Thank you for the reply.
a couple of questions. I believe this to be a CMPicon rifle as well.
Are all CMP rifles sold (at least the 1903s) OK to shoot?
The handguard has these repairs in 3 slots. almost looks like someone cut slits in the handguard for cooling. Is that the reason for the repairs?

So basically, this rifle is not "correct". Its a mish-mash of parts. Is this what is refereed to on the boards are a franken-rifle?