[guns-guns-guns]

My very elderly neighbor asked me to take a look at something they want to sell, so I am thinking they mean a BB gun or something. Out comes some type of old Lee-Metford Sporting Rifle!!!! Remember the gun Val Kilmer used in The Ghost and the Darkness?? it is that very type of gun! It is very definitely a Metford action, and lacks any type of Charger bridge (darn, those early Metford actions are heavy!). The barrel is fitted with a ramp front and I think some variation of an express sight. The stock does not appear to be a military stock re-shaped, but unique to the gun. it is in a conservative pattern and has some checkering on the grip. It had a plaque on it at one time, and you can see where that should have been but isn't. I reeled and drooled and take a blood pressure med when I got back to the house, it was soooooooo sweet! Maybe 85 percent or better - no real rust but dang is it EVER covered in dust!

Are there some tell-tale characteristics of the sporters vs. the military guns that I should look for? The gun had three rounds loose with it that appear to be non-spitzer ball ammo - is this gun safe to shhot with modern factory 303??? Sporterized or no, anyone care to guess what a sporter of this type would be worth? I really want to own the gun, but do not want to stick-it to her, ya know?

 

[03man]

Could you post some pictures?

 

[Joe Turner]

Lee-speed sporter

For what it is worth; Locally ( here in Central California) I saw one in a shop that was well worn on the outside but nice and crisp inside with nice bore, about 50% original finish fading. Looks like it was carried a lot but shot little-the action was crisp. Went for $500.00 and I wish I had bought it! Hope this is of use to you. Good luck! Joe