First shots.... Sporterised a3/03

Glaciers

Alaska Land of the Midnight Sun
Yes it seemed pretty busy, but, I'm talking about the bolt of your rifle is on the wrong side. Most have been something to do with the camera.
LOL
 

todd

Well-Known Member
very nice rifle!!!!!!

i had a bishop/fajen stock on my 30-40 krag. its put away in my safe.
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now i have the original sporter stock. it was grandpappy's rifle.
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Mowgli Terry

Active Member
That's a nice old gun. You gotta remember 1903 barrels were not rough on the outside like A3 barrels. The 03 barrels would clean up with a minimum of work compared to the 03-A3 barrels. Early on when collecting 03's started a fact about serial numbers was discovered. Receivers were not used in numerical order. In one example a rifle was assembled five years after the receiver was numbered. That number under the front sight says 03. On an A-3 here the barrel has been turned down. There is a noticeable taper.
 
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Mowgli Terry

Active Member
There was a comment earlier on what Springfield Armory was doing in your serial number range. On National Match Springfield's Star Gauged barrels were used. These barrels were noted for accuracy. These barrels could be identified by a star shaped mark on the muzzle. If it's on your rifle do not let anybody mess with that mark. That would get you serious points in the Bubba Hall of Fame.
 
As a 65 year 1903 Springfield collector, you have a 1903 nickle steel action, the second most cherished. The barrel being 2 groove has to be an 03A3 barrel made as a wartime expediant. They shoot as well as a 4 groove with the right cast bullet. The markings obsscured by the front ramp ( a very desirable one) are bbl date and maker. RA44 would be Remington made in 1944. My 60+ collection has been pared back to 5. 6.5x55 22-06, both double heat treated actions (the best) by RF SEDGLEY restored by Turnbull.

The original Lyman Cast Bullet loading book is avaiable in reprint and has info on 2 groove and cast. BUT here's an original which is a $100 item https://www.ebay.com/itm/313705374586?hash=item490a4c237a:g:fmYAAOSwTzJhKxbL

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