Doco Overboard
Ultimate Member
I'm with Smoke Eater on this one, all the more reason to take your time and find a nice one. For a shooter look for bore and muzzle condition first, then make sure you have a stable stock platform with an issue or field replacement stock of any variety that is up to the task for the rigors you will subject it to. (I would avoid aftermarket stocks because you cannot tell how well they have been fitted but nothing inherently wrong with them if done right but they are soft) Then make sure the sighting arrangement is solid and in good working order without a beat up rear sight collar that is not bent from accommodating a poorly fit rear sight at the rear post. Look at bolt fitting and make sure there is at least a .004 gap at the bolt safety lug and rear bridge on a 03 bolt and there is no sign of peening at the left bolt lug and extractor slot and there is milled bottom metal with a smooth feeding follower, although this is not a necessity but its what you are paying for. All milled parts and a DHT 1903 bolt. Just look for one that has a swept back handle, a scalloped third safety lug and milled extractor key with no additional undercutting or milling around the third lug and you'll be set. I wouldn't be overly concerned with HS issues with any arsenal fit replacement barrel but make sure the index is not off and the sights are square. Stock marks, rack numbers and handgaurd profiles will add up to a more pleasing purchase over time and may come in handy for other rifles you will acquire. 03A3'a are more abundant and can be found in better shape usually but they are not as well fit as the earlier rifles but perform as well or better.
