Straight handle bolt

[the_1st_sgt]

Just bought an 03A3 at my local gun store, a Remington 3.7 mil with 4-43 bbl. It is sporting a smooth body straight handle bolt. I looked over the bolt and could see no marking what-so-ever on the safety lug or bolt handle (both above and below). Unfortunately it has been parkerized. My question: could this possibly be a very early produced bolt and if so are there any distinguishing production traits between S.A and R.I.A. I don't get to pick the weapon up until the 17th (I live in SoCal). Thank you in advance

[John Beard]

Some of the very first straight handle SA bolts were unmarked. Almost all RIA bolts up until 1909 were unmarked. A few early RIA bolts were marked with a shallow-stamped "S" on the rear of the handle. I am not aware of any machining differences between early SA and RIA bolts.

J.B.

[the_1st_sgt]

Thank you Mr B. When I get it home I can use my magnifying glass to get a closer look