M1903A4 reproduction rifles?

[Mustang]

Yeah, I’m not expecting sub MOA. I’m not a sub MOA shooter. I like historical rifles and have been wanting a sniper version for a while.

I think sub MOA is doable with these rifles.

Years ago I glommed this sporterized 03-A4 at an estate auction. I've long had plans to restore it to military condition, but haven't accomplished it yet. The barrel is USGI, original length.





Not too long ago, I shot a near MOA group with Federal Powrshok 150 gr, which the rifle seemed to like. I made two scope adjustments (first hit was far right), adjusted the scope (fired two more, which impacted left of the first shot), made another adjustment and fired a five shot group.

This is about par for this rifle in its current sporter condition, with 150 gr Powrshok ammo. A number of shooters have told me that the rifle will probably shoot better with a full military stock, with the proper tip pressure on the barrel. Add a fine tuned handload to that and I think sub-moa is likely.

[Bhobbs]

From what I’ve read, people have gotten MOA and sub MOA groups. I would love to have a rifle capable of that but even an average rifle can outshoot me right now.

[Bhobbs]

https://www.gunbroker.com/item/947984480

I did see this rifle. If the price stays down, it might be a good foundation. The muzzle wear is at 3 though. Not sure how that would impact the potential of the rifle.

[Mustang]

https://www.gunbroker.com/item/947984480

I did see this rifle. If the price stays down, it might be a good foundation. The muzzle wear is at 3 though. Not sure how that would impact the potential of the rifle.

Hard to say how a 3 would shoot. Might shoot lights out, though.

There are advantages to starting out with a rifle in military condition. You don't have to go on a parts scavenger hunt for one. Some people do not think a military condition rifle should be modified though.

[Bhobbs]

From the description, it sounds like a rebuilt drill rifle. If it was original, I wouldn’t modify it.

[kendog4570]

It is. The weld and machining in the cutoff area of the receiver show it.

[Nardo1895]

Those of you who have or are building one; what did you do for a bolt? A4 bolts are scarce as hen's teeth. Are you modifying an A3 bolt? How complicated is that?

[Ronin6]

Those of you who have or are building one; what did you do for a bolt? A4 bolts are scarce as hen's teeth. Are you modifying an A3 bolt? How complicated is that?

You are probably better off buying one built up on gunbroker, parts are very difficult to find these days. When I built mine there were tons of NOS bolts, barrels, stocks, parts……..all original USGI. If your lucky you can find a sporter but even those are pricey today. Most shooter will not like the kick from these vintage rifles and sell them after a few rounds Even I use an USMC Shooting jacket when shooting these fire sticks.

[Mustang]

Those of you who have or are building one; what did you do for a bolt? A4 bolts are scarce as hen's teeth. Are you modifying an A3 bolt? How complicated is that?

It depends. If you buy a sporter, the bolt frequently has already been turned down for a scope. I bought this one a few years back...






On the other hand, USGI Bolt bodies are still commonly available. "Jim the Boltman" does a pretty good job of turning the bolt handle down for not too much dough.

https://www.jimrtheboltman.com/

[Bhobbs]

[Mustang]

If you have a girl that enjoys shooting an 03A3, hold on to her

[19K]

Kendog is correct the 1912 barrel on one he built for me is sub moa with 168 hornady hpbt in lapua brass at 100 yard range .love when 100 yard local range snipers with there 6.5 send it calibers go down range and see a 100 plus year old barrel and gun design is out shooting them,priceless Worked up a long range load for it pushing 185 bergers moving at a pretty good clip= shoulder bruiser.