1903 Drift Slide Peep Sight

[drsteve]

I have a question for you guys that shoot their 03's in highpower matches.

The drift slide on my 1903 ladder sight is stamped with an X on the left and a 6 on the right. I was told or I read (can't remember which), that the Xed out part was probably marked with a 5 and enlarged to a 6 when the rifle was in re-arsenal. Unfortunately, the # 6 peep is still two small for me. My target acquisition goes all to hell after I work the bolt.

I do have an extra drift slide that I can enlarge the aperture on. What is the best way to do this? I understand that the USMC sights had a # 10 aperture.

Is that the same size as the peep sight on the 1903-A3; because that's too large for me? I guess I'm picky.

Also, I don't have a drill press.

Kind regards,

Steve

[Bob S]

When the rifle was first ussued, there were three sizes of aperture: No. 4, No. 5 and No. 6; being .040", .050" and .060" respectively. The "standard" was the No. 5. Later, the "standard" was changed to No. 6, and when rifles came in for overhaul, the No. 5 apertures were reamed out to No. 6. and remarked. The larger sizes (No. 7, 8 and 9) were added, but these "spares" were packed in the cases of ten rifles. I'm not sure how "rare" the larger sizes are, but I have only one of each in my collection ... someplace. Most WW II production apertures are a "nominal" No. 6 ... and most of those are are unmarked.

When the 03 was THE Service Rifle at Perry, vendors sold little hand reamers that could be used to ream out the aperture to a larger size to suit the shooter's needs. I'm not sure if there was any restriction in the size of the aperture. I have the 1935 Rule Book and one from the 20's, and there is no mention of any restriction. In the latest CMP rule book for the "as issued" category, the aperture can be reamed out to a max of .100", which was the size of the Marine Corps aperture.

I have used a small rat tail file from a "jewel's set to ream out the aperture; insert from the front of the sight (muzzle side) so the taper will open toward the muzzle and turn it "backwards" ... counter-clockwise. When done, dip a round tooth pick in cold blue and run it into the aperture. I find that a No. 8 size or larger works the best for my ancient eyes.

Resp'y,
Bob S.

[drsteve]

Thanks Bob.