1903 a3 stock 4 digit stamps

[kicker]

Hi, i have two 1903 or A3 pinned stocks that have four digit numbers stamped on the right side of the rear stock and a two digit number stamped further up the stock. I assume these are the last four digits of the serial number and perhaps a rack number. I thought these were either arsenal stamps or v.f.w stamps, but i just read about Greek rifles that were returned like these. Anyone have an idea about these markings.

thanks scott

[John Beard]

If the stocks came from CMP Greek rifles, and your description indicates that they probably did, then the four digit numbers are the last four digits of the rifle serial number that the stocks were fitted to.

J.B.

[kicker]

I do know where these came from, so i'm guessing these run in line with the Greek returns. Do you recall any us kept rifles with these markings. These stocks need a total overhaul and i'm trying to figure out if i should try to get rid of these numbers or not. If they are Greek history then have little interest in them, it they are of us origins then i will preserve them.
thanks scott

[John Beard]

If the numbers are Greek numbers, then I recommend that you leave them alone. Greek numbers were stamped rather deeply and to remove them without leaving a trace would grossly disfigure the stock. You must recognize that, even though the number itself may not be deeply stamped, the wood fibers are compressed beneath it and will still leave a discoloration in the wood. So you would end up leaving a deep gouge in the wood to remove the compressed fibers and any trace of the numbers. And on a side note, I do not believe that the numbers will seriously detract from the value of the stocks.

J.B.

[JOHN COOK]

[QUOTE][If the numbers are Greek numbers, then I recommend that you leave them alone. Greek numbers were stamped rather deeply and to remove them without leaving a trace would grossly disfigure the stock. You must recognize that, even though the number itself may not be deeply stamped, the wood fibers are compressed beneath it and will still leave a discoloration in the wood. So you would end up leaving a deep gouge in the wood to remove the compressed fibers and any trace of the numbers. And on a side note, I do not believe that the numbers will seriously detract from the value of the stocks.

J.B./QUOTE]

kicker, listen to the advice from John Beard. I have an 03:A3 and it has the numbers on the stock and had the numbers on top of the bolt handle. Like a fool (not knowing) I filed the numbers off the bolt. I wish I had left them alone, as it is part of the history of the weapon. Also please use caps when referring to the United States (US) instead of us. Makes it a little simpler to understand your msg....

john in SC

[Fred Pillot]

Yes, as John Cook says. The American Government LOANED these rifles to the Greeks to help fight the spread of Communism. So those numbers are part of the American history of these American rifles.

[kicker]

Thanks, i will leave the numbers as is.
scott