1931 SA 1903 - Decent Buy?

[EarlB]

I've been wanting to get a WW2 representative 1903. Doesn't look like they are too common thru the CMP system anymore. I've found this one but I admit, I don't know alot about 1903's yet. I've owned a couple 03A3's in the past but that is about it.

This much I can figure out about this one, S#1386151 would seem to match up with the barrell date (SA 6-31). The barrel hasn't been used much MW 1/ TE 1, nickel steel receiver with nickel steel bolt. The stock would appear to be a Remington WW2 replacement as is the rear site. The seller is asking about $700 delivered.





And a slideshow of photos of the gun:

http://s242.photobucket.com/albums/f...view=slideshow

Thanks,
Earl

Information

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[Mike D]

I'd buy it. If the barrel is that good, why not? If he's asking $700, start at $600, and see what happens. The finish is worn, but it's got character. The nickel steel is a plus in my book. Doesn't look like you would have much to replace, if you wanted to restore. The current stock set would get you close to a finger groove or C-stock, if you wanted to go that route. Should be a crossed cannons cartouche next to the FJA. Nice gun, very nice pics.

The "B" on the floorplate is a sign that it is a Greek return.

[EarlB]

Thanks. I was wondering how you tell if one is a Greek return or not. Earl

[RBruce]

The mark on the magazine floor plate looks like a Greek mark. Also, the plum color of the cocking piece looks like some of the Greek coloring I've seen.

[LeagleEagle]

$700 seems fair to me. I just bought this Springfield Armory #14430xx, Barrel SA-32, Remington bolt for $736 on Gunbroker

[EarlB]

That's a nice looking one LeagleEagle...I'm still thinking about the other...it will most likely be one before I make my mind up Earl

[Kirk]

The stock has pins rather than bolts; pinned stocks are infamous for cracking & splitting. I don't recall seeing a picture of the stock at the tang; ask for one & see if there is any evidence of cracking or tang-to-wood contact. You may have to replace the stock. Or, if it is in good shape now, sell it & get a stock with bolts.