03A3 for dummies?

[blue109]

i dont know anything about this rifle but i know a few of you have them. ive had a scope package up for sale and someone offered me a 03A3. i could be wrong but from his original message he doesnt seem to know much about it either. i asked some basic questions about condition and im waiting  for a response but can someone give me a quick basic brake down on these? whats good/bad/better? what to look for if i decide to take a look at it?

[Matt.Cross]

The simplest way I can describe it is that it is the American version of the Mauser, chambered for the .30-06 cartridge. If all the parts are original and are a serial match, it's worth a good bit. If it's a mix & match beater, has more than 2 lands & grooves in the barrel, is drilled & tapped for a scope, it's probably a mutt and not worth too much.

[blue109]

Guy responded. Said its a national ordinance. Dated may 44. in original configuration, great shape. Leather sling. Im reading that the NO guns seem to be the least desirable. I listed my scope setup around $500 but its worth more. Don't see the rifle being a good trade.

[planeflyer21]

Mine's a M1903 Remington, paid $550 for it.

 

The 03A3 has a few more stamped parts but upgraded click-adjustable peep sights on the receiver, moved back from on the barrel.

 

Tell him you want the rifle and $75 for your scope package.

[texas30cal]

Aren't there some early ones that are supposedly unsafe to fire? If I remember correctly something to do with receiver and or bolt material/heat treatment?

[planeflyer21]

Yup...I want to say those with serials lower than 300,000 but I'm not positive.

 

Mine is WELL above the poor heat treat number.

 

I like the ladder sight on it...some ambitious riflemen back then, lobbing .30-06 like artillery!

[blue109]

I took a pass. I'd rather upgrade what I have than add something new to the stable.

[Tripledeuce]

   Springfirlds 'o3's under serial 800,000 are potentially unsafe.  Rock Island with recievers under 290,000 are also un-safe.   Heat treating problems.

  National ordinance is a "new mfg"  from the 1980's.   Put together with mil surplus parts, except the recever, which is "new mfg".

  I wouldn't pay over 300$ for any Nat. Ord. made.    Even in  mint shape.

   Respectfully

    Terry

Edited August 27, 2013 by Tripledeuce