Got am email today from Sledghammer..

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

And my C1 is DONE and test fired. Finally.

Now, I need it in my pudgy little hands....

Everything went together well, runs nice and smooth, and gives tight groupings.

He sent some pics as well, and it is a real sweetheart. Only problem,.. It looks,.. Well, new!
My 3L was 16 years old when I was issued it, and my 5L not much younger...

Maybe I might have to drag it around behind my truck on a chain for a few miles..

Better yet, maybe I'll just USE IT, slobber it in linseed oil like the old days, and put wear on it that way instead!

[eagle54]

Congratulations on the completion of the C1 .. now we need pics !!

[Russell40]

PICS!

[Arby]

Originally Posted by ExCdnSoldierInTx

Maybe I might have to drag it around behind my truck on a chain for a few miles..

Please don't do that! At least not until you have posted some pics here. Congratulations on the completed rifle!

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

I'm trying here. I'm on my iPad right now, I saved the images to my pic roll, but now I gotta figure out how to put them on photobucket....

[Thorack]

Yep,

Need pics or it didn't happen. Gotta see it.

Thorack

[tywest]

yep im with thorack



plus i gotta see what my competition looks like for C1 of the year






ok ok I just like pics

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

[NEWFNL1A1]

THAT...is a FINE looking rifle!!!!!!

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

OK, those are the pics that I was sent. In my mind's eye, my collection of parts turned into a preety darned nice rifle.

As far as an early C1A1 goes, I have two issues with it.

1. I need the early wood 3 long slot handguards

and

2. It's a whole lot newer looking than I remember them being

I'm gonna have to do something about that!

As for the perfectionists in this crowd, this rifle is meant to look and handle like what I carried back in the day, not be a carbon copy of a factory new according to blueprint weapon system.

My 3L had 3 slot per side wood handguards, not the later non slotted style, but I supplied these handguards to Sledgehammer because I wanted them on for now.
When and if I find the 3 slot per side style wood ones, on they go.

I haven't inspected the rifle in person yet, but the carry handle looks black in the pics. Trust me, it is NOT. It is the correct dark brown.
Also, the heat marks on the lower are exactly as I remember, and the little 'E' on the lower is my first initial, and was requested by yours truly.

All in all, a pretty darn close copy of an early C1A1.

I'd appreciate comments, and any leads on some 3 slot per side wood handguards.

E

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by tywest

yep im with thorack



plus i gotta see what my competition looks like for C1 of the year






ok ok I just like pics

Hey Bud,

You know that if you're talking a 100% by the book as issued from the factory rifle, you WILL build a better rifle, right?
This is built from a fuzzy old memory and faded pictures only, and not much more.
First, it has a Brit barrel, so some small markings on the gasblock ain't right.
Second, for now, it has 8L handguards, so that ain't right,
Third, it has an Aussie pattern upper that was machined by me to better match a C1A1 upper, so that ain't right either,
But, until I find a loose rifle somewhere and I manage to buy it, this is about as close as I can economically get to a C1A1, so you couldn't pry this out of my hands for a hundred grand.

I hope you all enjoy the pics. I'll get more up as soon as I get it here, probably late this week or early next....

[Russell40]

Outstanding! We need to get fellow Texas Fal shooters together for a shoot!

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by Russell40

Outstanding! We need to get fellow Texas Fal shooters together for a shoot!

Name the time and the place. We can pack a lunch, bring the women, and our 'stuff'.

I have an Inglis and a P-08 that really need some exercise as well...

One rule though... NO PLASTIC GUNS!!!

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Credit where credit is due though.

This is a Sledgehammer build, and all I can say is as far as appearances go, it is simply outstanding in every way.

[enbloc8]

SWEET rifle!!

[tywest]

That looks amazing Ex. Absolutely awesome.

I mean for petes sake my lower isnt even marked so im going to have to stamp all mine via photos haha.

Thanks for the pictures as it will only help in my build. Hats off to the builder.

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by tywest

That looks amazing Ex. Absolutely awesome.

I mean for petes sake my lower isnt even marked so im going to have to stamp all mine via photos haha.

Thanks for the pictures as it will only help in my build. Hats off to the builder.

Thanks go completely to Sledgehammer here guys.
All I did was chase down parts and arrange the machining.

Yeah, I coulda assembled it once the barrel was timed and the headspace set, but I would just as soon let a master builder work his art.
The end results speak highly for themselves.

I will need to find the correct hand guards for the early upgrade though.

To me, this is the rifle I remember as a Servicemember, not those high-falutin' 8L's everyone seems to favor.

I'm just sayin!

I sincerely hope this rifle helps those out there like me strive for more. I only wish the upper could carry more original marks as well....

[tywest]

Ive got the same handguards......if me or you find 2 pair of early we can share

I wont hold my breath though haha

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by tywest

Ive got the same handguards......if me or you find 2 pair of early we can share

I wont hold my breath though haha

No kidding. I have the 2 long, one short slot versions as well, and they will be closer. I do recall seeing those as well.
Really, hand guards were a mix and match in the 70's and 80's anyway, so you're right either way. I just prefer the earlier style, even if they do get hotter!

[sturmgrenadiere]

ExCdn. I wasn't a Canadian soldier and never handled an issue C1 or C1A1, but I'm pretty familiar with them. I don't think referring to C1A1 handguards as "8L" is quite correct. From all the research and reading, and the few first person users I have spoken to or corresponded with, the C1 (slotted) handguards were simply replaced with C1A1 handguards as they became unserviceable. You'll note a picture thread from a few years ago where a chap in Canada got to shoot C1 number "1" and while it had the more Belgian shape external magwell lightening cut, such as you have emulated for a C1, since it was a C1 and not a C1A1 with the more rectangilar scallop, weball noticed that it had the C1A1 stock and handguards, as yours does. I have seen two legit C1 stocks on here in 15 years. One I owned and recently sold. The only set of C1 handguards I ever saw on here were beat to hell. But you'll find NOS C1A1 sets, like yours, without too much trouble. When I was building a C1 I considered just milling the vent slots on a set of C1A1 handguards.

And the 8L, as you allude, we're late arrivals and few in number. But for some reason everyone wants one...

Anyway, my ultimate point is you have a neat rifle. Yours to configure as you deem fit, of course, but in its current form it looks like so many other C1s as pictured. And while I was considering selling off my C1A1 build, this has reinspired me...

[enbloc8]

Originally Posted by sturmgrenadiere

And the 8L, as you allude, we're late arrivals and few in number. But for some reason everyone wants one...

Well, I think the big issue there is that photo documentation of C1s/C1A1s is fairly limited, at least in an easily accessed venue (the FAL books by R. Blake Stevens). Most of the photos are of the comparison set showing the first C1 from 1956 and one of the 8L batch from 1968. And since the 8L cuts are similar, if not quite close, to readily-available Aussie-cut receivers....

Imagine what might result if the primary picture reference on M1 Garands showed only a gas trap rifle from 1936 and one of the last rifles from 1957!

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by enbloc8

Well, I think the big issue there is that photo documentation of C1s/C1A1s is fairly limited, at least in an easily accessed venue (the FAL books by R. Blake Stevens). Most of the photos are of the comparison set showing the first C1 from 1956 and one of the 8L batch from 1968. And since the 8L cuts are similar, if not quite close, to readily-available Aussie-cut receivers....

Imagine what might result if the primary picture reference on M1 Garands showed only a gas trap rifle from 1936 and one of the last rifles from 1957!

I've tried to use some of my private pics from back in the day, but most show me with a Sterling, as I was a radioman. My rifle was usually racked.

I think this rifle is pretty darned close, but like I said before, old memories could be fault....

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by sturmgrenadiere

I don't think referring to C1A1 handguards as "8L" is quite correct. From all the research and reading, and the few first person users I have spoken to or corresponded with, the C1 (slotted) handguards were simply replaced with C1A1 handguards as they became unserviceable.
...Yes I agree there. There was a big mix and match of parts. Some had one late style hand guard, and one early one.


When I was building a C1 I considered just milling the vent slots on a set of C1A1 handguards.
....Good idea


Anyway, my ultimate point is you have a neat rifle. Yours to configure as you deem fit, of course, but in its current form it looks like so many other C1s as pictured.
......Matches old pictures I have, anyway

And while I was considering selling off my C1A1 build, this has reinspired me...
.... Good to hear!!

So, do you happen to know where the cut off was between C1 and new build C1A1?

My rifle HAD the Euro style lightening magwell cut, but also clearly said C1A1 on the upper....

I always assumed it was a C1 that was upgraded to C1A1 standards...

[mp]

Did your Denton machinist do the engraving in the lower as well?

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by mp

Did your Denton machinist do the engraving in the lower as well?

No, Sledgehammer did that.

[sturmgrenadiere]

I'll have to see what I can look up when I get a chance. Enbloc8 is spot on that there is a lot of info on the trails and initial pattern, and then the later, but the majority middle of the run rifles seem to be less documented or that documentation is not a well published or known.

Nonetheless, a fine rifle you have there. Do you have the nifty little C1/C1A1 cleaning/sight adjustment tool? A must for a C1. If not, I may have an extra I'll sell.

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by sturmgrenadiere

I'll have to see what I can look up when I get a chance. Enbloc8 is spot on that there is a lot of info on the trails and initial pattern, and then the later, but the majority middle of the run rifles seem to be less documented or that documentation is not a well published or known.

Nonetheless, a fine rifle you have there. Do you have the nifty little C1/C1A1 cleaning/sight adjustment tool? A must for a C1. If not, I may have an extra I'll sell.

Thanks,

I have a complete CF issue cleaning kit w/combo tool in the od zip up bag, as well as a CF issue bayonet w/scabbard.
I lack a CF issue sling, however, and until I source one, I'll use the Brit one I have.

Like I said before, I wasn't trying to replicate a new rifle as produced by Longbranch in the late 50's-early 60's, instead, I was trying to replicate MY rifle as it was issued to me by the CF.
So I'm sure there will be several things that aren't "correct" for those looking to make either an early C1 or a later production C1A1.

But I think it's a fair representation of that the CF gave the troops after the earlier rifles were shopped with newer components and brought up to C1A1 standards, and for anyone wondering what a "typical" as issued C1A1 looked like in the late 70's-early 80's, this is it, right here.
Just remember that handguards were interchangeable and often were changed according to individual soldier's tastes.

[PauloB]

That is one very pretty rifle. Nice eye candy. Thank you for sharing.

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by Sudden Death

"I lack a CF issue sling, however, and until I source one, I'll use the Brit one I have."

Did CF issue the earlier Canadian Enfield Slings for use on the C1? If so, I may have a new Zephyr Loom and Textile 43' dated khaki sling about. I'll have to check.

Nice rifle BTW!

SD

I'm not sure there....

The one I had was made of a heavy webbing, not woven like the Brit L1A1 slings.

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by PauloB

That is one very pretty rifle. Nice eye candy. Thank you for sharing.

yeah, it's TOO pretty, ain't it. It really needs to be roughed up a bit.... waaay to pretty to be a battle rifle!

[tywest]

Originally Posted by ExCdnSoldierInTx

yeah, it's TOO pretty, ain't it. It really needs to be roughed up a bit.... waaay to pretty to be a battle rifle!

well iff'in you do some roughin up to it.......take that wood off first!!!!

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

SD,

Yes, I DO remember those slings, although they eventually were replaced with the later style pictured.

It would be technically correct for my rifle, and yes, if you are interested in selling it, shoot me a PM and we can talk..

Thanks,

E

[def90]

I thought the early Canadians used 2 slot style handguards, not 3 slot.. Now if you are talking real early as in the Kanada trials models that's another story..

Kevin's Canadian variation thread:
http://www.falfiles.com/forums/showt...light=Canad%2A

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by def90

I thought the early Canadians used 2 slot style handguards, not 3 slot.. Now if you are talking real early as in the Kanada trials models that's another story..

Kevin's Canadian variation thread:
http://www.falfiles.com/forums/showt...light=Canad%2A

I saw them all, none, 2, and 3. There were lots of 3 slot handguards around, very few 2 slot ones, and MOSTLY unslotted like what's on my rifle now.

I 'swapped' my handguards to another guy's rifle who had the 3 slot ones because I thought his looked "cooler". :-)

Hey I was 18! So don't gimme no crap! LOL!

That my hands got alot "warmer" meant nothing to me.
My blaster looked wicked cool with them on, and that's all that mattered to a kid intent on destroying the Communist world!

[Skilter]

Beautiful!

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by enbloc8

Well, I think the big issue there is that photo documentation of C1s/C1A1s is fairly limited, at least in an easily accessed venue (the FAL books by R. Blake Stevens). Most of the photos are of the comparison set showing the first C1 from 1956 and one of the 8L batch from 1968. And since the 8L cuts are similar, if not quite close, to readily-available Aussie-cut receivers....

Imagine what might result if the primary picture reference on M1 Garands showed only a gas trap rifle from 1936 and one of the last rifles from 1957!

I see some of both the old C1 style stocks and the newer C1A1 style stocks in our old Unit pics. No rhyme or reason, just whatever...

But all the new style receivers seem to have the newer stocks, though.

Makes sense, I suppose.

I'm gonna spring for a SUIT sight though. Even though I never used one, my eyes ain't working as good at 50 as they were at 20.

[Gun Dr.]

Sweet looking rifle. Got 10 years on ya and for my eyes the SUIT works well for me.

[72jeep]

This is I belive the corect sling for the C1 as I was issued it in 1983 then given one with plastic 2 years later
http://www.flickr.com/photos/22139355@N06/
It has some markings left may be C^ but mort of a circle with a arrow in it and some #'s
, then 2 lines of letters CBT@#$%^& SLING *&^%$3265

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Yup that sling looks right to me.

I'd sure love to find one!

[72jeep]

Originally Posted by ExCdnSoldierInTx

Yup that sling looks right to me.

I'd sure love to find one!

Send me an IM with your mailing address I sent it in the new year.

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

IM sent

[dirtyrice]

Originally Posted by Russell40

Outstanding! We need to get fellow Texas Fal shooters together for a shoot!

We have a TX FAL shoot every November just south of Dallas. Some guys come out from louisiana and Oklahoma. Many guys near Houston make it when they can. Check for the threads in général meetings and events forum.

Also I would hope the op isn't actually considering roughing up nos Canadian parts just to make the rifle look more like issued. I think I may just bite the bullet and start piecing one together since I have two Brits, one aussie, and am almost done with my Indian.

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by dirtyrice

We have a TX FAL shoot every November just south of Dallas. Some guys come out from louisiana and Oklahoma. Many guys near Houston make it when they can. Check for the threads in général meetings and events forum.

Also I would hope the op isn't actually considering roughing up nos Canadian parts just to make the rifle look more like issued. I think I may just bite the bullet and start piecing one together since I have two Brits, one aussie, and am almost done with my Indian.

I'm looking forward to the shoot next year. I'd like to meet some of te folks here...
I'm Nona have to dig out my old CF issue boonie hat, boots and stuff from 1981.
I know for a fact I couldn't even dream of fitting in my old combats. LOL

No, I'm not gonna drag it behind my truck. Although I did actually consider it for a bit...LOL

I will, however, substitute some used original wood to save the nos stuff.
I have some 2 slot early C1 hand guards and a nasty looking bangedearly style stock that looks like it butstroked a few commies in its day, just need a matching pistol grip.

I also thought of smoothing out the new park on the upper with the finest steel wool, but probably won't do that either.

So no worries there.

[dirtyrice]

Oh ok. My heart just skipped a beat at the thought of that excellent furniture receiving a ding or gouge What was the finish on most of the metal parts like before it was assembled? I'm assuming this was parked by randy or is all nos?

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Originally Posted by dirtyrice

Oh ok. My heart just skipped a beat at the thought of that excellent furniture receiving a ding or gouge What was the finish on most of the metal parts like before it was assembled? I'm assuming this was parked by randy or is all nos?

LOL

The lower was NOS, but Randy engraved original markings per my request.

The upper was a new DSA inch, but of course, I went to town and had it machined with a metric magwell lightening cut and the Canadian thumb relief.

The selector switch was painted, so it needed to be finished.
Stripper clip top cover, NOS flash hider, and all small parts except the NOS rear sight were all also parked.
Barrel was parked.
So basically the whole rifle has new finish except the rear sight.

The rifle is stiff with new finish, and I'm busy working it to smooth it out

Randy really did an awesome job here. I'm a picky sob, and I can't find much to moan about.

The finish matched my Canuck bayonet perfectly.

The only thing I wish I did, but was concerned about legalities so didn't, was put builders marks and serial on the upper. Depending how the Commissars in DC rule, I may do that when it gets shopped by Randy in the future...

[dirtyrice]

Sweet. I'll be picking up my aussie which he refinished at the next market hall show Plus he got by brit's gas issues fixed. Randy is top notch. Too bad he doesn't live as close to me anymore. Used to be able to drive over and bug em Stop by and chat for a little while if you can make it. If you haven't been before his is the table covered in FALs as of late.

[ExCdnSoldierInTx]

Is it this weekend? I had to work today, so if it was, I probably missed you guys.

If its next week, I'll see y'all there! If I can get through the lines of rabid FUDDS!