Lee-Enfield Headspace Problem

Q: Fired cases are difficult to extract from my Lee-Enfield No.1 Mark III. The cases also have a bright ring around the base and a slight bulge at that point. Is this a sign of excessive headspace?I’ve been told that these rifles were purposely made with maximum tolerances for use in muddy and dusty battlefield conditions, Does this situation pose any serious problems?

Sydney Coleman

A: The answer to both your questions is, “Yes.” Your cases are showing signs of incipient head separation. Don’t shoot it again in its present condition. It is true that many of the old Lee Enfields were made a little “loose” for battlefield use, but not that loose. The headspace is easily corrected by installing a longer bolt head. A gunsmith with a supply of bolt heads should be able to fix the problem in about 5 minutes.

for which conventional Mauser-style headspacing methods were used.