RFI Ishapore Lee-Enfield No.5 Mk I Jungle Carbine, .303 British, Factory Repair 1960, 18.5 in Barrel, Flash Hider, 10+1
This RFI (Ishapore) Lee-Enfield No.5 Mk I Jungle Carbine is an Indian arsenal Factory Repair conversion dated 1960, marked "F.R. 1960 R.F.I." It brings the classic No.5 configuration to a Rifle Factory Ishapore program piece, distinct from British-production examples. It features the correct conical flash hider with under-slung bayonet lug, the shortened fore-end with cut-back handguards, and a receiver-mounted ladder aperture sight—hallmark details collectors look for on a Jungle Carbine.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This rifle presents in great shape overall, with scratches and blemishes from prior handling and storage. The bore is clean and shiny.
What’s Included
- 1x 10-round detachable Lee-Enfield pattern steel box magazine
- No.5 pattern knife bayonet with wood grips and steel scabbard
- Black web sling with brass keeper (installed)
Built at Rifle Factory Ishapore as part of an Indian arsenal program, this No.5 Mk I is clearly identified by the "F.R. 1960 R.F.I" marking. Additional markings include an "SAA" over "I" buttstock cartouche and inspector/alphanumeric stamps on the front sight block/protector, providing useful provenance and inspection history.
The rifle follows the No.5 Jungle Carbine pattern with an 18.5-inch barrel and the distinctive conical flash hider that incorporates a protected front blade and an under-slung bayonet lug. It uses the shortened fore-end with a single front band and cut-back top handguards that define the carbine configuration.
Chambered in .303 British, the rifle retains the Lee-Enfield's cock-on-close, rear-locking bolt action. It feeds from a detachable 10-round steel box magazine for a 10+1 capacity. Sighting is via a receiver-mounted ladder aperture rear paired with the integral protected front blade on the No.5 muzzle unit.
The two-piece hardwood stock is oil-finished and fitted with a rubber buttpad, with a measured length of pull of 14.0 inches. A manual safety is provided. The overall setup reflects the practical, lightweight No.5 format while preserving the Lee-Enfield's familiar handling characteristics.
As an Indian-converted Jungle Carbine distinct from British No.5 production, this 1960 RFI example offers a documented configuration and markings that appeal to both Lee-Enfield enthusiasts and collectors focused on post-war arsenal programs.