303 BRITISH for Sale

Quick Look

The .303 British cartridge was originally developed in the late 1800s for use in Lee-Enfield rifles. It became the standard military rifle round of the British Empire for decades. Today, it remains popular among military surplus collectors and hunters looking for classic bolt-action rifles.

Why It's a Top Choice

• Proven performance in both world wars
• Excellent choice for collectors of military surplus firearms
• Ample aftermarket support for sporterization and restoration
• Capable medium-game hunting cartridge with proper loads
• Historic and collector value adds long-term interest

Key Variants

Lee-Enfield No.4 Mk1

Wartime production model widely issued during WWII, known for robust reliability.

Lee-Enfield SMLE Mk III

World War I-era rifle with quicker bolt action and broad surplus availability.

Ishapore 2A1

Indian licensed production variant known for rugged build and post-war service life.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	.303 British	7.62x54R	8mm Mauser
MSRP	Varies by surplus model	Low to moderate	Moderate
Capacity/Size	Typically 10-round magazine	Typically 5-round magazine	Typically 5-round magazine
Weight	~8.8 lbs (unloaded)	~9.0 lbs	~8.6 lbs
Optics-Ready	Rare, usually sporterized	Some models modified	Requires modification
Trigger Type	2-stage military	Standard military	Standard military
Notable Pro	Smooth, fast bolt action	Still in military use	Powerful with surplus availability
Notable Con	Less common ammo today	Heavier recoil	Fewer upgrade options

Best Use Cases

• Military surplus collecting
• Historic shooting reenactments
• Medium-game hunting
• Long-range range practice
• Sporter conversion projects

FAQs

Can I still find ammo for .303 British rifles?

Yes. Manufacturers like PPU, Hornady, and Sellier & Bellot still produce .303 British ammo.

What is the effective range of the .303 British?

Effective range is around 500 yards, depending on rifle condition and ammunition.

How does the Lee-Enfield compare to modern bolt rifles?

It's heavier and slower to customize, but known for its speed and rugged design.