U.S. Remington 03-A3/03-A4 1903 .30-06 24” Bolt Sniper Rifle 1943 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,152.00
LSB#: WY241031KE007
Make: Remington
Model: 03-A4
Serial Number: 3426482
Year of Manufacture: 1943 (https://www.nps.gov/spar/learn/historyculture/u-s-springfield-model-1903-production.htm)
Caliber: .30-06
Action Type: Bolt action, internal 5 round magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked, “U.S. REMINGTON / MODEL 03-A3 / 3426482” The mag disconnect is marked, “ON / OFF” The barrel is marked, “R. A. / 9 43” with a flaming bomb proof. The safety is marked “READY / SAFE” The stock is marked, “FJA” with an ordnance cartouche. There are several proofs on the underside of the stock. The bolt has a “R” and “S” in a circle proof.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: There are no iron sights. The top of the receiver is cut and tapped for a scope mount.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The two piece walnut stock has a steel cap w/ bayonet lug, barrel band, two action through bolts, cut for bolt handle, straight wrist, straight comb, with a knurled steel buttplate. The stock has been refinished. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There is a crack at the heel and a crack at the top handguard. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in at about Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued/Parkerized.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is worn in spots. There is moderate erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, this bore rates 5/10.
Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950s.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 30% of its metal finish. There is moderate patina and light pitting throughout. There are spots of rust, scratches, and nicks throughout. The bottom metal is coated in rust. The action has moderate wear. The screw heads are mostly sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. The bolt is incorrect for an 03A4.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The U.S. Remington 03-A3/03-A4 is a highly respected bolt-action rifle chambered in .30-06 Springfield, embodying the craftsmanship and reliability that made the 1903 series a cornerstone of American military arms. Produced during World War II, the 03-A3 was a simplified version of the original 1903 Springfield, designed for faster and more cost-effective production while maintaining the accuracy and dependability needed for service. The 03-A4, its sniper variant, added specialized features for precision shooting, making it a key tool for sharpshooters during the conflict. The .30-06 Springfield cartridge is a proven performer, offering excellent power, range, and accuracy, making it effective for everything from infantry engagements to long-range precision fire. The 24-inch barrel on this rifle ensures consistent velocity and accuracy, while the bolt-action mechanism, derived from the Mauser design, provides smooth and reliable operation. The rifle’s robust construction and simplified design elements, such as stamped parts on the 03-A3, ensured it could withstand the rigors of combat and the demands of mass production during wartime.
For collectors and enthusiasts, the U.S. Remington 03-A3/03-A4 represents a significant piece of American military history. Its role as a mainstay rifle during World War II, combined with its reputation for accuracy and durability, makes it a prized addition to any collection. Whether configured as a standard infantry rifle or as the sniper-specific 03-A4, this firearm exemplifies the balance of practicality and precision that defined America’s small arms during the war. It remains a testament to the ingenuity and industrial capability of the United States during one of the most pivotal periods in modern history. -R.E.
