Eddystone M1917 Rebuild

Joined this forum to do some research and get some input on A Model 1903A3, as I'm looking to get one. However;
A local gun shop has a Eddystone Model 1917, with a JA barrel and what must be the replacement birch stock. No rust or bits or serious issues I could detect, good clean bore. I realize that this is an arsenal rebuild, and the selling price is $599 out the door. I offered $500, and they countered with $550. I was a bit short, so I put them on hold.

I'm probably going to pass on it as I'd prefer an 03A3, but I'm curious if $550 would be a fair price for one of these.

Ken

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Originally Posted by Kenhwind

if $550 would be a fair price for one of these.

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Yes, that is a good price for a M1917.

Agreed and so much better gun than a 1903 (for target shooting the like)

At $600, it is a little on the high side. $550 would be better, and $500 or under would be a decent price for a WWII-era M1917 rebuild. But if you are looking for a good shooter, the JA barrel might be the ticket. They are generally good quality.

If I were considering the purchase, and to be cautious and thorough, I would ask the gunshop to break down the gun to inspect the receiver ring area. Some of the Eddystone receivers cracked after being re-barreled. Not common, but enough have been reported to initialize a safety check.

why would you think an eddystone would crack more so then a Win or Rem??

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Originally Posted by chuckindenver

why would you think an eddystone would crack more so then a Win or Rem??

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Yes, there are recorded failures from all three manufacturers, maybe as much from excessive clamping pressure as from over tightening of the barrels. But somehow, Eddystone gets the bad press, and the OP is considering an Eddystone.

Overall, it is wise to check any re-barreled M1917. Not a common occurrence to find cracks, but a good preventive measure to have it checked for safety purposes, and when making an investment.

hmmm, were are these recorded failures ?
FYI.
all 3 makers used the same steel, from the same plant, heat treated the same way.
i have pictures of a few cracked 1917s.. most are Winchester. all are cracked in the same area, most likely from using the wrong tools, or the right tools the wrong way.
not from crush force pressure.
have yet to see one barreled with a JA barrel that had a crack, not saying its not possible, just havnt seen it.. and i look at more 1917s them most guys.
the cracks iv seen are most like from downward pressure of a wrench being installed backwards. and having the step in the arch of the wrench on the wrong side of the ring.
checking any weapon thats close to 100 years old for damage or cracks. is a great idea.. its not just Eddystones. somehow that got spun a bit via older books, and on the net..