Need Advice - Build or Buy a 1941A1?

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10-01-2018, 06:53 PM
Defender3

Need Advice - Build or Buy a 1941A1?

I was an RSO at a Vintage Sniper Rifle "Match" at Quantico last weekend. There were a number of nice rifles on the line, including a Swiss M96, 1903A4s and 1941A1s. The Precision Weapons Section folks even came out and brought a number of M40A1s from the vaults!

I don't really want to shoot my A4 w/M73B1 and thought a 1941A1 reproduction would be a better choice, especially since my old eyes would really like that 8x on the Unertl versus the 2.5 on the M73B1.

So, anyone have an experience trying to build a 1941A1 or should I just look for one to purchase. My concern is the time to find the right rifle and parts, and then finding the right gunsmith to do the build versus buying a solid build.

TIA.

P.S. Had the honor of meeting Major Ed "Jim" Land, the Father of the USMC Scout Sniper program. He came out and was calling wind and spotting! He's the good looking one in the black hat.

https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...PG688415-1.jpg
10-01-2018, 09:22 PM
CINDERS

Was not Major Land Carlos Hathcocks C.O in NVN
10-01-2018, 11:13 PM
Col. Colt

Quote:

Originally Posted by Defender3

I was an RSO at a Vintage Sniper Rifle "Match" at Quantico last weekend. There were a number of nice rifles on the line, including a Swiss M96, 1903A4s and 1941A1s. The Precision Weapons Section folks even came out and brought a number of M40A1s from the vaults!

I don't really want to shoot my A4 w/M73B1 and thought a 1941A1 reproduction would be a better choice, especially since my old eyes would really like that 8x on the Unertl versus the 2.5 on the M73B1.

So, anyone have an experience trying to build a 1941A1 or should I just look for one to purchase. My concern is the time to find the right rifle and parts, and then finding the right gunsmith to do the build versus buying a solid build.

TIA.

P.S. Had the honor of meeting Major Ed "Jim" Land, the Father of the USMC Scout Sniper program. He came out and was calling wind and spotting! He's the good looking one in the black hat.

https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...PG688415-1.jpg

I am close to finishing my "M1941" USMC build - and I built mine from original period correct parts - took a while (2 years) to gather. Started with an original Springfield 1939 "C" Stock cut for Unertl mounts long ago. I know that Chuck in Denver has built many Springfield Snipers, and you might want to talk to him in making your decision. And I understand CMP's custom shop can do this also - but not cheap.

You can probably build a better shooting rifle by NOT using, say, an original barrel in favor of a Krieger or Criterion, squaring the action and starting with new wood and bedding it correctly for barrel pressure. Most agree that you need Steve Earl scope blocks, and either an original 8X Unertl or a massaged Leatherwood/HiLux USMC scope.

I enjoyed putting mine together (only need to drill and tap the original Unertl O&E mounts onto the rifle and buy a scope, now! And it sure "looks the part". But you could have one built and be up and shooting quicker buying it from a professional shop. So, how soon do you want to shoot it :) ? CC

PS - Congrats on meeting Mr. Land - a real live figure from History - who lead some incredibly brave men. CC
10-02-2018, 06:06 AM
Defender3

Quote:

Originally Posted by CINDERS

Was not Major Land Carlos Hathcocks C.O in NVN

I believe you are correct.
10-02-2018, 06:17 AM
Defender3

Quote:

Originally Posted by Col. Colt

I am close to finishing my "M1941" USMC build - and I built mine from original period correct parts - took a while (2 years) to gather. Started with an original Springfield 1939 "C" Stock cut for Unertl mounts long ago. I know that Chuck in Denver has built many Springfield Snipers, and you might want to talk to him in making your decision. And I understand CMP's custom shop can do this also - but not cheap.

You can probably build a better shooting rifle by NOT using, say, an original barrel in favor of a Krieger or Criterion, squaring the action and starting with new wood and bedding it correctly for barrel pressure. Most agree that you need Steve Earl scope blocks, and either an original 8X Unertl or a massaged Leatherwood/HiLux USMC scope.

I enjoyed putting mine together (only need to drill and tap the original Unertl O&E mounts onto the rifle and buy a scope, now! And it sure "looks the part". But you could have one built and be up and shooting quicker buying it from a professional shop. So, how soon do you want to shoot it :) ? CC

PS - Congrats on meeting Mr. Land - a real live figure from History - who lead some incredibly brave men. CC

Thanks for the first-hand advice. I think I'll go repro after seeing a Unertl on GB for $4600! My M73B1 was less expensive, but I'm not sure I want to be carting either around when a repro fits the bill. I had considered giving Chuck a call as he is certainly one person I'd trust to do a great job putting one together.

Thanks again, oh, and I'd like to be on the line soon!
10-02-2018, 10:41 PM
Randy A

Sported 1903 actions are cheap and plentiful, round up your parts and have Chuck do what work you need. Its enjoyable, you know what you have, you know that the work was done with care, it's something to be proud of and more enjoyable.
On another note, have you tried a K2.5 on the A4..... might like it compared to the 330?
10-03-2018, 06:54 AM
Defender3

Quote:

Originally Posted by Randy A

Sported 1903 actions are cheap and plentiful, round up your parts and have Chuck do what work you need. Its enjoyable, you know what you have, you know that the work was done with care, it's something to be proud of and more enjoyable.
On another note, have you tried a K2.5 on the A4..... might like it compared to the 330?

Good point. I spoke with Chuck yesterday and have a plan.

The issue for me is simply being older with older eyes. An 8x would be preferable so I could reduce an shooter induced errors in hold.