1903A3 Purchase, what do you think ?

[Hylander]

Just wanted to see what you all think.
I'm planning on buying this 1943 SC
Looks to be in great Condition with correct Sling.
I beleive a 6 groove barrel.
Only thing I noticed is that the stock has an RA stamp, so that would make it an Arsonal replacement, Correct ?
Price is $950
So what do you think ? Honestly

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[Harlan (Deceased)]

"Just wanted to see what you all think.
Only thing I noticed is that the stock has an RA stamp, so that would make it an Arsonal replacement, Correct ?
Price is $950
So what do you think ? Honestly"

The Remington stock strongly suggests it's an arsenal rebuild, or even a parts gun.
If you can get more detailed photos, it will help a lot. If it's an arsenal rebuild SC, or worse a parts gun someone put together, the price is much too high.
You need to identify the small parts to see if they are SC.

From what I can see from your photo, the rear sight looks like it's parked and possibly other parts that should be blued if original.
It's just too difficult to see from this one photo, but I'd put the breaks on and investigate more before spending that amount of money on this rifle.

[Rick the Librarian]

Examine the rifle carefully:

1) Stock: If the rifle has an RA it is a Remington stock, as Cafdfw suggested. If the marking is RA-P that may indicate a replacement.

2) Any R-marked parts are replacements.

3) As I recall, 6-groove barrels were used only on early SCs - it would help if we know the serial number and barrel maker/date.

[Hylander]

If it's an arsenal rebuild SC, or worse a parts gun someone put together, the price is much too high.
You need to identify the small parts to see if they are SC.

Whats wrong with an Arsonal rebuild ?
How do I identify the small parts, what am I looking for ?

[Chuckindenver]

950.00 is top dollar for a A3,
id pass and find one thats nicer, for that kind of money.
thats a 650.00 gun in my book.

[deserttrans]

I attended the Crossroads of the west show in Phoenix this past weekend. A dealler had a SC for sale $850. I asked if I could look it over. Also asked if it was all SC correct. He said of course it is.... One second into look over and see Remington bolt. Handed it back and said thanks.

[Hylander]

How do I identify the small parts, what am I looking for ?
What markings am I looking for and where am I looking ?

[JGaynor]

Whats wrong with an Arsonal rebuild ?
How do I identify the small parts, what am I looking for ?

1. Nothing if the price is right.

2. Examine the parts for a makers stamp. Remington's typically will have a small "R" or occassionally an "RP" (Rochester Products). Remington tended to mark just about every part big enough to hold a stamp.

One way to get started would be to navigate to the top of this page and open the link to Vi Shooters Page. He has nice pics of most of the parts as well as other information.

make a list of what you find and post it. Some of the pieces were made by subcontractors so it's a bit complicated to tell you in advance whats O.K.

NB - the one part that looks Remington to me is the bolt sleeve. SC sleeves are scalloped where the shank of the safety inserts. I don't see that on yours.

good luck and let us know what you find.

Regards

Jim

[Calif-Steve]

What is the serial number and what is the barrel date? Price is OK for a mint, real, untouched rifle. I think $600.00 might be right.

[Hylander]

More Pics of Rifle in question:
In the second pic it almost looks like there is an R stamped on the
Bolt sleeve behind the Bolt handle
I have asked owner for a few more pics