1918 M1903 Springfield Background And Reference Information

[masterdiver330]

Looking for more information on this rifle.

The barrel stamp is SA 2-29 so I would assume this means it was rebarreled with a barrel made in February 1929?

The receiver's serial number for it is 840,585 and from the information from multiple sources I've gathered that means it was manufactured in 1918 and that it's serial number is in the "safe" range [Above 800,000].

From the bolt in the last picture in the set I've posted, it shows the bolt but I cannot tell if it's a swept back bolt but from what I can see on the side of the stock where the bolt touches it, there's a faint white spot so I'm guessing it is a swept back bolt.

Also, from the looks of it, it has an original M1907 sling on it.

But as I stated, I'd like to know more about this rifle and I'd greatly appreciate some help from you guys.

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[Jim Tarleton]

Please email me.

jimtarleton@att.net

jt

[Mike D]

Like I said on the other forum, please get that thing checked out.

[RBruce]

Non-original stock (03A3), sling mounted incorrectly. Need a top photo of the bolt and close ups of the bolt markings.

[Dad]

All that was said above plus:
Why is there a gap between the rear sight base and the receiver?
Is the barrel not fully screwed on or is the rear sight base not installed correctly?
Rear sight base gouged, looks like the wrench slipped.....
Rear sight slide bent.
Head space OK?
Is the rear trigger guard screw loose? The head seems to be sticking out.....

D.

[RBruce]

Replacement rear sight collar - no lightning grooves, probably not seated properly.

[masterdiver330]

I haven't bought this rifle yet but these are pictures of it. I do not currently possess it. I've came on here to get some advice as to if I should buy it or not.

[Calif-Steve]

I'd buy at around $250.00. Pass at $251.00. Lots of issues here. It was/is a parts guns and I would buy only for the barrel, stock and trigger guard value. I'd have to take a real long, hard look at the receiver. Parts value.

[vintage hunter]

As already mentioned the FSB is a wartime replacement so this could be the reason for the gap. Some replacement FSB's had the bottom cross pin hole located a little further back towards the receiver that the older prewar versions. However, before I would buy it I'd have it checked out by a qualified gunsmith because the holes for the scope block were drilled/tapped with the barrel off. It's probably on tight but it would'nt hurt to have it looked at anyway to be sure.

[Calif-Steve]

"FSB" you mean Rear Sight Base? The Army did not install that Rear Sight Base, Bubba did that work. This is a parts/beater gun. Worth the sum of its parts. Do not fall in love with this one.