M1903 Marine sniper/Win A5

[m4carbine]

HI all,

I have recently come into an excellent condition A5 Winchester with the correct Mann-Neidner rings.

Where is the best place to find the rifle that goes under this scope.

Thanks in advance
Marty
Basdger Ordnance

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[Jim Tarleton]

In the Marine Ordnance landfills and buried in the mud of France. I am not trying to be funny either. You are searching for the rarest of all 1903's, and I can assure you that about 99+% of all those you find for sale are less than authenticate. To find one in original condition would be remarkable indeed, and very expensive if the seller knows what he possesses. I have many pictures of WWI USMC A5 sniper rifles in some of the finest collections, including a few in Europe (I cannot publish them per my agreement with the owners). If you know exactly what to look for as to identifying marks, etc., it is still a daunting endeavor. You are most likely to find one by accident than on purpose. I can count the real ones I have seen on one hand. Fakes abound. I have never seen a real one for sale.

Bear in mind two things: 1. Darned few of them were ever made, and 2. the ones that were made were assembled 90 years ago and many, if not most, were used in the most intense combat situations imaginable (read attrition).

I suggest you research the rifles as much as you can to avoid being taken by some sharp guy with a limited knowledge of the rifles, but possessing a drill, bits, and a tap (the tap is most interesting indeed).

Would you mind sending me some pictures of your scope, particularly the bases?

I wish you nothing but good luck. Please keep me posted.

Jim

[m4carbine]

Hi Jim,

I know that these are scarce, but I have a few other sniper that are more rare, so I am trying to be optimistic.

I will get some pics shortly.
Marty

[Jim Tarleton]

You may be surprised to discover that there were only 150 of the original Niedner rifles ever made. Of those 150 rifles, I know of only two that exist today. That is pretty rare. There were others, but not with scopes mounted by Niedner.

If you need help, let me know. I have been tracking these rifles for years now. It has become an obsession.

Jim

[Phrogpilot]

I have a mint, unissued leather carry case for the A-5 just waiting for the right rifle...:-)

[m4carbine]

I have a scope just dyeing for your case