remington 1903 springfield serial numbers

Just a bit of trivia - the Marines in Europe carried mostly Springfields, while the Army troops had theirs taken away and were mostly issued the M1917 U.S.

Or just keep it as-is for the sentimental value. The trigger guard will set you back for under $100, because although the stamped guard fits, a milled guard belongs on the rifle. I think all you need to do is pick up a WW2 era stock and 1903 handguard set, buttplate and screws, and both bands and swivels. Those are a BEAR to find, and very pricey. You are very fortunate that the rear sight and it's base have been left intact. The good news is that you have a rifle that can be very easily returned to look as-issued. I am sure that he carried one just like it, because the Springfields and Rock Island 1903s look just like the later Remingtons. The not-so-good news I think that your grandfather mis-spoke about that particular rifle being the one he carried. A lot of good write-ups on the internet are easy to find. That would be - as I recall - any rifle dated in mid 1917 thru Nov 1918.

They are not as pricey as a high-number Springfield or Rock Island WW1 rifle. If in really good shape, maybe as high as $550 to $600. Without pictures, and assuming that the receiver has not been altered or 'tapped' for scope mounts, and the stock in good shape I'd expect to see it at a gun show for $300 to $450. All that I've ever seen were parkerized, and the finish is very good on all examples I've seen.

The Remington rifles were produced with a very good nickel steel bolt. The stock for your rifle would be correct if it lacked the 'finger grooves' of the earlier WW1 rifles, and are much less expensive and easier to locate than the older stocks, but you can expect to pay in excess of $150 for a good used one. I believe they received tooling from Springfield, and even some very old tooling from the closed Rock Island Armory. Remington was awarded the contract to continue production of the 1903 rifle after Springfield tooled up to produce the M1 Garand. Only Springfield and Rock Island Arsenal made the 1903s prior to WW1. Jim K is right - again - this is a WW2 era rifle.

Remington 1903 springfield serial numbers