Trigger Modifications

That happened to me once, I had worked the second stage pull to below 3 lbs.  I don’t recommend anyone try that. 

I read something yesterday I did not know about the L39 development regarding trigger pull. According to Skennerton (page 242, The Lee Enfield Story): 

“The trigger pressures on the L39 are lighter than those of the L42, at a first pressure of 2-3 lb. and second pressure of 4 - 4.5 lb.  In order to obtain the lighter trigger pressures, the angle of the face of the cocking piece has been altered slightly.  Additionally, a second recess was cut into the magazine catch to allow the short arm of the sear spring to be seated in a lower position, in case the trigger pressures were still too heavy.” 

I worked the pressure down to 4 lb 4 oz on my No. 4 T by very carefully altering the angle of the bent (face of the cocking piece as described above).  The trick is to be sure you keep the sear surface at right angles to the cocking piece. You only need to change that angle by a degree or two, taking very little material off the cocking piece. 

I check the return of the trigger just as Zed describes.  The trigger MUST return to Stage Zero when released from Stage 1 and Stage 2.  I also check this with my trigger weight rig, add weights just until the striker is released, then remove one ounce (I’m using cast lead Snider bullets to add about one ounce at a time), lift rifle with weights hanging on the trigger then lower rifle to set weights back down on the table.  The trigger must return to stage zero. I do this three or four times. 

 

I'm starting my reloading for this year's competitions. My wife also competes with a No4, so there's quite a bit to do!