Rarity of Original Pre-WW1 Service Rifles

[Fred G.]

That is one fine looking rifle!

[rayg]

Nice rifle and for a great price. Apparently the average collector doesn't recognize the value of these early 03's as I picked that early 1907, first run RI, I posted above for only $725 total, last year on Gun broker also. Ray

[Fred G.]

You guy's are both lucky!

[rayg]

[QUOTE=rice 123;323322 This original 1907 complete with sling and oiler I got off gun broker a couple of years ago no one bid on it I think I got it for $900
Attachment 59950

Just noticed those notches on the hand guard are intentionally cut. Either they are for battle kills or number of deer taken with the rifle. I have an all original period untouched condition M1A1 paratrooper with notches also, that I would bet are battle kills, as the gun shows other war use because the steel metal sling ends have been painted over with OD paint to prevent any reflection. Makes you wonder where they have been. Ray

Attachment 59947Attachment 59948Attachment 59949

[Fred G.]

Way Cool!

[m1903rifle]

Here's an early one that might not be a service rifle.

[rayg]

That's a beauty....What am I missing that you don't think it's a service rifle? Could you post more photos in order to make a better judgment. Looks like the gas release hole on the left side of the receiver may be plugged, maybe cosmoliene? It does have the early solid hand guard with no sight grove. Nice rifle. Ray

[Fred G.]

Here's an early one that might not be a service rifle.

Wow. That rifle is phenomenal. Wow again...!

[m1903rifle]

More pictures

[m1903rifle]

And still more pictures. A well known authority on M1903 rifles says that this rifle might be a very early NRA Sales rifle.