Model 1903 Serial No. 215787

[Mark Daiute]

Sometime in the next couple of months I expect to be picking up this rifle. It has a 1918 Avis barrel, the stock is fairly nice. The receiver has lost all bluing/finish, this does not bother me.

This rifle would have been born as a 30-03 rifle. I'm Happy with the 1918 Avis barrel.

I believe it was made in June of 1905. Should I be checking the stock for evidence of the Ramrod Bayonet? Wasn't production halted in June of 1905?

Where was the 1903 rifle in it's evolution in 1905?

Best,

Mark

[Fred]

Is the stock an early one with the early edges along the top sides of the receiver? How many stock bolts does it have?

[Mark Daiute]

will let you know when I have it in hand IIRC, one bolt but like I say will respond in detail when I have it in hand.

[Rick the Librarian]

If it has a 1918 barrel, it was overhauled either after WWI or later. Chances are it has a later stock and parts, as well. When you get the rifle or have another chance to look at it in detail, take some good pictures and post them.

[Mark Daiute]

If it has a 1918 barrel, it was overhauled either after WWI or later. Chances are it has a later stock and parts, as well. When you get the rifle or have another chance to look at it in detail, take some good pictures and post them.

Thanks for responding. When I get it will definitely post pictures. I will say that the finish and appearance of the stock reminds me of my Krags. It looks like its from the same era. subjective I know, but the fit and finish, the texture, is similar to my Krags. The bore is perfect. I know that the early serial numbers may not be safe but after proofing it in a tire I will likely shoot cast bullets with it using light loads.

[Rick the Librarian]

I'm assuming it is a grasping groove stock, correct? Look also for any inspection stamps.

[Mark Daiute]

Thee was a cartouche/remains of a cartouche on the left side of the wrist, hard to make out. Now I'm eager to get my hands on it. gotta pay some bills then I can finish making payments on it.

[Mark Daiute]

Assessment and critique welcomed. I watched this rifle for 3 years and no one bought it. I liked it from day one. Finally I was able to buy it. With taxes it came to 700.00. Actual purchase price was 675.00. Probably high, I know, especially for a low serial numbered 03, but I'm ok with that. Seller was not coming down and allowed me to make payments over a long time.

[Mark Daiute]

more of same

[Mark Daiute]

[madsenshooter]

Low numbered, but I'd shoot it, just like you're planning to do. I'd start with new brass and keep track of the number of loadings. Once fire formed to the chamber I'd only neck size the cases.

[Mark Daiute]

I shot it within 6 hours of getting it but from here on out it will most likely be a cast boolit shooter.

[Rick the Librarian]

The stock looks like a possible pre-1913 RIA - looks like a "ghost" of a CN stamp on the left side. Does it have a large S on the foretip of the stock.

[Mark Daiute]

[Rick the Librarian]

Yep, the stock dates to 1913 or earlier and was originally mounted on a RIA M1903.