correct bolt?

[tom hargrove]

I need one of the experts on the forum to help me out. I have a 1903 barrel and action, serial # 79,xxx with the barrel dated 1915. I would like to find a correct bolt for it. How would it be marked? It will not be a shooter at all, but I would like to have it look correct, as it's going to hang on the wall in my reloading room. I also need info on a stock for it. Any help will be welcome.

[Rick the Librarian]

Since it has a replacement barrel dated 1915, just about any bolt for a M1903 1915 and earlier would do. All would have "straight" handles.

Check this link for further details - scroll down to the bolt usage charts:

http://www.vishooter.net/m1903.html

[IditarodJoe]

If my information is correct, the original stock would have been a straight-type, grasping groove stock with a single crossbolt located below the bolt handle. A 1915 Springfield Armory stock would have had an acceptance cartouche on the left side of the wrist with "J.S.A." (or maybe "J.F.C."?) outlined in a box with rounded corners. I've been looking for a "single bolt" stock for my 1910-manufactured RIA project for several years now and have seen exactly zero. I'm quite certain that, when one eventually does show up, I won't be able to afford it. (I'm also looking for a Fall 1910-dates RIA barrel if anyone here has a spare kicking around! :icon_rolleyes:)

ETA: OOPS! Sorry. For some reason, the "1915" date lodged in my addled brain. I just looked again at the serial number and realized you're talking about a pre-1905 rifle. Your chances of finding a correct stock just dropped considerably, but if you want to learn a lot more about the 1903 rifles of that period, I can't recommend the following book highly enough: "Springfield Model 1903 Service Rifle Production and Alteration 1905-1910" by C. S. Ferris and John Beard. My copy listed for $12.50.

[Rick the Librarian]

I would also highly recommend the book by Ferris and (our own) John Beard. Unfortunately, copies are getting very scarce and dear in price. I refer to mine all the time.

[tom hargrove]

Thanks for both the replies. I just got into 1903's a little more, and will be looking for both those books. The old action has been poorly refinished, and drilled for a lyman 48, so it doesn't have to be perfect. I have a couple of straight bolts, so I guess I will just use one of those. From what you tell me, the stock will be tougher, and like you, I probably won't be able to afford it. Oh well, it will just have to look a little less neat than I had hoped. Thanks again. Tom

[IditarodJoe]

Tom - just sent you a PM

[Randy A]

I have an "S" bolt, will need re-finished though.

[chuckindenver]

i likely have the correct bolt...maybe a couple. lol
think i have a C8 and a C7

[JimF]

. . . . think i have a C8 and a C7

Chuck . . . .

I bet that C8 is a double-heat-treated bolt. --Jim

[chuckindenver]

i need to clear out some of my early bolts...ill dig through and offer them here first.

[Randy A]

Lemme know if you've got a straight handled J5, or a C8? Not sure which one would be right for SA 843200.