Remington 1903

[Blackhawkdc]

Hey all, thought I'd share this with folks and maybe get some help/guidance on it. I just purchased a Model 1903 rifle built by Remington. Its been sporterized and not a very pretty job either. Needs some clean up and a few minor stock repairs/mods. I'm looking for any and all information I can get on the rifle. The receiver is stamped US Remington - Model 1903 - serial number 31255XX. There is an A15 stamped on the top of the barrel, about half way. Also, under the bolt handle, there is stamped R10. I could see where a few other stampings were on the barrel, but unfortunately, I can't make them out. My best guess is that this rifle was built by Remington (obviously) in about May of 1942. Any other info people can give me on this rifle? Also, I'm in need of a rear sight for it, what is my best option?

Here is my plan for the rifle. I plan on it being a winter project. I have played with firearm restoration in the past, really casually. My plans include sanding and smoothing the reciever and barrel down and blueing them, hopefully to a really deep, almost black blueing. The stock needs some repairs. Just to the front of the bolt, there is a knot with a finger of wood about to fall off. I'll need to reattach that. I also need to clearance the stock better for the bolt handle. Get it so it rests metal to metal instead of metal on wood. I also plan on completely sanding the stock down, removing the old finish, and completely refinish it. I plan on trying my hand at checkering as well on the forearm and the wrist behind the receiver. Maybe some wrap around checking, wrapping from one side to the other behind the receiver.

Here are a few pictures:






As you can see, the stock is poorly done, but is actually a nice piece of walnut with some nice character in it. Think it'll make a good project? I'll keep everyone posted as to my progress.

Thanks for looking all!

Seth Petro

 

[nicholst55]

It's a shame that the rifle wasn't left in original configuration. I'm told that the early Remington 1903s rival the pre-WWI Springfield rifles in workmanship and quality.

The stock looks like a decent chunk of wood. A little epoxy should reattach the area by the bolt handle. It looks like an interesting project. What's the bore like?

 

[Jim Watson]

Install a receiver ("peep") sight and that busted piece of stock will be removed to inlet for it anyhow.

I would look for a new bolt and hope it headspaced ok, that is about the second ugliest bolt handle I have ever seen. The cut-off striker knob makes it mildly dangerous and potentially unreliable anyhow.

 

[Blackhawkdc]

Thanks guys. I had been thinking about installing a peep sight on the rear of the receiver. And yes, I would like to eventually find a different bolt for it. I wish the rifle had been left in original, as-issued condition as well. But if it were, I would never have been able to afford it. I bought it at a good price because the guy's son couldn't handle the recoil for deer hunting and he needed to sell it to purchase a different rifle for his son. So hence I was able to pick it up for only $100. Now I just need to go to some gun shows and find a bolt and peep sight for it.

Thanks again.