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  1. #1
    Legacy Member Longrun4ever's Avatar
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    SA 1903 Early

    My dad gave me his SA 1903, I researched it and this is what I found.
    1) It was manufactured in 1905 (SN 107,***)
    2) Barrel is dated 11-10
    3) Sporter stock
    4) He acquired it in 58-60 timeframe and has never shot it.
    5) We have read about the heat treat issues on the early models which recommends not to shoot them.
    6) Barrel length is 23" +/-

    I would like to get it back to as close to original as possible. I have researched stocks but usually can't get an answer if it would fit my rifle. So if anyone can help, I would appreciate it.
    1) Did the original stock for a 1905 manufacture have the hand grip notch on the side of the stock?
    2) What cartouches should be on an 1905 stock?
    3) What would I need to look for when looking at a stock that would fit the early model? Will they all fit? I see a few different models over the years.
    4) Rifle is in pretty decent condition, no rust/pitting, bore is shiny, doesn't look like it was ever re-blued. It has been stored away for the last 60+ years. So, an original stock would be anywhere from $250-$400, I would assume that that would increase the value tremendously, what would be an expected price range for this early rifle, A) Ballpark # as is in a sporter stock and B) Ballpark # if put back close to original old stock.

    Much appreciate your time. Thanks.
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    A Collector's View - The SMLE Short Magazine Lee Enfield 1903-1989. It is 300 8.5x11 inch pages with 1,000+ photo’s, most in color, and each book is serial-numbered.  Covering the SMLE from 1903 to the end of production in India in 1989 it looks at how each model differs and manufacturer differences from a collecting point of view along with the major accessories that could be attached to the rifle. For the record this is not a moneymaker, I hope just to break even, eventually, at $80/book plus shipping.  In the USA shipping is $5.00 for media mail.  I will accept PayPal, Zelle, MO and good old checks (and cash if you want to stop by for a tour!).  CLICK BANNER to send me a PM for International pricing and shipping. Manufacturer of various vintage rifle scopes for the 1903 such as our M73G4 (reproduction of the Weaver 330C) and Malcolm 8X Gen II (Unertl reproduction). Several of our scopes are used in the CMP Vintage Sniper competition on top of 1903 rifles. Brian Dick ... BDL Ltd. - Specializing in British and Commonwealth weapons Specializing in premium ammunition and reloading components. Your source for the finest in High Power Competition Gear. Here at T-bones Shipwrighting we specialise in vintage service rifle: re-barrelling, bedding, repairs, modifications and accurizing. We also provide importation services for firearms, parts and weapons, for both private or commercial businesses.
     

  3. #2
    Legacy Member Daan Kemp's Avatar
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    Pictures, many of them, allow the experts to give you quick and accurate advice. Post lots of them.

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    Legacy Member Longrun4ever's Avatar
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    Thread Starter

    Pictures of SA1903

    Pictures attached of the SA 1903, thanks.

  6. Thank You to Longrun4ever For This Useful Post:


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    Contributing Member Singer B's Avatar
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    I just did one of these refurbishments last year for a friend. The parts ran a little over $500. If I remember correctly, for a 1905 manufactured rifle, you would be correct to place it in a "scant" stock (straight wrist with no "pistol" grip). Most parts were readily available back then but not sure about right now. Good luck, it will look great when you are done!

  8. #5
    Advisory Panel browningautorifle's Avatar
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    Barrel looks to have been polished and blue but it could just be reflection. Bolt has been jewelled but that can be bead blasted off. It's been drilled and tapped for that rear sight, that takes away but those can be filled. It's hard to make them go away completely though. We do have a gunsmith here that deals in those very rifles too...
    Regards, Jim

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    Legacy Member Daan Kemp's Avatar
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    Nice stock. Selling it might pay for some of the restoration. However, since it was your father's as is, consider the sentimental value.

    The experts would like to see any and all marks on the metal, to be able to comment.

  10. #7
    Advisory Panel browningautorifle's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by Daan Kemp View Post
    consider the sentimental value.
    I was thinking it looks great as is...
    Regards, Jim

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    Legacy Member RCS's Avatar
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    I have restored a few 1903 receivers into complete rifles - but your example I would leave alone, just keep it as a vintage sporter

    As a note: your receiver was in my opinion, is not with the original barrel and was re-barreled with the 1910 barrel later on, a single bolt 1903
    stock with any kink of cartouche is very difficult to locate as well as the early hi hump handguard. early parts had case color, niter blue and
    bluing. The installation of the rear sight will leave holes in the receiver too, just not a good example to restore.

  12. #9
    Legacy Member Longrun4ever's Avatar
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    Thread Starter

    Estimated value

    To all that responded, Thanks.
    I don't have any sentimental connections to it, I don't believe it is safe to shoot (I could be wrong) from what I've read about early models, so is there any value to it as it is since it is a 1905 receiver and 1910 barrel in a 60+ year old sporter stock?
    Can anyone give me rough guestimate of what it could sell for?
    Again, appreciate all and your time.

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