Early SA 1903. What do I have?

[cquickel]

I recently purchased an Early 20XXX SA 1903 with several 2nd Alteration parts. Barrel date is SA 1-08. The stock appears to be a RIA 1917 two bolt type with "RI" marked on the tip adn RIA bolt. The rear sight and handguard appear to be WWII. Is this correct? Should I restore? If so to 1903 or1917?

Thanks,

Curt

Information

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[browningautorifle]

I might be tempted to look into the handguard, but you see what a can of worms you open? Which date? Indeed. Just throw money at it, anything can be done...You shouldn't be shooting a rifle that early,( but wait for the disagreements here) I'm not sure it will be cost effective to restore it. The very early parts are almost unobtainium...

[Rick the Librarian]

Interesting early rear sight base, but as far as a bottom up restoration, I agree with BAR above. However, you could find a more correct-looking high hump handguard - the one you have is a WWII replacement. Other than that, I think I'd leave it. On the other hand, a correct pre-WWI rear sight is not that hard to find, if you can match the finish. I don't think I'd do anything else.

Is that an R on the bottom of the bolt handle? If so, it is a Remington WWII bolt.

[cquickel]

Thanks Rixk,
.

I will check

CQ