possibly traded for a 1903 Ross, help identifying?

[flying pig]

I just traded an SKS for a Ross rifle, but I'm not sure which one it is. The front band is closer to the receiver than the 1905's I've seen on here and the butt is shaped differently, more sharp lines than flowing like the others.

What are points to ook at to identify an 03?

I prtomise to put up good pictures when the rifle is in my hands in a week or so. Its sportered also.

Information

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[AGB-1]

Pictures of 1903 Mk I Ross Rifle AGB-1

[flying pig]

Thanks AGB-1!

[flying pig]

Looks like it is a 1903. I have crappy cell phone pics I will post tonight. The rear sight is the same as the top rifle, wood is cut off right at the band, looks like bubba put a Lee-Enfild front sight on it.

---------- Post added at 03:28 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:20 PM ----------

Are there any safety concerns with the 03's like the other Ross's? Would you guys shoot one? If I do decide to shoot it I'll have it inspected by a good smith of coarse.

[flying pig]

Here are the cell phone pics he sent me

[oldpaul]

I suspect that you don't have a 1903, but rather a Mk I*. Firstly, in the book "The Ross Rifle Story" it lists the 1903's as having 26" barrels. Yours appears to be the longer 28" of the MkI and MkI*, only your measurement can confirm that. Next, on page 168 of the same book it shows pictures of both rifles(MkI and MkI*), and yours has the Ross MkII rear sight that is correct for the MkI*. Your pictures make it diffficult to discern but the front sight may be correct, just missing the hood and screws. As you noted the stock has been "sporterized", however the top handguard appears correct for the MkI*. Very nice find, I think worth restoring though perhaps the bayonet lug piece may prove difficult. I would trade SKS's for these any time. Regards. Tom


From the book:
Model: MkI* (second pattern)
Caliber: .303 British
Barrel Length: 28 in.
Magazine Capacity: 5 Rounds
Rearsight: Ross MkII

"This rifle was the result of problems with the MkI and recommendations made by the SSAC to the factory." "The rear sight is the Ross MkII (H.L. Bock patent)." "The Ross MkI* was the result of a conversion of MkI, Ross's by the replacement of MkI and MkI* rearsights with the MkII."

[AGB-1]

Try on The Ross Rifle Forum.AGB-1

[flying pig]

Thanks for the replies! Looks like I best be buying a book. The Ross Rifle Story is the best on them?

I will see if I can find the site and have a look around thanks again!

[flying pig]

Oldpaul, it has a barrel date of 1905, its marked on the butt as well. I have a really long drive for work this morning or would post the pics right now but I really want to go get started on cleaning her a bit.

The rifling is VERY strong. Stock cartouches are strong as well. It has a decent coat of pigeon sh*t on the wood and the metal and bore are filthy. There are quite a few small bits missing, most shouldn't affect its firing ability or safety. The rear sight leaf has broken off the arm at some point and needs repair, they tried to epoxy it on. Wood is in great shape as well, no cracks and actually feels moist. The metal below the woodline has no rust or pitting at all.

[AGB-1]

From the Ross Forum.AGB-1http://www.rossrifle.com/