[kraigwy]

The problem with the Lee Enfield, (and our M1917) in regards to speed of rapid fire is that it cocks on closing as opposed to cocking on opening as the Springfield, and most sporting bolt action rifles.

In rapid bolt fire, the rifle should never be taken from the shoulder while working the bolt.

Put both rifles to your shoulder and see which is easier, cocking while lifting the bolt or by pushing the bolt home.

In operating the bolt many people teach doing it by the numbers. 1, lifting the bolt, 2 bringing it to the rear, 3, pushing it forward, 4 pushing the bolt handle down into locked position.

Crossman (and COL. Macnab) taught to forget "by the numbers" it should be one smooth motion.

A better method would be similar to the game we played as kids. One kid would extend his hands palms up, the second kid would place his hand palms down just above the first kids.

To slap the second kids hands, the first rolls his hands getting them face or palm down slapping the back of the hands of the second kid.

Working the bolt is the same, Palm up slapping the bolt open, as you roll your hand (to get the palm down) you push the bolt back, as you continue the roll the had pushes the bolt home. Just ONE smooth rolling motion as you would roll and slap the hand above yours.

After a bit of practice you can work the bolt rather quickly without disturbing the sight alignment.

This procedure is near impossible with a rifle that cocks on clothing. The original slap of the bottom of the palm cocks the rifle.