Need help restoring an M1917

[GigaBuist]

I posted about this M1917 before looking to get some optics on it but didn't get any responses.

In further research I think it might be possible to actually get some irons back on this thing that resemble the originals. I can't find any sort of optic mount that would fit with the holes drilled in the receiver, and I'm honestly not sure what the original owner was doing with it any more.

So, here's a top-view of the receiver:

There are two screw holes in the rear and two in the front. I'm starting to think that the rear holes are the original mounts for the rear sight. Am I correct?

I'd like to get this rifle back into shooting condition. What I don't want to do is drop it off at a gunsmith and have them do anything to the receiver that might further damage its historic value. It's already been butchered, but I don't want to make matters any worse.

 

[GarandOwner]

If you dont allready have it, buy this:

http://www.amazon.com/British-Enfield-Rifles-Pattern-Model/dp/1882391292/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1211864277&sr=8-1

The "For Collectors Only" series of books are great for anyone trying to restore an old war rifle. While I do not have this exact book, I have one for the M1 Carbine and the 1903A3 from this series, it goes over every part in detail, tells what is "correct" for each rifle, and explains markings. If you are wanting to restore the rifle, you would be wise to get this book.

 

[Hoppy590]

hey, hows it going. iv got an M1917

the two forward holes (near the Eddystone part) are drilled and not original.

the rear ears have been ground off, along with the rear sights. your picture isnt clear enough for me to see if the original iron site mount is still there. but at first sightm its gone. honestly, im against "bubba" ing of any gun, but some one else did it, you tried to save her, but i dont know if you can

heres a photo of a M1917 original ears and rear site
'

 

[PTK]

My poor 1917 has Redfield peep sights on it, but otherwise is completely original. Still shoots circles around most other bolt guns.

 

[Slamfire]

You cannot restore the action to original military. To me, the rifle is worth only what the action would bring, and what the parts would bring.

However, that action is an excellent candidate for conversion into a sporter rifle. The M1917 is an excellent action, has a long magazine box, I in fact have a very nice 270 Sporter built around a M1917 action. (built in the 50's when these actions were cheap)

It is quite possible that someone found a set of weaver mounts and drilled the holes based on the weaver mounts they had on hand. Since hole spacing on weaver mounts varies by end application, you may have a lot of leg work to find the mounts that fit.

 

[GarandOwner]

Still shoots circles around most other bolt guns.

Does this mean it is more accurate, or does it actually shoot around other rifles groups?


... Only kidding