I've been apprehensive to reply to my own post...
First, I didn't appreciate getting flamed for having my grand dad's war momento in a sporterized state. In fact, he did the stock cut more than 40 years ago. There was a split in the stock, so I modified it just a bit more and refinished it. It is sanded with 2000gt paper then buffed with fine steel wool. Each layer of Linseed oil is also buffed with fine steel wool. Then I added the scope mount. Glass bedded it. And some years ago I installed the Timney trigger.
From Sunray:
"...
hasn't been buba'ized..." Yes it has.
"...not a tack driver..." Pity. The guy spent all that money too. I'd work up a load and see what it'll do. "
Well, Sunray, until now I've respected many of your posts, as being a source of knowledge here on THR. Tell ya what, Stay up in Canada. You don't have my respect down in the states.. As for spending money. Nope, Not on the rifle. It was handed down to me. I've only spent nominal funds on the scope, mount and trigger. To correct one thing, It has an S&K mount. I have worked up some good hunting loads, and while I don't feel it's a tack driver, it's quite accurate enough for hunting deer and bear. -Or what ever else I want to aim at. 2.5" groups at 200yds from a bench on a good day. I've been reloading for this rifle for more than 25 years. I think I know what it'll do.
From GEWEHR:
"
then the front handguard has been, too. Otherwise it would look darned goofy with wood on top all the way to the bayonet lug area near the muzzle and none underneath.
Without some tricks fabricated by a custom gunsmith, there are no detachable mag conversions out there
"I'd suggest selling that 1903A3' 'then take the money and buy a commercial Remington 700 DBM variant or similar if that detachable box mag means so much.'
"
How dare you ever suggest that someone sell a family herloom!!! Look at the photo below. I don't think it looks all that goofy. Sorta like a scout rifle? As for a detachable mag. It's a want. Maybe it's not available for the 03-A3. But the Mauser has an option from Numrich Gun Parts. A friend is building a custom Mauser in .358 Norma, and he's very interested in a detachable magazine.
http://cgi.ebay.com/Mauser-98-Long-Action-3-Round-Detachable-Magazine_W0QQitemZ320044592757QQihZ011QQcategoryZ73953QQcmdZViewItem
If something like a different floor plate/trigger guard that accepts a detachable magazine like this can be made for a Mauser, then I had hope that there was an option for a Springfield. Numrich says no.
I would even be interested in a hinged floor plate for the 03-A3. It is one of my primary hunting rifles. No matter what it's Military herritage. Grand dad and my uncles hunted with this rifle for many years after the war. I know it's taken Bear, Deer and Elk before me. I've taken Bear and Deer with it.
Other responses mention stipper clips. Not an option with a scope installed. -Please read and comprehend the initial post.
Now, why do I want one? Gee, It's easier to load and unload when hunting. Duh... It's just a convenience feature. One I asked about that doesn't require machine work to the rifle. My rifle is still completely restorable to it's original design. At this point I don't choose to do that. -All I need is two pieces of original wood. I surely won't be buying a Remington. Maybe a Browning, A Ruger No.1 or a TC is in my future.
Remember folks, when someone asks a question about a part or feature, Often, readers and writers here on THR value the technical experience of other members. And that's what we're looking for. You might want to keep your opinions to yourself though.
Moderators, please close this thread. I've said my piece in response. I don't expect this to continue. Those offended can PM me if they so desire.
-Steve
