Springfield Mod 1903

[Seth8541]

A buddy of mine just purchased a Springfield Mod 1903 .30-06. He didnt know what it was when he purchased it so he brought it over to me. Once I took the scope base off it revealed what it was. I did some research on it and found out that it was manufactured in 1920, which means that they had already begun a different heat treatment of the reciever and it is safe to shoot. It did not come with the original barrel or stock so its not worth very much. He got it for $350.00. He wants to turn it into a Long range gun. Action in this gun works flawlessly. Does anyone have any experience with this gun, and if so, where would I go about buying parts (ie Stock) for this. Like I said, doesnt need original stuff for it. Looking for stocks from McMillan etc. Thanks for the help guys.

Seth

 

[Metalhead0483]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

I've seen and used some truly amazing custom hunting rifles based on 1903 actions, but IMHO there are much better options for a long range build. The lock time is really slow in a 1903, or any mauser action for that matter, and the aftermarket parts support just isn't there like it would be for a build based on a modern action.

*ETA* That's not so say your buddy couldn't do it. All I'm saying is there are better options out there.

 

[Nortex]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Metalhead0483</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've seen and used some truly amazing custom hunting rifles based on 1903 actions, but IMHO there are much better options for a long range build. The lock time is really slow in a 1903, or any mauser action for that matter, and the aftermarket parts support just isn't there like it would be for a build based on a modern action.

*ETA* That's not so say your buddy couldn't do it. All I'm saying is there are better options out there. </div></div>

I agree I have an old .22-250 built off a 03A3 action, it was my grandfathers has a custom stock and was built long ago enough the RCBS die box is labeled .22 var.

 

[Seth8541]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

Im aware of the better options also, but hes new to this and doesnt have a ton of $$$. Like I said he got the whole setup for $350 and didnt really even know what he was buying. The guy selling the gun told him it was a Rem 700. HEHEH. Figured he could work with what he's got. I figure he could have a gunsmith work it over, maybe throw a decent bedded stock on it, a barrel, and a scope and start workin up some loads. So far the only stock Ive found is a Bell & Carlson synthetic. Nothing wrong with that though.

 

[k20350]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

I have an '03 that drives nails w/ a Mcgowan Barrel built probably 40-50 years ago. Smooth as silk. I thought about building a long range varminter and took it to a well known smith. He looked at me like I was insane. He said all he would guarantee was 1.5 MOA. I don't know,the '06 barrel stacks them on top of each other all day. I guess Iwill just keep mine a cool old sporter. Tell him to resell the Springfield and buya Savage. I love my springfield but it's just plain easier to build a Savage. I have 10fp now thats my switch barrel.

 

[kraigWY]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

I'm going to go against the norm here. The '03s have been made into some outstanding and accuate shooters. They've been used in High Power, Palma and ISU 300 Meter (free rifle) shooting with excellant results.

If one can find "The Book of the Springfield" By Captain Edward C Crossman or "MIlitary and Sporting Rifle Shooting" by the same author, you'll find that these rifles have indeed been converted to some great target rifles.

I would like to see it turned back into the orgianl 'as issued state" which can be done, but it's not my rifle or my choice.

But don't sell the '03 action short.

 

[diriel]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

Seth,

You will find that far too many people will tell you that the 03 just wont get it done. "Far better options", "Far too risky", "Lock time too slow"... I have an old 03 that I bought in badly butchered condition with original 2 stage trigger still intact and peep sights on it. Stock is so far beyond horribly gagged up that it is sickening, dang thing has like 12.5" LOP. I loaded some "youth loads" up for it and took it out to try to teach my wife to shoot. She has since adopted the 03, and has forbidden me to mess with it

IF you do find a smith who will work on it, be prepared to get utterly butt raped

Also, did you say it has a scope? The 03 bolt handle comes "pre bent", kinda sorta...but you can not Just put a scope on one. The bold handle will hit the scope. You can get an offset scope, or have the bolt handle cut off and re-done. Sounds like this one has already had quite a bit of work done to it.

Tell ya what, for being such an insufferable piece of junk that no smith will even consider touching, mine shoots DAMN GOOD!! Not only with those youth loads that Hodgdons lists, but with full power loads too. As far as i'm concerned, the 03 has just about the smoothest action I have played with. Ive heard there are smoother out there, but I have yet to personally encounter one that is BETTER....as good maybe

Good luck with that 03,
Gary

 

[Seth8541]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

Diriel,
Thanks for the info. Yeah its got a scope on it real high dollar piece of glass.....tasco I believe.hehe. If anything he got a real good piece of glass outa the deal right. The action like I said before is smooth. Ive also seen spring upgrades to better the lock time. What kindas ranges and groups you getting out of yours? And like I said before, hes never been into shooting LR or for that matter shooting any range, and he probably wouldnt be trying to get into it if this deal hadnt fallen into his lap. I for one am not gonna tell the guy not to get his hopes up and that his rifle isnt any good. He got a rifle and hes excited to see how it shoots. So its all about working with what you got right. Hell MArines have been doin pretty well at that for almost 300 years.haha.

 

[Seth8541]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

Hell I shoot a $300 Rem 700 BDL VS .308 bone stock with a $300 SS10X42 on it and it hammers at 1000 yds. Shot a 3.30" 3 round group a 900 yards with it last week. Who am I to tell the guy it aint worth even trying.

 

[HOGGHEAD]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

I am not trying to be a smartie pants. But why don't you recommend to him to buy some ammo and go out and shoot what he has right now. If he is a beginner then his money would be better spent on practicing with what he has right now. And not worry about making it into something different. I have shot alot of the old 03's. Very few of them needed very much to shoot just the way they are. Don't sell the old girl short. Tom.

 

[Seth8541]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

Hes already purchased the ammo and hes goin out to shoot monday. Hes not interested it selling the rifle, but he is interested in fixing her up a bit. Its got a Wood thumbhole stock on it right now, and the barrel isnt floated. I dont think he cares for it much. So he was asking me about a synthetic for it. The only one Ive seen is from B&C.

 

[Action Guy]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

I've got a Springfield project in the works, not looking to save money,though. ER SHaw did the barrel and bolt handle work. We turned it into a .280 AI. I've got an aftermarket Winchester style three position safety on it and a beatiful piece of black walnut being fitted for a stock. It will not be a "tactical rig" for sure, but it should shoot really well at long distance. Prong horns, deer, coyotes, whatever. It'll be a joy to own. Not done yet, but soon.

 

[Seth8541]

Re: Springfield Mod 1903

Sounds like a nice rig in the works. Make sure you post the pics when its done. Id like to see how it tuens out.Good luck.