My very first 03A3...did I get hosed?

[Mike D]

Concerning the stock... The smooth buttplate would not be original to an A3.

A 1903 will fit into a A3 stock, but not vice versa. A3 stocks are inletted for the barrel ring (handguard). A3 stocks are also inletted for the larger recoil lug on the A3 receiver. 1903 stocks would not have the larger inlet.

Which brings to mind a question that I have. When was the larger, rectangular shaped recoil lug, like the A3, approved for the Remington 1903 rifles? Hopefully Rick can help with this.

[desertcop204]

Wow, again, thanks for all the great info. I'll be shooting it, but probably not excessively, so I'll keep and eye on the stock in case signs of cracking show up.

[JGaynor]

Which brings to mind a question that I have. When was the larger, rectangular shaped recoil lug, like the A3, approved for the Remington 1903 rifles? Hopefully Rick can help with this.

ORD 9 SNL B-3 (List of all parts..) 20 may 1944 lists only two bolts D28178 for the M1903, A1 and A3 and C113704 for the A4.

The square safety lug is more than likely just another "production shortcut" implemented by a spares manufacturer.

Regards,

Jim