Quote Originally Posted by martin08 View Post
As it is already altered beyond returning to correct configuration, I don't think anything more will be lost by altering it further. It is a somewhat tasteful looking sporter as it is, however, and it might be worth consideration to trade it for a more common scoped hunting rifle.
I've considered that, but it's been in the family since the 1950's, so I'm not sure if wanna get rid of it.

So I've considered getting a modern rifle instead of the 1903, but my budget is small, $400-500, and not sure I can get a rifle that would even compare with the 1903. Any thoughts?