Need Advice - Build or Buy a 1941A1?

[Col. Colt]

I was an RSO at a Vintage Sniper Rifle "Match" at Quantico last weekend. There were a number of nice rifles on the line, including a Swiss M96, 1903A4s and 1941A1s. The Precision Weapons Section folks even came out and brought a number of M40A1s from the vaults!

I don't really want to shoot my A4 w/M73B1 and thought a 1941A1 reproduction would be a better choice, especially since my old eyes would really like that 8x on the Unertl versus the 2.5 on the M73B1.

So, anyone have an experience trying to build a 1941A1 or should I just look for one to purchase. My concern is the time to find the right rifle and parts, and then finding the right gunsmith to do the build versus buying a solid build.

TIA.

P.S. Had the honor of meeting Major Ed "Jim" Land, the Father of the USMC Scout Sniper program. He came out and was calling wind and spotting! He's the good looking one in the black hat.

https://www.milsurps.com/images/impo...PG688415-1.jpg

I am close to finishing my "M1941" USMC build - and I built mine from original period correct parts - took a while (2 years) to gather. Started with an original Springfield 1939 "C" Stock cut for Unertl mounts long ago. I know that Chuck in Denver has built many Springfield Snipers, and you might want to talk to him in making your decision. And I understand CMP's custom shop can do this also - but not cheap.

You can probably build a better shooting rifle by NOT using, say, an original barrel in favor of a Krieger or Criterion, squaring the action and starting with new wood and bedding it correctly for barrel pressure. Most agree that you need Steve Earl scope blocks, and either an original 8X Unertl or a massaged Leatherwood/HiLux USMC scope.

I enjoyed putting mine together (only need to drill and tap the original Unertl O&E mounts onto the rifle and buy a scope, now! And it sure "looks the part". But you could have one built and be up and shooting quicker buying it from a professional shop. So, how soon do you want to shoot it ? CC

PS - Congrats on meeting Mr. Land - a real live figure from History - who lead some incredibly brave men. CC