Receiver color 1917

[Ralph in PA.]

I have 2 03 receivers in the very early 700,000 range. Very thin metal finish above the wood line and tons of finish below the wood. I have seen krags with the same look. The barrel finish is a lot better than the receiver. Anyone else ever notice anything like this? My other early rifles seem to be consistant nice finish or consistant weak finish. Thanks, Ralph.

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[Jim Tarleton]

To be honest, I haven't seen a ton of 700,000 range rifles. The thin finish on the portion exposed to the sunlight and other environmental elements, including cleaning rags, is to be expected. Fortunately, the armory finish is a very durable one indeed. Other than normal wear, I personally have no idea. Can you post a picture? That usually sparks more interest in any topic.

Jim

[Calif-Steve]

I had a Drill Rifle in the 600,000 range in mint condition. Bluing was lovely above and below wood. The everyday life in the Army/Marines meant rifles took a beating. They left the Arsenal in superb condition.

[Ralph in PA.]

Jim I will try to post some pics tomorow. I just thought it was odd that the barrel that was exposed looked way better than the receiver that was exposed. Under the wood was the same. Receiver looks almost like bare metal.

[dt1950]

Gentlemen: The Krags and early '03 were casehardened in oil, not blued as the barrels were. The case hardening fades, as does color casehardening, over time to a silvery finish. As the case hardening is a surface finish, where it is protected by the stock it retains the dark color. H.T.