Parker Hale Custom No.4
http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=343823578
There's really no significant bracing action by the charger bridge.
With the SMLE the material removed from the left side of the action body and the holes drilled for the rivets appears to have weakened the action slightly. When oiled or wet ammunition was used the SMLE sometimes cracked at these rivet holes. A loose charger bridge was grounds to condemn an SMLE action body. It would indicate possible cracking around the rivets or excessive spreading and snaping back.
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