The Lee-Enfield SMLE

 
A while ago I posted some information about the Mauser. Specifically, those used in the Anglo-Boer War. Mostly as a result of the lessons learned by the British during that conflict, the following rifle was introduced - and proved hugely successful.

This is from the Discovery Channel Website:

THE LEE-ENFIELD SMLE (Short Magazine Lee-Enfield)

Type: Bolt-Action Rifle
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Caliber: 7.7 x 56 mm (.30 inch)
Cartridge Capacity: 10 rounds
Muzzle Velocity: approximately 2,438 feet per second
Rate of Fire: 15-20 rounds per minute

The standard infantry weapon of British troops from World War I to the 1956 Suez crisis, the Lee-Enfield SMLE (pronounced "smelly") built its reputation on reliability, accuracy and a phenomenal rate of fire. Its magazine carried 10 bullets, the largest capacity of any rifle on the battlefield during the first half of the 20th century. Its short bolt action cocked on closing, and its muzzle cap prevented dirt from clogging the weapon. In the hands of a well-trained infantryman, the Lee-Enfield could perform what was called the "mad minute," i.e., thirty rounds hitting a target 200 meters distant in one minute, a volume of fire that rivals modern semiautomatic weapons.

Visit the website when you have a chance. There are videos of different rifles in action and a poll to vote for the best rifle of all time. The AK 47 leads at the moment.