134. U.S. Model 1903 Rifle by Springfield Armory

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serial #144377, 30-06, 24" barrel with a fine, bright bore that has a small amount of pitting within the grooves. This rifle has an 05 dated, S.A. barrel that retains 97-98% of an expertly added dark blue finish with some very minor silvering around the front sight base and muzzle as well as a few very small peen marks through the bluing on the right side of the rear sight base. The receiver and straight handled bolt have 95-97% of an added water quenched color case-hardened finish which is faded slightly along some of the bearing surfaces and on the handle. The stock has an excellent, lightly hued varnish finish with very minor handling blemishes, a crisp "(circle)P" proof at the wrist, and a crisp "V(I or J)SA/1899" cartouche on the left side. There is a single stable stress crack on the top of the wrist running back from the tang for about 1 1/2" and the handguard (without sight groove) matches the stock exactly. An original 1903 dated Rock Island Arsenal leather sling in fine condition is included (missing its lower section). This is a beautifully refurbished rifle and would certainly augment any collection. (3017-12) {C&R} (1500/2500) SOLD FOR $2300.00