Need Help!

[03a3]

I am putting a 1903a3 back to original configuration, but cannot figure out how to install the handgaurd ring. My handgard sits too far forward if the ring doesn't fit against the receiver. Any help is appreciated!

Information

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[Mike D]

Hi, welcome to the forum. Just to be sure you have the correct parts, check out this link - Remington 1903A3 (displaying original configuration and finish) It's a "sticky" at the top of the page.

I'm wondering if you have the correct handguard and ring.

[emmagee1917]

On an 03A3 , the ring is supposed to be against the reciever. On an aside , however , be sure it's a 1903A3 ring and not a M1917 ring. The A3 ring would be marked "R" or "RP" on a Remington and blank on a S/C. The 1917 rings could be marked "R" -Remington again , E- Eddystone, or W-Winhester.
Chris

[03a3]

Thanks for the reply and the welome...Far as I know the handgaurd ring is specific to the a3 so I wasnt thinking that would be an issue. I had also thought that perhaps the handgaurd was the issue, but after sending it back and order a New, Old Stock handgaurd that came up to the same dimensions I am now thinking that it must be that the ring is not seated far enough back, but it will not fit over the front of the reciever. I am stumped. Anyone had any experience in installing that ring please let me know.

---------- Post added at 11:01 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:53 AM ----------

On an 03A3 , the ring is supposed to be against the reciever. On an aside , however , be sure it's a 1903A3 ring and not a M1917 ring. The A3 ring would be marked "R" or "RP" on a Remington and blank on a S/C. The 1917 rings could be marked "R" -Remington again , E- Eddystone, or W-Winhester.
Chris

That is a good point. Didn't think it could be a 1917 ring. Might need to pick up another ring and see if that works. Thanks for the insight!

[emmagee1917]

On the very front of the reciever is a reduced diam. section the same thickness ( front to back ) as the ring. The ring fits on there. The small part of the ring is underneath , the large part up to take the handguard. You will see a little cut out in the A3 stock for this ring to fit into so that will tell you if it's all the way on. It does fit onto the smaller reciever OD and butts up against the larger OD.
Chris

[03a3]

Ok just looked at my ring and its unmarked, so I guess that means smith corona? Should that ring slide easily onto the receiver? This one will not even start to slide over just hits the side where the barrel and receiver meet

[browningautorifle]

It's not for a #4 Lee Enfield is it?

[03a3]

I purchased from Numrich (gunparts corp) who is not my favorite so now I'm starting to wonder...but the ring is unmarked (smith corona?). Just confused and frustrated because i have all other correct parts and ready to reassemble! Check out the photo in my album (cant figure out how to post to this thread) and let me know what you think. Thanks guys for the help

[browningautorifle]

That's the thing about that particular part. There are so many models that use one close and they can be mistaken. I would see if these fellows have one they can send you to end your pain???

[daveboy]

Yeah, it definitely is not going all the way back. It should sit back to that protusion on the right side of the receiver.

Have you tried a little persuasion? Some of these rings are tight. Ensure it is square with the receiver and gently tap it with a block of wood. It should slide back another 1/4" or so.

It is completely round, right? The bottom of ring is pretty thin and is easily misshapen. If so, tapping on that area with a punch and hammer while you are sliding it on will reform it.

If all else fails, and you don't want to wait any longer to assemble your rifle, just cut the ring at the very bottom. Slice right through it with a large pair of wire-cutters or a hacksaw. This will allow the ring to expand a little. Once you get the rifle all put together you will never know this has been cut and the handguard will stay on just fine (trust me, I've done it). These rings are plentiful and cheap if memory serves me.

daveboy