WWII US Remington M1903 .30-06 Bolt Action Rifle 24” Barrel, 1942 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,525.00
LSB#: WY240905SP059
Make: Remington Arms Co.
Model: 1903
Serial Number: 3153666
Year of Manufacture: 1942 (https://www.nps.gov/spar/learn/historyculture/u-s-springfield-model-1903-production.htm)
Barrel Date: June, 1942
Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
Action Type: Bolt Action, 5 Round Internal Magazine
Markings: The top of the receiver is marked “U.S. / REMINGTON / ARMORY / MODEL 1903 / 3153666”. The top of the barrel is marked “R A / flaming bomb / 6 – 42” . The safety is marked “SAFE READY” and the magazine cutoff is marked “ON OFF”. The stock has a “P” proof under the wrist and a faint “SA G.A.W. on the left side. There are several small “R” proofs throughout. The bayonet is marked, “US M7” on the scabbard, and “U.F.H. U.S. / X5740” on the blade and guard.
Barrel Length: Approximately 24 Inches
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a pinned blade atop a raised base with a sight protector. The rear sight is an adjustable flip-up V-notch ladder sight marked out to 27.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a two piece wood set with a capped forend/bayonet lug & stacking ring, barrel band w/ sling loop, two through bolts, semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling loop, and steel buttplate. There are scratches pressure dents and small chips. There are large cracks in the top handguard piece. The LOP measures 12 3/4 inches from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Fair overall condition due to the cracks.
Type of Finish: Parkerized, Blued
Finish Originality: Original.
Bore Condition: The bore is very bright, the rifling is sharp. There is little to no erosion and no pitting in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at a 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 94% of its metal finish. There are scratches, nicks and rub marks throughout. The bottom metal has impact marks. The action has light wear. The screw heads are light to moderately tooled. The markings are well defined. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine Plus condition. The bayonet is in Very 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.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Bayonet, cotton sling.
Our Assessment: The U.S. Remington 1903 is a bolt-action rifle that served as a standard infantry weapon for the United States military during the early to mid-20th century. It is part of the broader family of M1903 rifles, originally designed by the Springfield Armory and based on the Mauser design. The Remington 1903 variant was produced during World War II when the demand for rifles exceeded the capacity of the Springfield Armory, leading to additional production by Remington Arms. The rifle is chambered in the .30-06 Springfield cartridge, a powerful and versatile round suitable for a wide range of military applications. The Remington 1903 retained many of the key features of the original M1903 design, including its strong and reliable bolt-action mechanism. The bolt system features dual front locking lugs and a third safety lug, providing a secure lock-up and smooth operation. The rifle also includes a unique two-stage military trigger, known for its crisp and predictable break. One of the distinguishing features of the Remington 1903 is the use of more simplified manufacturing techniques to speed up production and reduce costs. This includes the use of some stamped parts instead of the milled components found in earlier versions, which did not compromise the rifle’s overall quality and reliability. During World War II, the Remington 1903 saw extensive use by U.S. forces, particularly in the early years of the conflict before the widespread adoption of the M1 Garand. It was valued for its accuracy and durability, making it a preferred weapon for many infantrymen and sharpshooters. The rifle was also used by the U.S. Marine Corps and in various training roles. The Remington 1903 continued to be used in different capacities throughout the war and remained in service in various forms afterward, including as a sniper rifle platform with telescopic sights.
Today, the U.S. Remington 1903 is a highly regarded collector’s item and a popular choice among shooting enthusiasts. Its historical significance, combined with its excellent craftsmanship and performance, makes it a valuable addition to any firearm collection. The Remington 1903 stands as a testament to the ingenuity and adaptability of American firearms design during a critical period in history. -R.E.
