What does the cryptic crossword clue "Does battle losing head and part of a rifle (9)" mean?

The definition is "part of a rifle". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). HINDS (synonym="does, female dear") + IGHT (synonym="IGHT") = HINDSIGHT; definition: "part of a rifle" The answer is HINDSIGHT.

Does battle losing head and part of a rifle (9)

Guardian Cryptic #29023 | 15 Across | 2023-03-21 flower

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