I've been wanting a nice 1903 for years to add to my collection. Two weeks ago I ran across this rifle being sold from a private collection. The collection contained about a half dozen of these along with many other Military surplus rifles. It is honestly in the best condition of any 1903 I've ever seen. It was advertised as All Parts Matching, Like New, Museum Quality. Which is why I paid what I did for it ($1500). Is it possible that this was unissued? Please give me an honest opinion of how I did here. I bought it to shoot but after seeing the condition I'm having second thoughts, what do you think? It feels like a new rifle, the bolt is well lubed but very stiff & not worn in at all. I'm just comparing it to most 1903s that I've seen, they're silky smooth & nicely worn in. from my limited knowledge, the serial#, barrel date, & RLB "C" stock seem to be correct. I've included photos of the marks that I can find. If there are any others I'd be happy to take the photos.
It's gorgeous! It's surely the nicest 1903 I've ever seen.
I'd head over to the CMP forums. They have guys who live and breathe this stuff.
My new account with the CMP forum has been in moderation for several hours now. It's killing me, I can't wait to get there input too!
Thanks for the reply!
SendIt,
Nice rifle! I really like my 03's (A3/A4).
In addition to the CMP forum, if you are on Facebook there is a 1903 group on there as well.
R/
Chris
That is a very nice rifle. It is nice to see an '03 with a "C" stock like that. How do the throat and muzzle gauge?