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    Need help with 1903A4

    A friend has a 1903A4 rifle with scope for sale. He has been told that this is a reproduction rather than an original 1903A4 and has priced it accordingly. To my admittedly limited knowledge and what research I've been able to complete online, it appears to me that this may be an authentic 1903A4. The person advising that this rifle is a fake based his opinion on the Model 03-A3 markings on the receiver. I do not know if the person is dishonest or simply not very knowledgeable.



    I am hoping that the group can take a look at some photos I've made give me an opinion on the authenticity of this rifle. I would appreciate any assistance. I'm not sure if my photos are adequate. I'll be happy to provide additional photos or information.





    The serial number is 3411971. If I'm reading the charts right, this number appears correct for an M1903A4 made in June of 1943.



    The barrel has a date of 12-43.







    Several views of the scope follow.







    The markings on the stock are rather faint. On the left side of the stock at the pistol grip are the markings RA, PL and FJA.





    Under the pistol grip is an uppercase P in a circle and an uppercase R, the numeral 3 and maybe a dash?



    Forward of the floor plate are the following:



    Here is an image of the bolt cut.



    The forward sling swivel is marked with a W or M. The swivel at the butt is marked with an R. I don't have an image.

    Again I would appreciate any opinions regarding the authenticity of this rifle.

    Sam
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    A Collector's View - The SMLE Short Magazine Lee Enfield 1903-1989. It is 300 8.5x11 inch pages with 1,000+ photo’s, most in color, and each book is serial-numbered.  Covering the SMLE from 1903 to the end of production in India in 1989 it looks at how each model differs and manufacturer differences from a collecting point of view along with the major accessories that could be attached to the rifle. For the record this is not a moneymaker, I hope just to break even, eventually, at $80/book plus shipping.  In the USA shipping is $5.00 for media mail.  I will accept PayPal, Zelle, MO and good old checks (and cash if you want to stop by for a tour!).  CLICK BANNER to send me a PM for International pricing and shipping. Manufacturer of various vintage rifle scopes for the 1903 such as our M73G4 (reproduction of the Weaver 330C) and Malcolm 8X Gen II (Unertl reproduction). Several of our scopes are used in the CMP Vintage Sniper competition on top of 1903 rifles. Brian Dick ... BDL Ltd. - Specializing in British and Commonwealth weapons Specializing in premium ammunition and reloading components. Your source for the finest in High Power Competition Gear. Here at T-bones Shipwrighting we specialise in vintage service rifle: re-barrelling, bedding, repairs, modifications and accurizing. We also provide importation services for firearms, parts and weapons, for both private or commercial businesses.
     

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    Looks honest to me. The markings on the side of the receiver were put there so they are visible with the scope base installed!

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    Thanks Brian. The person claimed that the rifle must be a fake because the receiver is marked 03-A3 instead of 03-A4.

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    It's got some character from honest use too which appeals to me. Nice rifle.

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    It looks nice and as it should be, however something about the receiver markings is strange. The serial numbers appear to be slightly out of line, aswell the font of the manufacturers marking seem to be ... strange. Compare it with pictures of how it should look like, I'm really not sure whether it's legit or not. Basically nothing looks to be wrong, however nowadays this needs to be checked double time. And if he's really your friend, you should tell him if it's legit or not, if he says the same thing on you aswell he'll then still charge you the same - but none of you will ever have the feeling that someone tried to take advantage of one another.

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    There's nothing strange about the serial number that I can see. I have 3417342 w/ 7-43 barrel. It looks exactly the same to me.

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    It appears to be correct to me. What is the asking price?

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    I appreciate the information. The owner, a good friend, had the price set at $1200.00 thinking that the rifle was not an authentic 03A4. I told him that I thought the rifle was authentic and his price was low. What would be a fair price for an 03A4 in this condition?

    Sam

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    This is a deal between friends. He is placing it into good hands. The price is a about right considering all of this.

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    Actually I am not purchasing the rifle. I am just trying to check on the authenticity and get an idea of the value.

    Sam

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