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Posted: 10/28/2013 5:35:29 PM EDT
Hello I am new here and to the 1903 Springfield rifles. I had a Uncle pass away and his bother (my other Uncle) gave me one of his many rifles. This was used by their father (given to him by his father) that used it for hunting. I have been trying to figure out exactly what has been do to this rifle. My uncle didn't clean his rifles regularly and piled them in the safe. The bluing is worn and a couple of scratches on the barrel.
NO RUST OR PITTING!!! Thanks the Lord! I removed the front sight and it had the Flaming Bomb and dated '6-39'. I looked up the serial # on the receiver and found that it was made in 1919? Maybe I am wrong as I am new to this! Did Springfield 'Sporterize' any of these 1903's or was this done by a gunsmith back in the day? The scope is a Weaver 330 in a T-3 mount. Are these normal on the 1903's? The configuration is odd with the scope to the side but it works for me as I am right handed and blind in my right eye! I plan on redoing the Bluing. Anybody know a good place and prices for this? Also need to find a hood for the front sight! 
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Posted: 10/28/2013 6:39:05 PM EDT
[#1]
That actually looks like a really nice period sporter. I would not restore it to original, because I think there will be a market for those like there is for Newtons and Buffalos, now.
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Posted: 10/29/2013 4:32:35 AM EDT
[#2]
Scope is worth more than the rifle...
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Posted: 10/29/2013 4:44:37 AM EDT
[#3]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
That actually looks like a really nice period sporter. I would not restore it to original, because I think there will be a market for those like there is for Newtons and Buffalos, now. Listen to this man OP . |
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Posted: 10/29/2013 5:32:39 AM EDT
[#4]
Leave it as is. That's a cool sporter, and once you reblue it, it'll never grow that warm, well loved patina back.
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Posted: 10/29/2013 5:40:26 AM EDT
[#5]
Was it common for the barrels to be swapped out?
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Posted: 10/29/2013 5:58:57 AM EDT
[#6]
Meh. I'm in the "Return to as Issued" crowd.
My Grandfathers '03 was in similar condition to yours, without the scope. All I needed to do was find a period issue stock and front sight blade and redo the bluing. I gave it to my father for fathers day and he was ecstatic. Both he and I enjoy the Military Look of rifles. I was able to do it for less than $250. |
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Posted: 10/29/2013 6:15:01 AM EDT
[#7]
It is common to see barrels swapped out in the 1903 model .
You have an interesting piece with some history . Get a copy of the book The 1903 Springfield and its variations by Joe Poyer . There are some photos of what might be your model in there . |
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Posted: 10/29/2013 7:06:43 AM EDT
[#8]
That's a great looking sporter. It's clearly been that way for many, many years.
I'd leave it just as it is. |
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Posted: 10/29/2013 7:24:34 AM EDT
[#9]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Meh. I'm in the "Return to as Issued" crowd. My Grandfathers '03 was in similar condition to yours, without the scope. All I needed to do was find a period issue stock and front sight blade and redo the bluing. I gave it to my father for fathers day and he was ecstatic. Both he and I enjoy the Military Look of rifles. I was able to do it for less than $250. I was wanting to return to Mil-Spec but i like the hunting rifle look! I was looking for one so this works for me. Eddie |
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Posted: 10/29/2013 7:25:52 AM EDT
[#10]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Listen to this man OP . Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
That actually looks like a really nice period sporter. I would not restore it to original, because I think there will be a market for those like there is for Newtons and Buffalos, now. Listen to this man OP . this. |
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Posted: 10/29/2013 8:31:09 AM EDT
[#11]
Considering the extra holes in receiver required to mount scope and Lyman 48 this is pretty much up restorable to original configuration leave as is and enjoy
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Posted: 10/29/2013 10:19:05 AM EDT
[#12]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
It is common to see barrels swapped out in the 1903 model . You have an interesting piece with some history . Get a copy of the book The 1903 Springfield and its variations by Joe Poyer . There are some photos of what might be your model in there . I just ordered a copy on Ebay for $23 shipped. Cant wait to get it! What is the target range of the 1903 rifles? What ammo should I use in it? Thanks Eddie |
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Posted: 10/29/2013 11:50:56 AM EDT
[#13]
That's actually one of the better sporter jobs I've seen in a while. I wouldn't change a thing.
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Posted: 10/29/2013 1:36:31 PM EDT
[#14]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I just ordered a copy on Ebay for $23 shipped. Cant wait to get it! What is the target range of the 1903 rifles? What ammo should I use in it? Thanks Eddie Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
It is common to see barrels swapped out in the 1903 model . You have an interesting piece with some history . Get a copy of the book The 1903 Springfield and its variations by Joe Poyer . There are some photos of what might be your model in there . I just ordered a copy on Ebay for $23 shipped. Cant wait to get it! What is the target range of the 1903 rifles? What ammo should I use in it? Thanks Eddie 03 were run out to 600 yards in high power matches. Any 30.06 ammo will work, assuming it hasn't been rechambered. |
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Posted: 10/29/2013 1:45:26 PM EDT
[#15]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Was it common for the barrels to be swapped out? Looks like the original 03 bbl that has been recontoured to a cleaner sporter profile, still has the anti-rotation/alignment pin slot for the 03 rear sight base & P mark, the number is maybe a heat lot. +3 it is a fairly nicely done period sporter just leave it alone. |
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Posted: 10/30/2013 4:08:13 PM EDT
[#16]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Looks like the original 03 bbl that has been recontoured to a cleaner sporter profile, still has the anti-rotation/alignment pin slot for the 03 rear sight base & P mark, the number is maybe a heat lot. +3 it is a fairly nicely done period sporter just leave it alone. Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Was it common for the barrels to be swapped out? Looks like the original 03 bbl that has been recontoured to a cleaner sporter profile, still has the anti-rotation/alignment pin slot for the 03 rear sight base & P mark, the number is maybe a heat lot. +3 it is a fairly nicely done period sporter just leave it alone. Good eye on the barrel contour 
OP when you get your book check page 46 and see if your rifle is an NRA Sporter . They had star gauged barrels with Lyman 48B rear sights . Bright bolt and contoured barrel like the one you have . If so that is the correct configuration for that model . 
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Posted: 10/30/2013 4:55:04 PM EDT
[#17]
I think it looks right. It has the exact amount of wear that it should have--well kept and well used. Reblue it and it'll look not-right. It's got holes in the receiver--no point in even trying to go back to GI.
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Posted: 10/30/2013 4:57:48 PM EDT
[#18]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I just ordered a copy on Ebay for $23 shipped. Cant wait to get it! What is the target range of the 1903 rifles? What ammo should I use in it? Thanks Eddie Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
It is common to see barrels swapped out in the 1903 model . You have an interesting piece with some history . Get a copy of the book The 1903 Springfield and its variations by Joe Poyer . There are some photos of what might be your model in there . I just ordered a copy on Ebay for $23 shipped. Cant wait to get it! What is the target range of the 1903 rifles? What ammo should I use in it? Thanks Eddie Actually, 1903 were used out to 1,000 yards. Any .30-06 ammo is ok in your rifle. |
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Posted: 10/30/2013 6:03:23 PM EDT
[#19]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Scope is worth more than the rifle... and the rear sight is worth a pretty penny as well, leave as is, it is a nice piece as it sits |
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Posted: 10/30/2013 6:09:26 PM EDT
[#20]
It's beautiful!
A great reminder of family and like it was made for you. Although I'm not sure how that will work with keeping your left eye open or not. Anyways. Congratulations. I wouldn't try to refurbish it back to military specs either. It's too far gone (as someone said with the holes in the receiver among other things) and what you have is excellent anyways. And as someone said, it's possible it was a sporter. I don't know much about that though. And yeah, that scope is saweeeet. I think they might have used those on some 03A4's. I forget. But my guess is it's worth some bucks. |
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Posted: 10/30/2013 6:26:30 PM EDT
[#21]
A classic post-war sporter. It's well done. I wouldn't touch a thing and that family history makes it even more valuable in it's present condition. It's the type of rifle I'd like to add to my collection.
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Posted: 10/30/2013 7:42:44 PM EDT
[#22]
I will be going to the range Saturday!
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Posted: 10/31/2013 5:16:45 AM EDT
[#23]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Meh. I'm in the "Return to as Issued" crowd. My Grandfathers '03 was in similar condition to yours, without the scope. All I needed to do was find a period issue stock and front sight blade and redo the bluing. I gave it to my father for fathers day and he was ecstatic. Both he and I enjoy the Military Look of rifles. I was able to do it for less than $250. But his would need a replacement barrel with the rear sight collar. IMHO, that's not worth doing. As it sits it's a cool looking rifle and reminds me of what I envision as a very cool 1930-50's vintage well done conversion. Enjoy it for what it is is my suggestion. It's a lot nicer than a lot of sporters. |
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Posted: 10/31/2013 6:58:56 AM EDT
[#24]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Good eye on the barrel contour
OP when you get your book check page 46 and see if your rifle is an NRA Sporter . They had star gauged barrels with Lyman 48B rear sights . Bright bolt and contoured barrel like the one you have . If so that is the correct configuration for that model .
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Quoted:
Was it common for the barrels to be swapped out? Looks like the original 03 bbl that has been recontoured to a cleaner sporter profile, still has the anti-rotation/alignment pin slot for the 03 rear sight base & P mark, the number is maybe a heat lot. +3 it is a fairly nicely done period sporter just leave it alone. Good eye on the barrel contour
OP when you get your book check page 46 and see if your rifle is an NRA Sporter . They had star gauged barrels with Lyman 48B rear sights . Bright bolt and contoured barrel like the one you have . If so that is the correct configuration for that model .
I will definitely check when I get the book in. As far as the NRA Sporter goes that I have seen pics of, they have a Barrel band and from what I read they were only offered from 1924-1938. My barrel is dated 1939. I could be wrong! This has been a fun rifle to research. I have learned more about the 1903 in the past few days then I ever thought I would! I feel like I have gotten closer more personal with this rifle than any AR15 I have ever built! Eddie |
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Posted: 10/31/2013 7:27:12 AM EDT
[#25]
It isn't a NRA sporter.
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Posted: 10/31/2013 7:37:02 AM EDT
[#26]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
It isn't a NRA sporter. Thats what I thought! Besides the NRA sporters were marked i think around the Trigger guard area. Anyhow I am happy with it. |
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Posted: 10/31/2013 8:22:47 AM EDT
[#27]
Is the barrel Star gauged
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Posted: 10/31/2013 9:07:54 AM EDT
[#28]
There are no markings on the muzzle!
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Posted: 10/31/2013 11:10:15 AM EDT
[#29]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Is the barrel Star gauged I have a strong suspicion it is. The A/#### shown in one of the photos bears a striking resemblence to a Star Gauge number. Loose Star Gauged barrels were sold through the DCM. OP, Have you had it out of the stock yet? Are there any other numbers on the barrel? |
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Posted: 10/31/2013 7:19:18 PM EDT
[#30]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I have a strong suspicion it is. The A/#### shown in one of the photos bears a striking resemblence to a Star Gauge number. Loose Star Gauged barrels were sold through the DCM. OP, Have you had it out of the stock yet? Are there any other numbers on the barrel? Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Is the barrel Star gauged I have a strong suspicion it is. The A/#### shown in one of the photos bears a striking resemblence to a Star Gauge number. Loose Star Gauged barrels were sold through the DCM. OP, Have you had it out of the stock yet? Are there any other numbers on the barrel? I had it off and do not remeber any. I will check tomorrow after work. |
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Posted: 11/1/2013 7:11:03 AM EDT
[#31]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I have a strong suspicion it is. The A/#### shown in one of the photos bears a striking resemblence to a Star Gauge number. Loose Star Gauged barrels were sold through the DCM. OP, Have you had it out of the stock yet? Are there any other numbers on the barrel? Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Is the barrel Star gauged I have a strong suspicion it is. The A/#### shown in one of the photos bears a striking resemblence to a Star Gauge number. Loose Star Gauged barrels were sold through the DCM. OP, Have you had it out of the stock yet? Are there any other numbers on the barrel? Checked there were no other markings on the barrel. There were other marking under the reciever 
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Posted: 11/1/2013 7:11:49 AM EDT
[#32]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
I have a strong suspicion it is. The A/#### shown in one of the photos bears a striking resemblence to a Star Gauge number. Loose Star Gauged barrels were sold through the DCM. OP, Have you had it out of the stock yet? Are there any other numbers on the barrel? Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Is the barrel Star gauged I have a strong suspicion it is. The A/#### shown in one of the photos bears a striking resemblence to a Star Gauge number. Loose Star Gauged barrels were sold through the DCM. OP, Have you had it out of the stock yet? Are there any other numbers on the barrel? Checked there were no other markings on the barrel. There were other marking under the reciever
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Posted: 11/1/2013 7:18:50 AM EDT
[#33]
Possible to get a better pic of the other numbers on the bbl?
Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile |
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Posted: 11/1/2013 7:34:40 AM EDT
[#34]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Possible to get a better pic of the other numbers on the bbl? Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile As good as I can get with phone 
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Posted: 11/1/2013 12:54:43 PM EDT
[#35]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
As good as I can get with phone <a href="http://s826.photobucket.com/user/fasteddiespumping/media/IMG_20131101_112926_875.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i826.photobucket.com/albums/zz185/fasteddiespumping/IMG_20131101_112926_875.jpg</a> Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Possible to get a better pic of the other numbers on the bbl? Posted Via AR15.Com Mobile As good as I can get with phone <a href="http://s826.photobucket.com/user/fasteddiespumping/media/IMG_20131101_112926_875.jpg.html" target="_blank">http://i826.photobucket.com/albums/zz185/fasteddiespumping/IMG_20131101_112926_875.jpg</a> That is indeed a Star Gauge number. When the barrel was originally sold there would have been a card included with all the pertinant info. That barrel would have been parkerized originally. When the rifle was built the smith buffed off all the ugly green park, and probably the steel lot code, and then blued it. I'd wager the crown is nice and smooth as well. The smith probably redressed the crown as well and that's where the star on the muzzle went. As these were "military" barrels the metal finish was functional and I believe they needed to be a bit coarse for the park to take. A good light and maganifying glass might reveal ghosts of the markings removed. The markings on the receiver are the various subinspector marks. Cool find. Just to reitterate...I would leave it as it is and not refinish or attempt to restore.. |
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Posted: 11/1/2013 1:17:36 PM EDT
[#36]
You lucky son-of-a-gun .
Let us know how she shoots |
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Posted: 11/1/2013 1:35:30 PM EDT
[#37]
There is a very faint mark here!I
I have not cleaned it yet! 
This is clean 
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Posted: 11/1/2013 2:50:11 PM EDT
[#38]
So what is the plus side of having a Star Guaged barrel?
Eddie |
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Posted: 11/2/2013 4:31:47 PM EDT
[#39]
Are Star Gauge Barrels worth more?
Eddie |
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Posted: 11/2/2013 6:00:47 PM EDT
[#40]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Are Star Gauge Barrels worth more? Eddie Yes |
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Posted: 11/3/2013 6:06:06 AM EDT
[#41]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Yes Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Are Star Gauge Barrels worth more? Eddie Yes Thats what I tought. Its a great setup. Eddie |
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Posted: 11/3/2013 8:55:11 AM EDT
[#42]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
Are Star Gauge Barrels worth more? Eddie All the Star Gauge means is it was tested. When it was sold it had a card with it that had the star gauge measurements. Were it in it's original condition, yes, it would be worth more. Here are a couple pictures I pulled from the net to show the normal finish and crown. You can see from the different crown on your rifle why there is no star on the muzzle 
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Posted: 11/3/2013 9:17:09 AM EDT
[#43]
Quote HistoryQuoted:
All the Star Gauge means is it was tested. When it was sold it had a card with it that had the star gauge measurements. Were it in it's original condition, yes, it would be worth more. Here are a couple pictures I pulled from the net to show the normal finish and crown. You can see from the different crown on your rifle why there is no star on the muzzle http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/dracster/StarGaugenumber_zps30186312.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/dracster/Starmuzzle_zps7ac4d858.jpg Quote HistoryQuoted:
Quoted:
Are Star Gauge Barrels worth more? Eddie All the Star Gauge means is it was tested. When it was sold it had a card with it that had the star gauge measurements. Were it in it's original condition, yes, it would be worth more. Here are a couple pictures I pulled from the net to show the normal finish and crown. You can see from the different crown on your rifle why there is no star on the muzzle http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/dracster/StarGaugenumber_zps30186312.jpg http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v498/dracster/Starmuzzle_zps7ac4d858.jpg Ok now I see. I am waiting on my Joe Poyer 1903 book to get here. Thanks Eddie |
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