New CMP 03A3 Barrels

[JohnF]

Tried search, but did not find anything on the forum. Has anyone bought and installed the new 1903A3 commercial barrel that the CMP is offerring? Does anyone know if the keyway slot for the front sight is cut and present? Is the barrel timed and have an index mark?. There are always pitfalls, and I would like to hear any input if you have any. The M1 barrels I have used from them install and headspace great with no problems. Just wondering if the 03A3 barrel they offer was the same.

Information

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[barkerwc4362]

I saw the 1903A3 and the 1903 barrels when I was at the South store yesterday. Both had the from sight key way present. I didn't look too close, but the same cut seemed to be present on both barrels. Which I thought was a little strange, since I was under the impression that there was a difference between the front sight bases. Overall they were parkerized a nice dark gray like the M1 barrels. I can't tell you about any index marks.

Bill

[Chuckindenver]

iv seen them both with and without index marks, the few iv installed, had issues, from not indexing correctly, to missing the mark all together..
i personlly would pass on them.

[Calif-Steve]

Is there a shortage of real USGI 03-A3 barrels? I still see them a gunshows. '03 barrels are a different matter.

[Jim Tarleton]

The machining of the original barrels was an awesome and very accurately accomplished feat. It is my belief that the sequence of machining events in Colvin & Vial is incorrect for the earlier barrels.

Jim

[JohnF]

Thanks for the input gentlemen.