Time to sell your 1903A3's

[Mike D]

Well, I agree with alot of what you guys said. The NR buyer probably won't pay, crazy amount of money, they're popular (TV, inexpensive, most anyway), too many people with money wanted it, it was a fluke.

But no historic association? No real combat history?

Maybe not alot, but it is still a variation of the 1903. It was used in combat on many WWII battlefields. It was the last bolt-action rifle built for the military. Distributed to numerous countries as post-war military aid.

Lets not forget the A4. Used throughout WWII, Korea, and into Vietnam. It was an A3 with a scope mounted. Period.

The 1903A3 was a purpose-built, no frills rifle. It did its job well. No, its not a jaw-dropper, but I'll always have one. And ever since I've owned one, it always makes the trip to the range.

Like a late war K98k, or last ditch Arisaka, its a result of War. Its U.S. Military firearms history.

[Peconga]

Well, as an update on the auction, the "NR" buyer of this high-dollar 1903A3 followed through with his purchase, and has since bought a 1903/A3 ordnance manual and a couple of bayonets. It also appears that the other bidders (it takes at least two to have an auction) were not rookies, so only time will tell whether $1975 is a new high-water mark or was just a fluke.

Cheers,
Peconga in Boise, Idaho

[Mike D]

Fluke. The seller probably couldn't stay in his chair as he watched the auction. Then he most likely prayed the buyer would make good.

After the bid reached $1000, all bidders except 2 dropped out. $1,000 is a more accurate value.

As much as I like the Rem A3 I own, I'll gladly sell it for twice it's value.

[Arisaka99]

Interesting to have both Ogden and Rock Island check-test marks. Quite a travelled rifle!

[RETREAD]

Seems like a very high price, but some guys collect for condition only. I have seen mummy wrapped rifles sell for less recently. I don't think the sling was a Kerr sling. Looked like a faded out or bleached cling.

[browningautorifle]

No, that's not a Kerr sling. Maybe early tan pattern, but I've had more copies than real ones...