SA M1903 appraisal needed,

[Calif-Steve]

Look for damage around the cut-off. Also out of the stock look at the bottom of the receiver where the barrel screws in. The Army welded the cut-off in place and then also welded the barrel to the receiver. Good luck.

[bulldog_mack13]

Thanks , I gave up as this guy is set on his price.

I put up a WTB ad in the forum now, Jay

[Kirk]

I think so, whats some of the red flags thats its a drill? The welds?

Im going to pass on this one and go look for a WW1 1903. , Jay

The Army welded the mag cut off closed so welds by the cut off are the best clue. The photo shows welding only on one side - usually, it i both. The Army also welded the bolt face but that and the cut off are typically replaced. The Army welded the barrel to the receiver at the 6 o'clock position - visible only when removed from the stock plus drove a steel rod into the chamber. Barrels are typically replaced but not always. Look for a shiny spot (residue from welding) at 6 o'clock on the receiver ring. It may or may not be visible with the barrel installed. Discoloration of the finish is a clue as well - unless the gun was refinished. The Army also torch cut a hole in the bottom of the barrel about 2-3" in front of the receiver. That's a dead giveaway!

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[Calif-Steve]

Thank you, Kirk.

[bulldog_mack13]

Yes thank you. Thats amazing what people will try and pass off as a GI 03' thats correct and orginal.

[musketshooter]

Drill rifle parts gun! Hardly worth the effort to even look at it. If it is listed as an original rifle, the seller is completely mis-representing it. STAY AWAY!

[DeputyBill]

Yes thank you. Thats amazing what people will try and pass off as a GI 03' thats correct and orginal.

My hat's off to you, BD! You're wise to consult this forum; I'd do the same, were I contemplating an M1903 purchase!
I'd like to recommend you find Lt. Col. Brophy's "The Springfield 1903 Rifles," to further your knowledge. You'll likely have to search a while to find a copy, as the book is no longer in print.

[Rick the Librarian]

My hat's off to you, BD! You're wise to consult this forum; I'd do the same, were I contemplating an M1903 purchase!
I'd like to recommend you find Lt. Col. Brophy's "The Springfield 1903 Rifles," to further your knowledge. You'll likely have to search a while to find a copy, as the book is no longer in print.

Actually , copies of Brophy's book are fairly easy to find, and considerably below the $85.00 retail price. Try this link for a list of online bookstores that carry his book:

http://www.addall.com/New/compare.cg...itle=&state=AK