Smith Corona 1903A3 03-A3 .30-06 Bolt Action Military Rifle MFD 1943 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1450

LSB#: 210610DE08

Make: Smith Corona

Model: 1903A3 (03A3)

Serial Number: 4743824

Year of Manufacture: 1943 (page 375 of Joe Poyer’s book, The 1903 Springfield Rifle – 3rd Edition). Barrel Date: July, 1943

Caliber: .30-06 Springfield

Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine

Markings: The top of the receiver is marked “U.S. / SMITH-CORONA / MODEL 03-A3 / 4743824”. The top of the Smith Corona barrel is marked “S C / flaming bomb / 7 43”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “P”. The safety is marked “SAFE READY” and the magazine cutoff is marked “ON OFF”. The top of the bolt handle is marked “X”. The bottom is marked with a faded “number” and a punch. The left side of the stock, above the trigger, is marked “FJA in a box” next to a “crossed cannons” cartouche.  The bottom of the grip is marked with “circled P” proof. The wood in front of the magazine floor plate is marked with a few inspection stamps that consist of “boxed & circled numbers”. There are a few other small markings on the rifle. The sling is marked “MILSCO 1944”. The front sight cover is marked “flaming bomb / U.S.” and “R”. The muzzle cover is marked “U.S,” and “HAV. STCH. CO / 1944”.

Barrel Length: Approximately 24 Inches

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a pinned blade set atop a raised base and under a removable protective hood. The rear sight is a fully adjustable aperture sight marked from “2-8”.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The wood shows light scrapes, small scratches and compression marks. The LOP measures 13 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good Plus to Fine overall condition as refinished.

Type of Finish: Parkerized

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is deep. There is some fouling near the muzzle. There is no erosion. The bore shows an M.E. of 0.4.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. The barrel & trigger guard show scrapes. The metal shows scuffs, light handling marks and light discoloration. The screw heads show heavy use. The markings are deep. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good Plus to Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: A chamber brush and grease pot are stored in the butt. They are in about Very Good condition. A leather sling is attached. It shows scrapes & some discoloration. Overall it is in about Very Good Plus to Fine condition. The muzzle cover shows soiling and discoloration. It is in about Very Good condition.

Our Assessment: This Smith Corona 03A3 was made during WWII. The rifle has nice Smith Corona markings on the receiver & barrel as well as markings on the stock. These markings add to the rifle’s history. The metal finish & wood are in nice shape and the bore is strong & bright. This Smith Corona 1903A3 looks good and will add to your Military collection.