Two new Smith Coronas

[Calfed]

I glommed two new Smith Corona 03A3's this morning at an on-line estate sale.

#1, which looks like it might possibly be in an original state



And #2 that looks like it is in a Remington stock



Both of these were described by the auction house as "very good condition" (whatever that means) and appear to have serial numbers beginning with 471...

I know that these aren't the best pictures, but the I could not see anything that made me think these were converted drill rifles. However, anytime you buy something sight unseen, it is a leap of faith.

Anyone see anything of concern?[COLOR="rgb(0, 0, 0)"][/COLOR]

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[Mike D]

It might be the pics, but it looks like the lower band on the first rifle is bent. Bolt sleeve is SC, and the curve of the handle looks like that of a SC.

The second rifles bolt is a replacement (not SC), as is the sleeve. Probably been through the arsenal.

They both look nice!

My only concern is that they might be going to the wrong address!

[John Beard]

The first rifle looks o.k., albeit a bit worn.

The second rifle appears to have been arsenal overhauled and re-assembled from mixed parts.

Congratulations!

Hope this helps.

J.B.

[Calfed]

The Smith Coronas arrived today and for the most part were a pleasant surprise.

#1 appears to be all original, S-C barrel dated 6-43, gauges between "0" and "1" on the CMP muzzle gauge, will not close on a US Ordnance FG.

There is an "S" on the extractor and no "X" on the bolt handle. In fact, no markings on the top of the bolt handle at all. On the underside of the bolt, there is a "2" and a couple of punch marks. Overall, the wood and metal are in great shape.

[Calfed]

#2--A total mixmaster. Basically a S-C receiver with RA parts. But..a great bore. RA marked barrel, 8-44, shiny and gauges less then a "0" on the CMP muzzle gauge. The rifle doesn't close on a FG. Should be a great shooter. Well sanded stock, with a few cartouches barely visible.

[Calfed]

I forgot to post this, from the original S-C (#1)

[Calfed]

Nice weather today and got in a trip to the range:

S-C #1--the most original--had trouble. The rear sight windage adjustment turns freely and would not hold the windage setting. Also, had two light primer strikes.

S-C #2--the "mixmaster" with the excellent bore--shot well.


I shot 4 with the "mix master" @ 50 yards to make sure it was on paper. I shot two with S-C #1 and discovered the problems.

I then tried 5 Federal 180 grain Powershok's @ 100. I'm not sure what happened to the 5th one--didn't think I pulled it, but it missed entirely.


I think these have possibilities

[Albayo]

I picked up a near new 03 A3 Smith-Corona a few years ago but some Dumb SOB cut the fore stock off around the middle barrel band. It exposed the relief cut inside the stock to reduce weight. The stamping were excellent and nearly brought tears to my eyes. If I could find a S-C stock in Exc condition I would snap it up to restore it to original. I picked up an 03 A3 stock and restored it as best I could but won't be complete until I get the right stock. It will just have to sit on the rack with the rest of the 03 and 03 A3s, 8 or 9 at last count.

[SGTHurley]

You may be able to restore the original stock by splicing under the band. My SC was sporterized as well and I got the front from a broken stock and spliced it with bedding and biscuit cuts. Then I cleaned it up and stained it to match the rear. You can not tell it was spliced now. There is a guy over on surplusrifle.com who does such good work restoring stocks you would not believe it. Rick the Librarian most likely knows exactly who I am talking about and could probably put you in touch with Lee. Bill.

[Calfed]

Hi, Sarge.

Good to hear from you.

I'm not sure what is wrong with the rear sight on the #1 rifle. The windage knob turns freely, with no "stops" at all. Do you know anything about these?

Thanks,
Steve