Low pressure rounds for Ishapore/Enfields?

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  • RCB

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    I was reading this article: https://www.ssusa.org/content/feeding-the-ishy-low-pressure-7-62-mm-nato-for-india-s-enfield/

    and thought it was odd. I've shot hundreds if not thousands of rounds through those rifles with everything from spicy 308 hunting rounds to standard issue NATO rounds. Neither one has ever hiccuped. Anyone ever experienced issues with the bolt being hard to cycle? I'm not disputing what the author wrote, just odd it's never been an issue I've witnessed.
     

    Mongo59

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    I have owned 4 or 5 of these rifles over the years, and still have one. I have never experienced an issue with all the ammo you mention as well as the German plastic rounds.

    Never had a failure to extract or eject. What this guy wrote is news to me. Maybe he just doesn't want anyone else shooting against him with the same gun...
     

    Ross Rifle

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    I think the common perception is that the rear-locked Lee action is less strong than, for example, a Mauser action, and the concept of the low pressure ammo is to prolong it's lifespan. Over time the receiver rails will stretch, and locking lugs will rebate. That being said, I don't think it's particularly relevant, as the number of rounds fired to actually achieve dangerous headspace is very high, even with higher pressure .308 ammunition. The author also states that the Lee action has one locking lug, which is patently false. They have two symmetrical locking lugs, and provide comparable surface contact to other rifles of the period.
     
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    MrSmitty

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    Everything I've read about the Ishapores, is that the guns were made with really good ordinance steel, purpose built for the 7.62x 51... Mauser guys alway poo poo the Enfield action, but it sure has stood the test of time, and a few wars..... I'd love to have another (I've owned 2), but the whole right hand action thing....the last one I owned was a sporterized 2a1 I called "Thumper" barrel had been chopped, had an after market muzzle break, and was loud as hades.....Kick myself for selling it.....Love them!
     
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    Mongo59

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    the last one I owned was a sporterized 2a1 I called "Thumper" barrel had been chopped, had an after market muzzle break, and was loud as hades

    Yes, I was reading this thinking to myself, so what is your point? lol.
     

    kalashnikovfan

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    I love mine haven't shot it in a good while.... always have shot 7.62x51 through it though. I was told commercial 308 was to hot for it so I never bothered to try. IMG_20230325_200315376.jpg
     
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    RCB

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    Who does conversions? I'd love to get a 45-70 lee/ishapore.
    Most people use the 303 Enfields, because the 303 is a rimmed cartridge as well. Plus the lower pressures work ok with the Enfields for the most part. I know the 444, a new barrel was the main component. The 45-70 is a slightly larger diameter and may require some bolt work in addition to the barrel. Obviously you have to set the headspace, likely fiddle with the magazine some, but I know of others who have done similar conversions.
     
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