The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - US Remington model 03-a3

James K · August 14, 2005, 03:30 PM

The Model 1903A3 was a modification of the Model 1903 rifle, commonly called "the Springfield". The changes were effected to make the rifle easier and cheaper to produce. The change of rear sight also made the rifle more compatible with the M1 rifle (the Garand) for training and combat use.

They were made by both Remington and Smith Corona. A total of 1,020,675 were made, all but 236,831 by Remington. Production began in December 1942, running concurrently for a while with the Model 1903 which Remington was also making. Yours was made in early 1943; maybe someone can come up with a closer date.

Many M1903A3 rifles saw service, but towards the end of the war, M1 rifles were available in sufficient quantity that new M1903A3's went from the factory into storage. After the war, many were sent to U.S. allies or sold to NRA members under the Director of Civilian Marksmanship program. Some received by NRA members were brand new, and unfired except for proof testing.

The new Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP - www.odcmp.com) is selling currently selling some for $400.

Value on the current market for an original (not rebuilt) one in top condition is around $800.

August 14, 2005, 03:30 PM	#2
James K Member In Memoriam Join Date: March 17, 1999 Posts: 24,383	The Model 1903A3 was a modification of the Model 1903 rifle, commonly called "the Springfield". The changes were effected to make the rifle easier and cheaper to produce. The change of rear sight also made the rifle more compatible with the M1 rifle (the Garand) for training and combat use. They were made by both Remington and Smith Corona. A total of 1,020,675 were made, all but 236,831 by Remington. Production began in December 1942, running concurrently for a while with the Model 1903 which Remington was also making. Yours was made in early 1943; maybe someone can come up with a closer date. Many M1903A3 rifles saw service, but towards the end of the war, M1 rifles were available in sufficient quantity that new M1903A3's went from the factory into storage. After the war, many were sent to U.S. allies or sold to NRA members under the Director of Civilian Marksmanship program. Some received by NRA members were brand new, and unfired except for proof testing. The new Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP - www.odcmp.com) is selling currently selling some for $400. Value on the current market for an original (not rebuilt) one in top condition is around $800.