Correct Remington 1903A3 Cartouches?

[rcmkhm]

Ok, wanted to share another one with the group. This is a gorgeous straight stock on a Remington 1903-A3. The furniture is excellent condition and everything is all R marked. I've never seen these cartouches together before, however. Any thoughts on these will be appreciated.

[Rick the Librarian]

Something doesn't add up -- the markings on the left side of the stock, although correct for a late Remington M1903A3, look faked to me. The sub-inspection stamps in the 3rd picture did not appear on a late Remington M1903A3.

[Mike D]

FAKE, FAKE, AND MORE FAKE!

Mike

[emmagee1917]

And the square & P is from a rebuild facility which usually sands the stock , leaving little in the way of markings left ( look at the circled P ).
Chris

[rcmkhm]

I wouldn't agree that arsenals usually sand the stock. I know that some did and some simply left it alone if it was not in bad shape. I'm looking for a little education on the cartouches, though, so what indicates that they are fake? Thanks, Chip

[Rick the Librarian]

1. The FJA is too tall and the letter fonts are incorrect

2. Ditto on the RA

3. The sub-inspection symbols were not used on late M1903A3 stocks - they were used on early Remington M1903s. M1903A3s used geometric symbols (squares, circles, etc.) with numbers inside.

I do not have a late Remington M1903A3 stock, but I'm sure someone else has pictures they can post. Once you see one, you'll be able to tell.

[rcmkhm]

Thanks, Rick. They do seem tall. Another question, I've looked but I have not seen any FJA stamps with periods after the letters. Would that be correct for any FJA stamps or is that a dead giveaway. Also, of all the stamps, I was originally suspect of the Ordnance Escutcheon. It just seems too neat and detailed. What are your thoughts on it?

[ebeeby]

Here's what a 4.173M , 12/43 barrel dated 1903A3 looks like:

[rcmkhm]

Good photos, thanks. The Ordnance Wheel on the one I posted doesn't look right either, does it?

[chuckindenver]

late A3 markings..