What do numbers and markings tell about this 03-A3?

[Allred]

I am thinking of buying this A3 rifle. What do the numbers and markings tell me about it? (see photos)

Thanks,

[Midmichigun]

Allred,
I am not an expert, so I will have to let them answer...
However, that is a nice looking rifle! Thanks for posting those photos!
BTW, what is the price range?

[Kirk]

The markings on the stock in front of the magazine are sub-inspector stamps. The RA (ord. seal) 11-43 on the barrel mean Remington Arms; US Army Ordnance; made in Nov 1943. Your 4.13M serial number dates to Dec 1943 which means your barrel is most probably original to your receiver. ViShooter has lots of info about 1903/A3s on his website at http://www.vishooter.net/m1903.html

[JGaynor]

There should be markings on the left side of the stock just above and behind the trigger. There may also be marks on the side of the buttstock.

The small metal parts will be marked with an "R" sometimes enclosed a circle or in some cases an "RP".

Bolts are an entire separate field of study. i would suggest you remove it from the rifle. Record what you find and the location and then post the findings here.

The other piece of information that would be useful is the number of grooves in the barrel.

Regards,

Jim

[Okla-by God-homa]

Also the punch mark in the middle of the "bomb" ordnance mark is the proof mark given after test firing with a high pressure round showing the weapon passed. As stated the marks on the forward part of the stock in front of the magazine floor plate are also acceptance markings.

Looks like a nice piece.

Reference - Collecting the '03 Springfield by Jesse C. Harrison