NM 1903 Springfield question

Hello, let me start by saying what an excellent site this is. My question is that I will be obtaining what I think is a NM 1903A1 soon but my only doubt is that while the bolt is polished it does not have 'NS' at the bolt handle root or an etched serial number on it. I recall seeing a '17' on the safety lug but no other markings. The barrel is stamped SA 8-36 and serial number is 1.4 million, I can't remember exactly. Could this be a replacement bolt as I am under the impression the bolts on NM rifles were numbered. Thanks

The bolts were not originally numbered, but by the serial number range you quote they were. The barrel will have the star gauge mark stamped at 6:00 on the muzzle, and will have the star gauge record number stamped on the barrel just ahead of the sight sleeve.

The bolts were not polished on a cloth buffing wheel, and have a distinct pattern around the locking lugs and safety lug.

Thanks, guess I will have to wait until I examine it closer but it does have have the star at the muzzle. I will post pics here or on Vi Shooter's site.

Be sure to look for the star gauge record number that Johnny mentions. I have seen some fake star gauge barrels that lack the number.Something else to keep in mind is that a number of NM rifles were put back into the "system" and used as service rifles.

Check the stock,as well. Is the rifle mounted in a "C" stock....with the semi-pistol grip? Is there a cartouche on the left side near the rear of the receiver? Is there a letter stamped in the cutoff recess of the stock? If so, what is the letter? Is there a Drawing Number and/or serial number stamped
into the under side of the stock between the lower swivel and the grip? Does it have the coarse NM butt plate? Is the "ON" side of the cut-off polished? Is the rear sight leaf polished?

Also.....a 1936 receiver with a matching barrel would be desirable as production was ceased or very limited that year....I would assume because of tooling up for the M1 Garand.

Can you post some pics?

Thanks.

If you can get the full serial number, post it on this forum and request an SRS check. Knowledgeable folks here will let you know if a record exists.

You must post the serial number. Lots of NM fakes out there. Be careful.

I have picked it up, here are a few observations and comments. Looks like I can only post from hosting service so could someone help me get pics up?

Serial number: 1470702
barrel date: SA 3-36
Stock: C pistol grip stock with number by rear swivel (not correct to receiver)
Polished follower, raceway, rear sight
star on muzzle
Bolt seems to be old straight type

thanks

Is the number by the lower butt swivel a "D1836"?

1470702 was not a DCM Sales rifle.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Rick the Librarian

Is the number by the lower butt swivel a "D1836"?

---

Appears to be a serial number but not that of the rifle.