RARE WW2 AUSTRALIAN 303 RIFLE SNIPERS SCOPE BAA 3650 GA 1945
HISTORY
Pattern 1918 (Aust) telescopic sight with the Australian designation BAA 3650 G.A., which was manufactured and assembled in 1945 by the Australian Optical Company (A.O.C.) for use on the Australian-made Lithgow SMLE No. 1 Mk III* (HT) sniper rifle.
Key Details
- Designation: The full marking on the scope tube typically reads: "SIGHT TELESCOPIC PATT. 1918 (AUST.)/1 B.A.A 3650 G.A. A.O.C./V D↑D 1945".
- Patt. 1918 (Aust): Refers to the Pattern 1918 telescopic sight design, adapted for Australian production.
- BAA 3650 G.A.: This is the Australian War Department's catalog or stores reference number.
- A.O.C.: Indicates the manufacturer, the Australian Optical Company, located in Maribyrnong, Victoria.
- D↑D 1945: The "D (broad arrow) D" is the Australian Department of Defence ownership mark, and "1945" is the year of manufacture/acceptance into stores.
- Rifle System: These 3-power scopes were specifically developed during World War II for the Australian No. 1 Mk III* (HT) sniper rifles, which featured a heavy target barrel ("H" stamped on the buttstock wrist) and a cheek-piece.
- Mounting: The specific marking "/1" on the scope indicates it is the low-mount variation. The mounts attached the scope to the left side of the receiver body, using a specific mounting block system.
- Collectibility: The No. 1 Mk III* (HT) sniper rifles, complete with their correct Australian scopes and mounts, are considered very scarce and highly collectible, especially in original, fine condition. The scope itself is a critical component of an original Australian sniper setup.
These scopes represent an important piece of Australian military history and manufacturing during WWII, when the Lithgow Small Arms Factory was producing arms to equip Australian forces. This scope is engraved wit the rifle number it was matched with and issued to, number 10372. The scope comes with its issue canvas carrying bag and optics cover. The optics are clear and in good condition.