Opinion of this 1903

[oldfoneguy]

Handguard seems off shade, not a big deal unless it is incorrect. The barrel date may be 1928 but it looks like a straight bolt handle which means low serial number, unless the bolt was swapped. The pictures are awful, can't tell if it's a Springfield or Rock Island from either the barrel or receiver shots. The cartouch in these pictures looks like it was done freehand. Do you know the maker and the serial number? Personally I would pass because I don't like what I see. But I don't buy sight unseen anyway. Too many possible variables with 100 year guns.

[Mjac]

Too many possible variables with 100 year guns.

Yes sir, true enough. The pictures are not mine and the seller has not furnished any other info at this point. My interest is fading but it is/was fairly local (at least in the same state) I'll be passing for many of the same reasons you mentioned. Thanks.

I had a A3 years ago and foolishly sold it. I am searching for another milsurp to satisfy the itch and have forgotten the many things to look for. Back to school for me, the search continues.
Thanks again.

[Calif-Steve]

Try CMP for a decent M1903. North and South have nice pickens. Good luck.

[ssgross]

The cartouch in these pictures looks like it was done freehand

My first thought was perhaps sanded and refinished at some point would make the stamp look muddy like that - so would a very bad picture - so could 100 years of grime and/or past wet.

Try CMP for a decent M1903. North and South have nice pickens. Good luck.

This is the ticket - if you're looking for something with service history to shoot and enjoy. Given prices I've seen for lesser crap at gunshows or gun broker, you could even break even buying a plane ticket to Atlanta and making the 90min. drive to Anniston. Pick out what you like, have them ship it to your door, enjoy a nice lunch somewhere local and head home. Might as well put another rifle in checked baggage and hit the Talledega range in the morning to make the trip even more worthwhile.