03 Bolts

[mike webb]

I have a 1918 vintage 1903 in really nice shape except some idiot shaved the bolt handle to clear a scope years ago. Don't know a lot about Springfields but I am thinking bolts were not serialized to the action? If not is a new bolt body from that period from SA a tough item to find? Another strike against me is I live in Canada where 1903 parts are a little harder to find . Any info would be appreciated.

Information

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[butlersrangers]

Try this link for valuable 1903 Bolt information: http://www.vishooter.net/m1903.html

or Google search: Vi Shooter's M1903 Page

[mrclark303]

I've often wondered why 1903 bolts aren't serial numbered to the rifle?

I think I've seen it on a few ex Greek examples that came to the UK, electro penciled on the bolt, by the importer / exporter perhaps?

[m1903rifle]

The USMC put the serial number on their M1903 bolts.

[mike webb]

Thanks for the info and link. I will try and source a bolt body for it. Dont know if shipping outside US is allowed now or not.

[John Beard]

I've often wondered why 1903 bolts aren't serial numbered to the rifle?

I think I've seen it on a few ex Greek examples that came to the UK, electro penciled on the bolt, by the importer / exporter perhaps?

Unlike foreign military rifles where parts were individually selected, hand-fitted, and serialized to the rifle, U.S. Army Ordnance insisted on holding tight manufacturing tolerances so that parts would be fully interchangeable, thereby greatly simplifying costly and cumbersome logistic support in the field.

J.B.