As I get closer to rebarreling my 1903a3 I am wondering if anyone know how a short cartridge like the 223 would work in the long 1903 30-06 action. Im thinking of about 50 different options right now so im just eliminating options right now. The big three are keeping it 30-06, going 308,7.62x39 or 223. Im pretty sure a new follower would need to be made and the mag well modified (no problem), but how would the bolt work with a 223 size, resize? So basically is it worth it or not? Im only interested in the smaller cartridges for cost and noise. This would be on a strict bench platform, definitely not going for a hunting gun here (except maybe a coyote or two). Cost is a major concern but if im already getting a rebarrel......
223 in a long action
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rcmodel
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The .223 will not work at all in a 30-06 size action, except as a single-shot.
In addition to the bolt-face size & extractor being wrong, the magazine feed rails will not keep them in the magazine, or feed them.
Of the rounds you mentioned, a .308 would be a no-brainer with no mods necessary other then a magazine box block for the shorter round.
A 7.62x39 might work, although the head size is smaller and they might or might not feed without extensive receiver rail welding & re-shaping. And that isn't a no-brainer, even for a very experianced gunsmith.
See your other post for more info on what will work.
rc
In addition to the bolt-face size & extractor being wrong, the magazine feed rails will not keep them in the magazine, or feed them.
Of the rounds you mentioned, a .308 would be a no-brainer with no mods necessary other then a magazine box block for the shorter round.
A 7.62x39 might work, although the head size is smaller and they might or might not feed without extensive receiver rail welding & re-shaping. And that isn't a no-brainer, even for a very experianced gunsmith.
See your other post for more info on what will work.
rc
rcmodel
Member in memoriam
But see, the Savage action used the magazine box for the feed rails, so when they change calibers and put a different magazine box in the stock, it feeds.
The old rifles like the Springfield 03, Model 70 Win, Mauser 98, etc. had the feed rails ground & contoured right in the bottom of the steel receiver rails.
What size cartridge they are for is what they are for.
rc
The old rifles like the Springfield 03, Model 70 Win, Mauser 98, etc. had the feed rails ground & contoured right in the bottom of the steel receiver rails.
What size cartridge they are for is what they are for.
rc
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My point is to agree with you, the cost for him would be prohibitive. The fact that some of these rifle exist is likely since the 03 and mauser have been the basis for many custom guns over the years only in todays labor market of $80 per hr and up that kind of cost would be unrecoverable and wouldn't likely be any better than a quality stock gun.
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