Santa Fe Model 1944 .303 British

The Santa Fe Model 1944 is a post-World War II sporterized bolt-action rifle chambered in .303 British, produced by the Golden State Arms Corporation (also known as Golden State Arms Corp.) in Pasadena, California. It was part of a series of commercial conversions aimed at turning surplus military rifles into civilian sporting firearms, popular in the 1950s and 1960s. Golden State Arms was one of the early North American companies specializing in such modifications, offering around 11 Enfield variants under the "Santa Fe" branding, with the Model 1944 being a mid-range option in their lineup.

Historical Context and Design

Base Rifle: Built on a British Lee-Enfield No. 4 Mk I action, originally manufactured in England around 1944 (hence the model name). These were WWII-era military rifles imported as surplus after the war.

Sporterization Process: Golden State Arms modified the military stock by shortening it, refinishing the wood (often with a rubber recoil pad marked "Santa Fe"), and bluing the metal for a more civilian-friendly appearance. The stripper clip bridge on the receiver was typically removed, and the rear sight housing was altered or eliminated. Some examples feature engravings or custom touches, like a Confederate flag on the stock (as seen in rare auction listings).

Markings: The left side of the barrel is usually stamped "Santa Fe Model 1944 / Golden State Arms Corp Pasadena Calif." The barrel band may retain original British markings like "England" followed by the serial number (e.g., 65848 or 66354).

Production Era: Conversions occurred circa 1950–1960 through Golden State's "Santa Fe Division," which also sporterized Mausers and other surplus arms.

Specifications

Caliber: .303 British (rimmed cartridge, effective for hunting medium game like deer).

Action Type: Bolt-action with a removable box magazine (typically holds 5–10 rounds; some trimmed versions accept 7 rounds).

Barrel Length: Approximately 22 inches (shortened from the original 25-inch military barrel for better handling in sporting use).

Overall Length: Around 42–44 inches.

Weight: Roughly 7–8 lbs (lighter than the full military configuration).

Sights: Drift-adjustable flip-up rear sight and fixed front blade (military-style, but often simplified).

Bore/Rifling: 5-groove Enfield rifling (right-hand twist); condition varies by example, but many show good to very good bores with bright rifling and minimal pitting.

Serial Numbers: Typically in the 4–5 digit range (e.g., 17772, 65848).

Condition and Value

These rifles are collectible as Curio & Relic (C&R) items, eligible for transfer to C&R licensees in the U.S. (with state restrictions, e.g., not directly to California residents). Current auction listings show them in good to very good condition, with:

Wood: Refinished military walnut or similar, showing compression marks, scratches, or nicks but no major cracks.

Metal: Blued finish with light wear; functions well mechanically.

Ships Free to the FFL of your choice!