Remington M1903 Originality

[Bill in Texas]

I have interest in the M1903 below having the correct 2-bolt, (no receiver ring cutout) no GG stock, and R-marked parts. The handguard is the modified, high-hump variety, as RtL has indicated on this forum is correct for ALL Remingtons. The RA barrel is dated 5-42. i believe the finish on all the parts is correct, but will need to get more pictures to show details.
On the negative side, it shows no sign of stock markings and has an ample layer of varnish applied, even brushed over onto some of the metal surfaces.

If I buy this particular rifle, the first thing I do will be to remove the varnish after separating the stock from the barrel'd receiver, then inspect and detail-clean all the metal components.
The seller is asking $1,200 for it. In this area, that seems like a fair-to-slightly-high price.
Any and all comments are welcome.

-Bill

1st or 2nd Type Roll Stamp?



Visible Machining Marks Typical of the Period



Does anyone have any tips on removing varnish from stock with minimal negative impact?

[lyman]

varnish looks like Tru Oil,

maybe try some lacquer thinner or similar and a course rag to get the gloss off?

does seem a bit high , with that funky tru oil finish,

[Johnny P]

For me the missing stock markings are a big hit. You can improve the stock by removing the glossy finish, but nothing to be done about the markings.

[Bill in Texas]

I completely agree. It's a real bummer to find an otherwise correct Remington M1903 from the same month (5/42) that the 03A3 was authorized to be produced.
Thanks to you both for the replies.