Hi New To Forums

[B_Well]

Hi im new to the forums and I recently purchased a Springfield 1903 Sporter. The serial # 1266919 and I was hoping someone could help verify it. I am new to the 1903's and I am not sure of all the things to look for.
I think I got a good deal on it, the biggest problem with it is someone replaced the buttplate with a padded one.

[Rick the Librarian]

Your rifle is mentioned on the Springfield Research Service list as an NRA Sporter, sold (probably at the National Matches on August 28, 1925. Although your pictures don't show a lot, what I can see looks legit to me. Is there an etched serial number on the bottom of the bolt body?

I see a star gauge barrel and a correct bolt - a WL3? The D&T may have been done at a later time and somebody with more expertise can most likely tell you what kind of scope.

Can I ask how much you paid?

And, last, but not least, welcome to the forum!

[B_Well]

Thank you for the welcome and the information. The bolt is stamped with WL3 with a upside down K. The serial number is not etched on the bolt though.
I purchased it from a local gun shop for $275.00, the owner thought it was just a hacked up 1903. Now that I know that its probably legit I need to find an original butt plate for it. I can post more pictures of it if you want.

[Rick the Librarian]

Now that I think of it, the rifle may be too early to have had the etched serial number.

$275.00?? Even with a replacement buttpad, you STOLE that rifle!! Make sure you make sure your name and picture don't end up in the "wanted" area of your local post office for grand larceny!!!

You have a classic case of "knowledge is power"!! Nice snag! There are several other people on this forum that know more about NRA Sporters than I do that hopefully, will chime in with more information. I'd be curious to know what type of scope the blocks are for.

[B_Well]

In a way I kinda feel guilty about it but its fading. Im actually pretty excited about this purchase. Now if I can find anyone who knows of any replacement or original butt plates for this rifle that would be great.

[Rick the Librarian]

The key would be if the stock has been changed as a result of adding the buttpad. If it has, you may be out of luck.

[B_Well]

The stock doesnt look like its been modified for the butt pad. The butt pad thats on it is a vintage Jostam Anti-Flinch Pad. So hopefully it was just swapped on to it.

[Rick the Librarian]

You might take it off and have a look, before you search too hard for another replacement. Still, a great score!

[B_Well]

Yep I will have to look at it a little bit more before I do to much searching for a replacement butt plate.

[Mike D]

Welcome to the forum! Sounds like you got a hell of a deal.

I see the bolt has been modified for a scope. That might help determine which one was once used. Also, measure the spacing between the blocks, center to center.

Mike