[Trex]

Haven't my reference books available right now, but that tiny arrow confirms the one as British (or at least Commonwealth). The broad arrow goes back hundreds of years, to the time when certain trees, because of their straightness and size, were reserved for Royal Navy masts before they were cut by marking them with it. The particular symbol was selected as distinctive, very British and conventient (just six axe strokes). Virtually all British military equipment is marked with the broad arrow.

So it is indeed an SMLE.

More to follow when my books surface. Hope this helps.

More thoughts: The British stopped making the SMLE in 1943 and switched over to the Enfield No. 4 (which used a completely different bayonet). It is possible that they kept manufacturing SMLE bayonets and such to support those rifles still in service.

However, both Australia and India made the SMLE throughout WW2 and for some time after, so the '43' or '45' could indicate a date. Further, the SMLE was issued to troops from across the empire and it would not be surprising to find that the local govt stamped its eqpt with a distinctive marking. The style of crown indicates that it was made pre-1952 or so. Final option - Khyber Pass copy. Unlikely, but still possible.

My gut feel? Indian manufacture, with the 'swastika' a manufacturer's mark from a small factory or even cottage industry. I stand to be corrected on that. It's a pity the markings are so blurred.