1903-A3 Barrel or 1903 Barrel

[rigore]

Hello everyone, first post on milsurps. Looking forward to many more!

I recently was given a 1903 complete action and a barrel to go with it by a good friend. Based on the research and comparison of pictures I am thinking I have a 1903-A3 barrel. I've scoured the net looking for barrel dimensions on both barrels but have not had much luck, weird.

I also am a little confused by what I see on the barrel.

#1 Very light roll marks RA 2-44
#2 No visible flaming bomb arsenal marking
#3 No front sight key cut out
#4 No finish on barrel except the muzzle end

Any help identifying the barrel would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[browningautorifle]

I think it's an '03A3 barrel and the finish has been taken off. Maybe even by steel wire brush...the markings may have gone first and thus the steel wire brush...

[rigore]

Additional Pictures

[browningautorifle]

Looks like the front has had a bit of grinding.

[rigore]

It does for sure. My friend said that one of his good friends passed away and his widow and son were cleaning out his shop and found several rifle actions and rifles, she knew my buddy was into firearms so she had the son give my friend a call to see if he wanted them. He knew I wanted a M1903 so he asked me if I wanted it, he gave me what you see in the photos and a Japanese barreled action which I have not yet identified.

So long story short we don't know the history behind the 1903 action and barrel.

[browningautorifle]

The receiver looks OK from way over here and the pics you showed us...the barrel is a bit hashed, but with some TLC could be resurrected I think. Problem is, you need almost everything else. You'd be further ahead to sell them as is and be done.

[Calif-Steve]

Sure looks like an 03-A3 barrel from here. You will spend real money buying parts one at a time. I would sell it off and the Japanese rifle as well. Both will be money pits.

[Rick the Librarian]

The date makes it a M1903A3 barrel - Remington didn't make M1903 barrels after about Jan., 1943 (and darned few of them that month).

[Chuckindenver]

A3 barrel for sure

[rigore]

Thank you gentlemen!

I think I'll sell off or try to trade of this barrel for a 03 one.