You're absolutely right. I had a dear friend who unfortunately succumbed to cancer who was a wonderful stock maker. He had the metal work done because he didn't have the machines. He carved a scene of a Whitetail deer jumping over a log. I owned hat stock after he passed. It was for a 1903 Springfield with a high serial number. He was an artist. I thoroughly am a now fan of your channel. You speak my language.
I have a sporterised 7x57 Mauser with an action dating from the 1930s. It was left to me by my father in law and I would not trade it for the world. It's beautiful. I also got 0.3 inch groups from it using my homeloads. Tradition, history, family connection and accuracy. Makes it a pleasure to hunt with. Thanks for another very enjoyable video. And you've done a great job on that rifle.
I’ve got a sporterized Remington 1903-A3 that I got at 14 as my first deer rifle. Over the years, I found and added an aftermarket hinged floor plate, a Leupold 3-9x40 scope, and a model 70 type 3 position safety. It is just a classic, timeless rifle.
Tom, you've done a fine rifle justice. You are totally right in that nothing has changed. We all appreciate beauty as proven by what will be paid for many of the old collectable cars. Craftsmanship has been replaced by expediency. Seemingly, what's cherished most today is speed rather than creativity. What you have to say in your posting is only overshadowed by the way you say it. I so enjoy your delivery, a treat to this old Brooklyn born bums ears. Thanks for all your work. By the way, that book you enjoyed so much is but a year older than me.
Tom, you have done an outstanding job on that rifle/stock. You have not destroyed the value of that rifle. In todays market, I dare say you could get a $6-700 with no optics. But, that one's a keeper for sure. Hope to see a hunting video with it this year. Again, outstanding work. Gorgeous wood.
I stumbled across your channel in an attempt to research staining and oil finishing a rifle stock. I bought a sporterised Lee Enfield mkIII chambered in .303/25 from a deceased estate several years ago. It sat in my safe relatively unused until about 2 months ago when I decided to begin building my Australian version of the reputed 1903 Springfield custom guns of years ago. My buttstock has identical pistol grip and comb additions to your Springfield. Thank you. I will now be watching all your videos on this particular rifle.
I am right on target with your way of thinking. I grew up in a time where these guns were staple of most hunters. I remember when men would work all summer to ready their rifles for the season and would show their work to others with pride and as a boy I would admire the hard work. Kmart and Yankee stores would sell old military rifles in barrels where you would pick out your best and get started.
Thoroughly enjoyed this series and all the other ones as well… the guns are amazing, the hard work and dedication is apparent, but for me listening to what your stories and taking in your experience is the best part. Looking forward to many more and can’t wait to see some hunting videos coming soon!
Now that was a great video because that is a great rifle. It very much reminds me of the stuff I saw growing up. Back when a file and rasp was what you needed to make a quality firearm. Before the era of five axis CNC machines where you just load it up and press a button. Back before plastic stocks. Im old, I spend a lot of time watching TH-cam at home, and its getting harder and harder to find something worth watching. Seems like these days all I can find is 6.5, or some new caliber mounted on a metal and plastic monstrosity stock. Your channel takes me back to the days I miss so very much, and your dedication to craftmanship and perfection show in the rifles you work on....I very much enjoy your channel and the rifles you have on it...another great video and another great rifle. Thanks and God Bless
Tom, 49 years ago I like you read about rifle building and did one myself. It was a 308 Norma Magnum on a 98 .Mauser action that I slightly modified all mounted on a Fagan double A stock glass bedded and free floated . Took it to Wyoming harvested a Antelope also a Pa. White Tail Deer. My own reloaded ammunition. Neighbors 308 Norma Magnum broke so I sold him mine. Lots of work all done by hand, just like you.
A lot of people don’t understand the satisfaction of reworking your gun yourself. Yes, the trained eye can find imperfections but that doesn’t matter. I refinished a Winchester Model 69A 22LR that my Great Grandfather gave me about 45years ago. I bedded the receiver, which was not easy, reblued the all the metal and free floated the barrel. It came out nice and shoots 1/2” groups at 50yds. I was really surprised at the accuracy. I would like to do some checkering but I’m afraid of messing up the wood. Yes doing that made it lose value, although it’s not worth a whole lot to start with, but it’s one I will not get rid of. I also had the receivere drilled and tapped and mounted a scope on it because I can’t see the iron sights very well anymore. That’s a beautiful job you did. Thanks for the video.
I just today walked into a pawnshop and brought home a "03A3". I came to youtube looking for more info and found this video. I came into the video with the opinion of " ew why did he sporter it." But i sat here and listened to you talk...one, because you sound like from where im from. Two, you were passionate about it. I respect the work you and the previous owner put into it, and it certainly has the silhouette of "Grand Paws Hunting Rifle" that so many people love.
Love the content. I have a sporterized 1903 with 2 groove rifling. My father was on a rifle team before I was born. He passed at a very young age and left it along with other fine rifles to me. Your video has inspired me to get this fine piece of history out into the field. Bless you sir...
I'm glad to hear that Ronald. These rifles are as fine as any ever made and it's good to hear you'll be taking your father's, and now yours, out into the field where it belongs.
I picked up a Rem 03-A3 sporteried. Barrel was 24" 2 groove made in Aug. 1944. It is set up with peep sights and with 150 fmjs it will shoot 1" groups all day long. 19gr of Trail Boss is a gem of a load to shoot. Great video. Thanks much
I like it. I got me a 1903 Springfield as well. Just an old sporterized 06 from the pawn shop like yours, nuthin fancy. When I chronographed it the original 2 groove barrel velocity was really low. So I had a local Gunsmith put an inexpensive new Numrich barrel on it, found an old Fajen stock and it feels and shoots great. She's a keeper. Brown rifles matter. :D
LOL. I'm guessing this one was rebarreled as well? The receiver is a 1942 a3 but the barrel is September 1943 and I was thinking they only made a4's in late 43.
Thanks Tom for the great video. What you were saying reminded me of my 7mm-08 that I put together. A sporterized Mauser 98 from 1904. Whom ever sporterized it had used the original stock and did a great job cutting in a pistol grip and making a Monte Carlo out of it. It had the original step down barrel and was in the original 8mm as well. What was unique was it had a double trigger on it. The front trigger is a set trigger and the back is a real light 1-2 pound trigger. I bought a barrel and a synthetic stock for it, took it to my uncle in TN who sporterized many Mauser actions before my time and I asked him to change it into the 7mm-08 it is now. The original stock that was on it was cracked in the pistol grip and he told me that the barrel was gone and beyond repair. He asked if he could have the stock knowing that he could fix it. I got that rifle from a pawn shop for $145.00. Of course I bought it for the action, but I made sure the craftsmanship of the stock went to a good home. I have yet to bed and free float it and I have some more metal work to do to it as well. It is has become a never ending project. Anyway, it looks like I turned that craftsmanship into a modern day ugly rifle. It's all about accuracy anyway, lol. Thanks and I appreciate the videos. You can see some of the Mausers that my uncle put together on my channel. One in 6MM Remington and another in 25-06. Thanks again.
Thanks for sharing that Cervus and I'll be sure to check those videos out. And I know exactly what you mean about never ending projects! But they are so nice when you get them close to finished. LOL
I just checked out your dove field and I'm going to have to go back and watch all of those videos. I wanted to plant one at my friends place but just didn't get it done soon enough.
@@TomRiverSimpleLiving Yeah we had a pretty good shoot this year on opening day. Unfortunately we only had 3 guns on the field but we retrieved 41 birds. I even got two with the the old .410 that I refinished. I took on the stock refinishing due to your 03-A3 stock finish video, LOL.
@@TomRiverSimpleLiving Yes Sir. Actually I have a video that I took last week with this Mauser and another one I did at the same time. It just takes some time getting them put together and posted on the page.
I'm darn proud 0f my 10/22. Old school, Richard's monte carlo walnut stock, 20 coats tung oil. Looks older than its 1980 manufacture. You do what you can afford.
A job you can truly be proud of! There are few pleasures as satisfying as hunting with a rifle that has so much of your soul in it. I am getting ready to start my fourth stock, made from a blank and mostly using hand tools.
THAT is a beautiful example of traditional craftsmanship. I think there is a shift occurring that is bringing back the appreciation of/for handcrafted firearms. My most beloved rifle (next to my first gun - Steven's model 24E Deluxe / .22-.410 O/U given to me by my dad in 1972 when I was 10..., I'm now 60) is a .25-.284 wildcat that I purchased in 1994 built on a Remington 722 action mated to a fiddleback stock with birds-eye maple forend/pistol grip. "The Wild One" is engraved in the floorplate of the fixed magazine. '66 is stamped into the heavy taper high gloss barrel making me think that's the year of build. My last curiosity is that in one of my "GUNSMITHS KINKS" books is a photo (B&W) of a man handling a rifle that looks just like it.....I wonder......
hi tom , i'm of a 1964 vintage and i have several rifles after a renewed interest in hunting / shooting and two of my rifles are the late model plastic stock variety with the rest being laminated and walnut stocks one being mod 70 featherweight FN ' just recently i vowed never to buy a plastic stock rifle again ' if i had my starting choice of rifles over again there would only be 5 rifles in my gun cabinet that would be the model70 in 6.5cm , Marlin Laminated stock 30-30 , Henry 22mag golden boy (all of which are in the cabinet already ) and add a Remington model 700 BDL in 30-06 , and a Browning X-bolt in .223 all timber . Love the show , cheers .
Man this really gave me inspiration. Ive been trying to decide on wether or not to buy a new rifle for this coming deer season or just work my old sporterized 03-A3 into what i need it to be. The chambering in .308 Norma Mag, makes ammo a pain to find… but maybe its worth it
Sweet. "Own built" mausers are awesome. Great job on your chequering. Fore-ends personally I go for a smooth narrowing very-slightly curving slope from the line of about an inch in front of front reciever bolt thru to the fore-end point with the end point around 3/4 inch height and with about a 70 deg reverse cut-back angle with the cut rounded nicely on the edges. Gives a really nice sleek look and gives just that slightly extra "agile/flickable" feel to the handling.. All good... Cheers from down-under in little ole NZ
You've done great work making a silk purse out of a sow's ear. I'd like to try hand checkering but I've always thought that I'd ruin it if I have to refinish the stock after some years. I had a German-built Mauser sporter (done by a gunsmith there, not an Oberndorf factory sporter) and it had many imperfections on the engraving in places and people either though it was the most beautiful gun they've ever seen or it was just some old hunting gun. Some people still can appreciate handmade work.
I used to own an '03-A3, in a glass-bedded military stock, with a Lyman 'peep sight'. I used it for hunting Mule deer, in Eastern Washington State. It was a GREAT big game rifle, using factory .30-'06, ( usually Remington's Core-Lokt ). A bit on the heavy side for toting through rough country, but no worse than the M-14 that I carried in Vietnam. And durable. Gave me yeoman service, until I could afford something scoped in the same caliber, and in a more weather resistant stock, so that I could also use it on the wet, Western, side of the state without the problem of swelling wood, due to moisture.
I have really enjoyed watching your progress on this 03A3. I am taking on a similar project with 1944 Smith Corona 03A3 sporterized I picked up for 399. I love the feel and handling of an 03 but I do not want another 30-06 so I am going to have a 280 AI tube installed. Seeing how well yours turned out tells me I for sure need to see this project through. Excellent job on that nice rifle.
What a beautiful tool. Makes me miss my father. Thank you for the reminder of where we come from, and god willing where we will go. Gorgeous rifle sir.
Tom, believe me... I hear you. Much has changed over time, but to recall the old French proverb: "The more we change, the more we stay the same". I'm thankful that folks like us recognize quality and craftsmanship. Think of how many of those wonderful old rifles end up destroyed by people who have no appreciation for them. Thanks for saving that old '03 from the scrap heap. Use it in good health!
Tom,another bargin rifled followed me. It should be an interesting restoration. It is a Post 64 Model 70 Winchester in 264 Win. Mag. Its all original with a Weaver V7 scope in a Redfield base/rings. Also had a very usable military sling. Local gun store had it for $199. New territory for me...Magnum belted case... Good luck on your next project.
William, if you have a bore scope I would check that bore and make sure it isn't shot out. The 264 was famous for being overbore and going through barrels. With that said, most people didn't put a lot of rounds though them so hopefully yours is going to be in great shape. And if it is in good shape then that was an outstanding find!
Beautiful job- most impressive. Way beyond what I'd ever take on. The rifles I have are some old wood Savage rifles and one Remington rifle which is the nicest looking wood and finish. They all shoot from 0.5 to 1.5 MOA depending on ammo. Perfect for sporting use and what I value and enjoy using. Enjoy seeing you have similar tastes as I do in rifles, right down to the Redfield Revolution scopes, which I also love.
I really enjoyed your videos on this gun. I just bought a JC Higgins model 50 in 30 06. Don't be fooled by JC Higgins it's a FN built Mauser sold to Sears it has a crome lined barrel it sat for over 2 yrs guy at the shop said. I snatched it up for 399.00. It's got beautiful finish on all metal parts..stock needs a refinish. But gonna be a beauty. Craftsmanship.
You did absolutely a fantastic job on that stock. I love the elegant fine details you added to the stock, I think the old masters would approve of your work, please add you name somewhere discreet so future sportsman will be able to identify the craftsman. As far as accuracy is concerned, realistically speaking , hunting involves many skills in addition to accurate shooting for the hunting you are doing. A woods hunter has a different skill set in comparison to a western plains hunter. Essentially most of us will be well served with a 4 moa rifle that handles and comes to the eye quickly. This rifle would be accurate enough to hit a 12 inch pie plate out to 300 yards, which most of us couldn't consistently do offhand at 300 yards. The skill of stalking is the answer to close the distance , for a more sure ethical shot at game. I'm sure I am only restating what many hunters feel is that hunting is far more than target shooting, and A hunters preffered rifle is unique to the sportsman. I love your videos and especially glad you express the sportsman's perspective that only those who travel forest and field in pursuit of game can understand. Sincerely and respectfully!
That looks fantastic. Good Job. Love what you said about sporterizing an original condition old military rifle. I have 2 old ones . My favorite rifle an 03-A4 sporterized in 1962 or so by my " frugal uncle" . Function over form. It's oddity is the trigger guard and magazine plate are milled not stamped . Good old parkerized finish. Barrel cut to 24" 2 groove with a 4x 1" Redfield tube. Biggest limiting factor shooting accuracy is the idiot pulling the trigger, me !
I'm working on a 1964 Winchester model 70 in 243 I picked up at cabelas in Kansas. It's came with a timney trigger, open sights and I really like it so far .
I really like the work you've done with that rifle. I put one together for my wife that is almost identical to it. She's very happy with it and so am I, but when it comes to accuracy, things are not the same. I've been shooting for groups with my rifles for close to 40 years, handloading for the last 30 years. Back when I was getting started, it was not common for a rifle to shoot under 1 MOA unless you were using a handload tailored to that rifle. These days, many factory rifles, shooting factory ammo, will shoot under 1 MOA. The reason for that is modern machining has resulted in tighter tolerances for both rifle and ammunition. When I shoot a rifle today, 1 MOA is no longer the measure of accuracy. Yes, that is more than enough for any kind of hunting scenario, but in terms of real accuracy, if you're not shooting in the 5's or lower then that isn't a really accurate rifle. Today's rifles, with good handloads, will shoot 1/2 MOA or better, and that simply was not the case 50 years ago.
Looks great , I have one very similar with the flaming bomb barrel . Its the only iron sight 30/06 I have ,and can't seem to get rid of it. First shot at 50yd. with a peep. Thought I missed the whole target, turns out it was in the 10 ring. Only other milsurp I can't release is an M98 sporterized to a deer rifle 8mm, my Uncle left it to me, first hi power rifle I ever fired in 1970. I pick these up occasionally and wish they could talk.
Something special about a projects completion that truely pays homage to the journey it took to get there. If that rifle could only talk of the hands that have handled it
Hey Tom I’m a hunter I have many store bought rifles , however the one I keep close to my heart is an old carcano 6.5x52 my wife’s grandfather built it from an ugly war gun to a sleek hand checkered beautiful deer gun thanks for the video
Tom, I'm letting you know I found a 03/A3 yesterday on 4/13/24. After watching your video . I got at a Gun Auction. For less than 300.Clams. When I returned home I discovered that the Dark Bore was in fact a Crusty & Rusty Bore😢. I was heartbroken 💔 . But then I remembered that I had a M44 Mosin Nagant Rifle that had a Dark Bore. So I followed the same cleaning procedure that I used to make that bore shiny on the M 44 and it worked again now off to the range to see if I need a new barrel or if I lucked out and corrected the issue.
Early in this video you mentioned that we are still talking about calibers like the 6.5s 7mms and 30 cals. That hit close to home for me. Most of the firearms I own are in calibers that most people would consider old or even obsolete. Currently I am fixing up a few old guns from the 50s and 60s. I just fixed up a Rem 11-48 that didn't work. I can't wait to take it pheasant hunting in a few weeks. I also recently purchased a Ruger flattop 3 screw 44 mag which is the best feeling revolver I have ever shot.
P.S. another easy mod on mausers is to hand-file their 18 mm-wide trigger guards down to a half-inch (12.5mm) width with half-inch-length inward curves from each end. All polished-off with rounded edging from a fine oil-stone..
My other old rifle, A Brand New 1891 Argentine Mauser. Yes Brand New. Never fired. Never loaded. Cosmoline still in the bolt and breech. Can't get a round in far enough to close the bolt. Wall hanger in a collection of black powder rifles . Cleaned enough for the wall. No marks on the bolt face or magazine the bore is perfect sharp well defined, trace of the cosmoline in the barrel. Original sling. Gonna clean it up and decide if I am going to shoot it.
After COVID I picked up a Smith corona 1903a3 barreled action at a yard sale for 75 bucks barrel was shot out I ordered a new one from Krieger got a new stock and a arken scope I am impressed with it. Shoots very well. Can never go wrong with a 30-06.
Howdy Tom, That rifle looks great and the way you have made it is fantastic. I live in WV and do some hunting but not much just small game. I really enjoyed your video and I have subscribed because I like the way you do he videos. Reminds me very much of Cumberland Outdoors channel. God bless and have a safe day.
I have two non branded Mausers, one passed down from my uncle which i turned into a heavy barrel 1000 yard target rifle and another sporter that i bought from a pawn shop. I am trying to keep the stock by refinishing it myself, but might just end up ordering a classic or heritage or prairie hunter stock from Boyds, in walnut of course.
Great video. So many good points made on the loss of the appreciation of craftsmanship and patience needed when working on a project like this. Earned a subscriber.
I agree with you about accuracy, I think people put too much importance on it today, too often sacrificing aesthetics and other aspects in search of ever better accuracy. An extremely accurate rifle is truly wonderful, but not absolutely necessary. Some very nice rifles might not be absolute tackdrivers, but they have more than adequate hunting accuracy and will harvest many, many head of game with no problem and you have the added advantage of useing a good looking classic rifle. 👍👍👍
I just bought some rack grade M1 rifles from CMP. 4 have original WW2 barrels. A couple look like a drain pipes. The worst one shoots 5 inch groups at 170 yards. Amazing.
From what I can see on the video I think you did a really nice job on that rifle, and the classic red rubber buttpad is just the chef's kiss. Frankly, I think you turned that rifle into one fine looking firearm. The thing about craftsmanship and fine firearms is that a lot people don't get much exposer to such things. For example, a few years ago my father acquired a very nice Winchester Model 62a pump .22. My father told one of his closest friends who also happens to be into guns about it and how much he paid for it. His friend told my father "why would you pay that much for a .22 rifle." It was only when my father's friend shot it that he finally understood why my father paid the price to get that particular gun. So without that kind of exposure people can easily overlook the fine firearms they may come across in their local gun store either new or used, and/or not understand why a person would purchase a fine firearm over a cheaper offering.
That is a beautiful rifle! In my opinion that's how a rifle should be. It looks great, fits the user and is accurate. I wish modern rifles were made the same way. You definitely turned a diamond in the rough to a real gem. I did purchase a Yugo M-48 Mauser, that someone butchered for $120 I am debating on whether to return it to military configuration or to properly sporterize it? You definitely gave me a little inspiration and insight.
Great insightful video,Tom. I had an old 1903A3 with Lyman peeps that I regrettably let go of. I wish I still had it. Beautiful rifle. They don’t make them like that anymore 😢
Tom I'm 35 and I promise you I appreciate craftsmanship and old firearms, I've been looking for a 03 springfield for months now but used gunwracks are dried up in my area of Florida, but I'm gunna keep looking!
Robert, I stumbled across this one last spring and I was surprised to see it on the shelf. The bad thing about rifles like these is we never know when we'll run across one.
Congratulations, Tom!! Over the last year I have watched all of the videos on the 1903 Springfield. Glad to see your work of art come alive. It's beautiful. If you can't recognize a labor of love you're not a true gun nutt!!
AMEN and AMEN.... There is no pride in workmanship.... I'd rather have Yr gun than ten of the new plastic japanese guns they are selling today.... Congratulations on a Family Airlom. Yr Gun will carry yr story for years.... I Thank You Tom for the time you take and for sharing.... GOD Bless
That looks great, Tom. You're inspiring me to do something like that and maybe I'll build some patience. I'm looking forward to seeing more on this and the 257 Roberts.
Just passed on my grandfather rifle to my oldest son. 1903 springfield in 30 06. I gave him a choice between a NIB weatherby lazerguard in 30-06 or my grandfather rifle that was my rifle ive hunted with since it was passed to me by my father who naturally received it from his father. Its a nice peace with an original stamp barrel the hole thing coated in the military green color. Forgive me the technical name slips my mind why writing this im sure it will come back once I hit send. The fact he chose this old rifle over what laid before him. Made me fill i did ok in passing on some sort of knowledge to him over the years. Even if some times he makes me question just how mutch he has retained. Maybe if im lucky enough to see it i can tell his child the story behind his new rifle.
Oh, I'm pretty sure that if I saw this rifle in person, I'd be impressed. It's a Model 1903 Springfield, after all. If I'd have stumbled into that pawn shop, I'd have jumped all over it for $299.00. But I'm biased because the old '03 is my favorite centerfire bolt action rifle. :)
I think the gun is amazing. Like you, I much more appreciate restoring something older into something amazing and on of a kind. That said, I do believe there are more people than not that do have an appreciation for restoration…I think they (including me) don’t have the time to take on projects or projects outside his/her knowledge base. Very cool!!!
I was born in December of 89. I think I was one of the last generation to be appreciative of hand crafted items in general. There are exceptions of course but in all people have changed so much. Sometimes I miss the simplicity of when I was growing up. We will never get that back
This is exactly what I want to build or have built for me. I've been dreaming of this for a while and it's time to pull the trigger. I do not have a shop or garage to do it myself with the learning curve at the moment. The 1903a3 made wonderfull and hand built is what I want for a 30-06 to hand down to my son. Could you recommend some one good who might be able to do this for me. My health is not..well and would like to use it other than just at the range while I could still go on a hunt or more. Thank you and wishing you all the best, Tom W.
I have one almost identical to yours I bought from Redding's Auction in Gettysburg already done several years ago, 400 bucks., LOVE that rifle, shoots, looks and carries well. As nice but much sexier than my model 70's.
Just bought one at auction a couple weeks ago. Has a brand new barrel and Model 70 style wood.. Bausch-Lomb 2 to 8 with external adjustments. Excited to see how " interesting" it is.
I also have a sporterized 1903a3. Had the same goal as you and also didn't have a lot of money. Mine has a timmny trigger, redfield revolution 4-12x42...with my hand loads it prints sub-moa five shot groups. The 30-06 of course is an outstanding cartridge! EDIT:. Forgot to add, mine has an 1942 original 2 Grove usgi barrel that somebody had chopped off the last two inches of before me. If one is willing to put in the elbow grease and a little bit patience the rifle will be great!
I know I’m later to the party here, but, as a younger fella that does like the newer ugly 😅 rifles, that Springfield my friend is a beaut. And I know of the time you put into it, I redid a Yugo/Mauser 8mm in full battle wood, it took 8 weeks to clean up the almost black wood stock and then re seal it. BTW, she ain’t as purty as that one of yours.
I have my grandfather's 1903. Its sporterized. Barrel says RA 4-42. Has a pre 1972 Leupold Vari X 5X9 scope on it. I want to get the trigger worked on as it is horrible. Tons of creep and creeky creep at that lol.
Enjoyed your rifle build! Looks great! I have a lot of black rifles. Building a nice collection of furniture rifles now. I have always admired rifles with nice walnut. Just freshened up an old mossberg 46b using polyacrilic. Also just refinished my hawken with tung oil. Both turned out great. You got a new subscriber!
I have to disagree with you on people not noticing craftsmanship I believe your viewers such as I are all craftsman in our own ways I also appreciate old rifles restoring military arms and woodworking and any of your viewers are probably like you and I that is phenomenal work and I appreciate others who do this trade also
Beautifully done sir… I just found you and your channel. Now I have a lot to catch up on what you’ve done. Blessings to you for sharing this passion with us. I can’t wait to see more.
My first deer rifle when I was 12 years old was a sporterized 1903 Springfield made 1917 to this day I have literally hundreds of guns and I will stack that 1903 Springfield against any rifle in my gun safe including that moderate 65 Creedmoor. honestly your Optics of what makes the difference nowadays on a really good rifle
Tom - I am amazed at the accuracy you are achieving from a GI barrel. Clearly the exterior has been re-contoured and smoothed, but the bore I assume is basically as Remington made it during WWII. Good for you! It's a nice job and makes a special rifle for you to take into the field.
Beautiful rifle ! The Springfield 1903-A3 was my first hunting rifle . I had the bolt cut and dropped to accommodate a scope and that was it. The Springfield 03-A3 is my favorite of all ! I just seen one for sale and I believe I'll take a look at it !
It looks like a Zastava Interarms Mark X. I want one, someday. They are beautiful rifles. Gorgeous furniture. Accurate as well, but they are just pieces of art. Great job 👌👌👌 It's a beautiful work.
It looks a Zastava Interarms because they are basically all the same action, a Mauser m98. The 1903 Springfield was a straight up copy of the Mauser and Mauser even sued the U.S. government for patient infringement and won. And I think that really says a lot about how good the m98 design was?
You're absolutely right. I had a dear friend who unfortunately succumbed to cancer who was a wonderful stock maker. He had the metal work done because he didn't have the machines. He carved a scene of a Whitetail deer jumping over a log. I owned hat stock after he passed. It was for a 1903 Springfield with a high serial number. He was an artist. I thoroughly am a now fan of your channel. You speak my language.
I have a sporterised 7x57 Mauser with an action dating from the 1930s. It was left to me by my father in law and I would not trade it for the world. It's beautiful. I also got 0.3 inch groups from it using my homeloads. Tradition, history, family connection and accuracy. Makes it a pleasure to hunt with. Thanks for another very enjoyable video. And you've done a great job on that rifle.
I’ve got a sporterized Remington 1903-A3 that I got at 14 as my first deer rifle. Over the years, I found and added an aftermarket hinged floor plate, a Leupold 3-9x40 scope, and a model 70 type 3 position safety. It is just a classic, timeless rifle.
Tom, you've done a fine rifle justice. You are totally right in that nothing has changed. We all appreciate beauty as proven by what will be paid for many of the old collectable cars. Craftsmanship has been replaced by expediency. Seemingly, what's cherished most today is speed rather than creativity. What you have to say in your posting is only overshadowed by the way you say it. I so enjoy your delivery, a treat to this old Brooklyn born bums ears. Thanks for all your work. By the way, that book you enjoyed so much is but a year older than me.
Tom, you have done an outstanding job on that rifle/stock. You have not destroyed the value of that rifle. In todays market, I dare say you could get a $6-700 with no optics. But, that one's a keeper for sure. Hope to see a hunting video with it this year. Again, outstanding work. Gorgeous wood.
I stumbled across your channel in an attempt to research staining and oil finishing a rifle stock. I bought a sporterised Lee Enfield mkIII chambered in .303/25 from a deceased estate several years ago. It sat in my safe relatively unused until about 2 months ago when I decided to begin building my Australian version of the reputed 1903 Springfield custom guns of years ago. My buttstock has identical pistol grip and comb additions to your Springfield. Thank you. I will now be watching all your videos on this particular rifle.
I am right on target with your way of thinking. I grew up in a time where these guns were staple of most hunters. I remember when men would work all summer to ready their rifles for the season and would show their work to others with pride and as a boy I would admire the hard work. Kmart and Yankee stores would sell old military rifles in barrels where you would pick out your best and get started.
Thoroughly enjoyed this series and all the other ones as well… the guns are amazing, the hard work and dedication is apparent, but for me listening to what your stories and taking in your experience is the best part. Looking forward to many more and can’t wait to see some hunting videos coming soon!
Now that was a great video because that is a great rifle. It very much reminds me of the stuff I saw growing up. Back when a file and rasp was what you needed to make a quality firearm. Before the era of five axis CNC machines where you just load it up and press a button. Back before plastic stocks. Im old, I spend a lot of time watching TH-cam at home, and its getting harder and harder to find something worth watching. Seems like these days all I can find is 6.5, or some new caliber mounted on a metal and plastic monstrosity stock. Your channel takes me back to the days I miss so very much, and your dedication to craftmanship and perfection show in the rifles you work on....I very much enjoy your channel and the rifles you have on it...another great video and another great rifle. Thanks and God Bless
Tom, 49 years ago I like you read about rifle building and did one myself. It was a 308 Norma Magnum on a 98 .Mauser action that I slightly modified all mounted on a Fagan double A stock glass bedded and free floated . Took it to Wyoming harvested a Antelope also a Pa. White Tail Deer. My own reloaded ammunition. Neighbors 308 Norma Magnum broke so I sold him mine. Lots of work all done by hand, just like you.
A lot of people don’t understand the satisfaction of reworking your gun yourself. Yes, the trained eye can find imperfections but that doesn’t matter. I refinished a Winchester Model 69A 22LR that my Great Grandfather gave me about 45years ago. I bedded the receiver, which was not easy, reblued the all the metal and free floated the barrel. It came out nice and shoots 1/2” groups at 50yds. I was really surprised at the accuracy. I would like to do some checkering but I’m afraid of messing up the wood. Yes doing that made it lose value, although it’s not worth a whole lot to start with, but it’s one I will not get rid of. I also had the receivere drilled and tapped and mounted a scope on it because I can’t see the iron sights very well anymore. That’s a beautiful job you did. Thanks for the video.
I just today walked into a pawnshop and brought home a "03A3". I came to youtube looking for more info and found this video. I came into the video with the opinion of " ew why did he sporter it." But i sat here and listened to you talk...one, because you sound like from where im from. Two, you were passionate about it. I respect the work you and the previous owner put into it, and it certainly has the silhouette of "Grand Paws Hunting Rifle" that so many people love.
Love the content. I have a sporterized 1903 with 2 groove rifling. My father was on a rifle team before I was born. He passed at a very young age and left it along with other fine rifles to me. Your video has inspired me to get this fine piece of history out into the field. Bless you sir...
I'm glad to hear that Ronald. These rifles are as fine as any ever made and it's good to hear you'll be taking your father's, and now yours, out into the field where it belongs.
I picked up a Rem 03-A3 sporteried. Barrel was 24" 2 groove made in Aug. 1944. It is set up with peep sights and with 150 fmjs it will shoot 1" groups all day long.
19gr of Trail Boss is a gem of a load to shoot.
Great video. Thanks much
I like it. I got me a 1903 Springfield as well. Just an old sporterized 06 from the pawn shop like yours, nuthin fancy. When I chronographed it the original 2 groove barrel velocity was really low. So I had a local Gunsmith put an inexpensive new Numrich barrel on it, found an old Fajen stock and it feels and shoots great. She's a keeper. Brown rifles matter. :D
LOL. I'm guessing this one was rebarreled as well? The receiver is a 1942 a3 but the barrel is September 1943 and I was thinking they only made a4's in late 43.
Brother you said a mouthful about having pride in craftsmanship in this age and time. Hats off.
Thanks Tom for the great video. What you were saying reminded me of my 7mm-08 that I put together. A sporterized Mauser 98 from 1904. Whom ever sporterized it had used the original stock and did a great job cutting in a pistol grip and making a Monte Carlo out of it. It had the original step down barrel and was in the original 8mm as well. What was unique was it had a double trigger on it. The front trigger is a set trigger and the back is a real light 1-2 pound trigger. I bought a barrel and a synthetic stock for it, took it to my uncle in TN who sporterized many Mauser actions before my time and I asked him to change it into the 7mm-08 it is now. The original stock that was on it was cracked in the pistol grip and he told me that the barrel was gone and beyond repair. He asked if he could have the stock knowing that he could fix it. I got that rifle from a pawn shop for $145.00. Of course I bought it for the action, but I made sure the craftsmanship of the stock went to a good home. I have yet to bed and free float it and I have some more metal work to do to it as well. It is has become a never ending project. Anyway, it looks like I turned that craftsmanship into a modern day ugly rifle. It's all about accuracy anyway, lol. Thanks and I appreciate the videos. You can see some of the Mausers that my uncle put together on my channel. One in 6MM Remington and another in 25-06. Thanks again.
Thanks for sharing that Cervus and I'll be sure to check those videos out. And I know exactly what you mean about never ending projects! But they are so nice when you get them close to finished. LOL
I just checked out your dove field and I'm going to have to go back and watch all of those videos. I wanted to plant one at my friends place but just didn't get it done soon enough.
@@TomRiverSimpleLiving Yeah we had a pretty good shoot this year on opening day. Unfortunately we only had 3 guns on the field but we retrieved 41 birds. I even got two with the the old .410 that I refinished. I took on the stock refinishing due to your 03-A3 stock finish video, LOL.
@@TomRiverSimpleLiving Yes Sir. Actually I have a video that I took last week with this Mauser and another one I did at the same time. It just takes some time getting them put together and posted on the page.
@@cervus-venator Believe me I understand on that one!
I'm darn proud 0f my 10/22. Old school, Richard's monte carlo walnut stock, 20 coats tung oil. Looks older than its 1980 manufacture. You do what you can afford.
A job you can truly be proud of!
There are few pleasures as satisfying as hunting with a rifle that has so much of your soul in it.
I am getting ready to start my fourth stock, made from a blank and mostly using hand tools.
What a great story. So much history, so much knowledge, so much commitment and effort. Now it is a priceless heirloom
Dang, Tom! That rifle turned into a rare beauty. Great job!
THAT is a beautiful example of traditional craftsmanship. I think there is a shift occurring that is bringing back the appreciation of/for handcrafted firearms.
My most beloved rifle (next to my first gun - Steven's model 24E Deluxe / .22-.410 O/U given to me by my dad in 1972 when I was 10..., I'm now 60) is a .25-.284 wildcat that I purchased in 1994 built on a Remington 722 action mated to a fiddleback stock with birds-eye maple forend/pistol grip. "The Wild One" is engraved in the floorplate of the fixed magazine. '66 is stamped into the heavy taper high gloss barrel making me think that's the year of build.
My last curiosity is that in one of my "GUNSMITHS KINKS" books is a photo (B&W) of a man handling a rifle that looks just like it.....I wonder......
hi tom , i'm of a 1964 vintage and i have several rifles after a renewed interest in hunting / shooting and two of my rifles are the late model plastic stock variety with the rest being laminated and walnut stocks one being mod 70 featherweight FN ' just recently i vowed never to buy a plastic stock rifle again ' if i had my starting choice of rifles over again there would only be 5 rifles in my gun cabinet that would be the model70 in 6.5cm , Marlin Laminated stock 30-30 , Henry 22mag golden boy (all of which are in the cabinet already ) and add a Remington model 700 BDL in 30-06 , and a Browning X-bolt in .223 all timber . Love the show , cheers .
Man this really gave me inspiration. Ive been trying to decide on wether or not to buy a new rifle for this coming deer season or just work my old sporterized 03-A3 into what i need it to be. The chambering in .308 Norma Mag, makes ammo a pain to find… but maybe its worth it
I cannot tell you how happy I am to see how well your dream rifle turned out to be. Well done. I offer you congratulations!
Sweet. "Own built" mausers are awesome. Great
job on your chequering. Fore-ends personally I
go for a smooth narrowing very-slightly curving slope from
the line of about an inch in front of front reciever bolt thru to the fore-end point
with the end point around 3/4 inch height and with about a 70 deg reverse
cut-back angle with the cut rounded nicely on the edges. Gives a really
nice sleek look and gives just that slightly extra "agile/flickable"
feel to the handling.. All good...
Cheers from down-under in little ole NZ
You've done great work making a silk purse out of a sow's ear. I'd like to try hand checkering but I've always thought that I'd ruin it if I have to refinish the stock after some years. I had a German-built Mauser sporter (done by a gunsmith there, not an Oberndorf factory sporter) and it had many imperfections on the engraving in places and people either though it was the most beautiful gun they've ever seen or it was just some old hunting gun. Some people still can appreciate handmade work.
Yes, I like the 1903's and war tiime Mauser actions.
I used to own an '03-A3, in a glass-bedded military stock, with a Lyman 'peep sight'.
I used it for hunting Mule deer, in Eastern Washington State. It was a GREAT big game rifle, using factory .30-'06, ( usually Remington's Core-Lokt ). A bit on the heavy side for toting through rough country, but no worse than the M-14 that I carried in Vietnam. And durable. Gave me yeoman service, until I could afford something scoped in the same caliber, and in a more weather resistant stock, so that I could also use it on the wet, Western, side of the state without the problem of swelling wood, due to moisture.
I have really enjoyed watching your progress on this 03A3. I am taking on a similar project with 1944 Smith Corona 03A3 sporterized I picked up for 399. I love the feel and handling of an 03 but I do not want another 30-06 so I am going to have a 280 AI tube installed. Seeing how well yours turned out tells me I for sure need to see this project through. Excellent job on that nice rifle.
What a beautiful tool. Makes me miss my father. Thank you for the reminder of where we come from, and god willing where we will go. Gorgeous rifle sir.
And thank you Michael.
Tom, believe me... I hear you. Much has changed over time, but to recall the old French proverb: "The more we change, the more we stay the same". I'm thankful that folks like us recognize quality and craftsmanship. Think of how many of those wonderful old rifles end up destroyed by people who have no appreciation for them. Thanks for saving that old '03 from the scrap heap. Use it in good health!
Tom,another bargin rifled followed me. It should be an interesting restoration. It is a Post 64 Model 70 Winchester in 264 Win. Mag. Its all original with a Weaver V7 scope in a Redfield base/rings. Also had a very usable military sling. Local gun store had it for $199. New territory for me...Magnum belted case... Good luck on your next project.
William, if you have a bore scope I would check that bore and make sure it isn't shot out. The 264 was famous for being overbore and going through barrels. With that said, most people didn't put a lot of rounds though them so hopefully yours is going to be in great shape. And if it is in good shape then that was an outstanding find!
Great job Tom! Man, the book is expensive! But it's probably worth it.
Beautiful job- most impressive. Way beyond what I'd ever take on. The rifles I have are some old wood Savage rifles and one Remington rifle which is the nicest looking wood and finish. They all shoot from 0.5 to 1.5 MOA depending on ammo. Perfect for sporting use and what I value and enjoy using. Enjoy seeing you have similar tastes as I do in rifles, right down to the Redfield Revolution scopes, which I also love.
I really enjoyed your videos on this gun. I just bought a JC Higgins model 50 in 30 06. Don't be fooled by JC Higgins it's a FN built Mauser sold to Sears it has a crome lined barrel it sat for over 2 yrs guy at the shop said. I snatched it up for 399.00. It's got beautiful finish on all metal parts..stock needs a refinish. But gonna be a beauty. Craftsmanship.
That stock is beautiful. I admire your craftsmanship. This look to me is the classic hunting rifle. You nailed it. Congratulations
You did absolutely a fantastic job on that stock. I love the elegant fine details you added to the stock, I think the old masters would approve of your work, please add you name somewhere discreet so future sportsman will be able to identify the craftsman.
As far as accuracy is concerned, realistically speaking , hunting involves many skills in addition to accurate shooting for the hunting you are doing. A woods hunter has a different skill set in comparison to a western plains hunter. Essentially most of us will be well served with a 4 moa rifle that handles and comes to the eye quickly. This rifle would be accurate enough to hit a 12 inch pie plate out to 300 yards, which most of us couldn't consistently do offhand at 300 yards. The skill of stalking is the answer to close the distance , for a more sure ethical shot at game.
I'm sure I am only restating what many hunters feel is that hunting is far more than target shooting, and A hunters preffered rifle is unique to the sportsman.
I love your videos and especially glad you express the sportsman's perspective that only those who travel forest and field in pursuit of game can understand.
Sincerely and respectfully!
"Nothing has changed..." Great insight! Love your channel. Reading a book? Oh ,my... reading and knowledge from the past? How dangerous... ;) Luv it!
That looks fantastic. Good Job. Love what you said about sporterizing an original condition old military rifle. I have 2 old ones . My favorite rifle an 03-A4 sporterized in 1962 or so by my " frugal uncle" . Function over form. It's oddity is the trigger guard and magazine plate are milled not stamped . Good old parkerized finish. Barrel cut to 24" 2 groove with a 4x 1" Redfield tube. Biggest limiting factor shooting accuracy is the idiot pulling the trigger, me !
Sir I recognize craftsmanship, I do a little myself, and I enjoy the work of others such as yourself. Its simple liveing.
I'm working on a 1964 Winchester model 70 in 243 I picked up at cabelas in Kansas. It's came with a timney trigger, open sights and I really like it so far .
I really like the work you've done with that rifle. I put one together for my wife that is almost identical to it. She's very happy with it and so am I, but when it comes to accuracy, things are not the same. I've been shooting for groups with my rifles for close to 40 years, handloading for the last 30 years. Back when I was getting started, it was not common for a rifle to shoot under 1 MOA unless you were using a handload tailored to that rifle. These days, many factory rifles, shooting factory ammo, will shoot under 1 MOA. The reason for that is modern machining has resulted in tighter tolerances for both rifle and ammunition. When I shoot a rifle today, 1 MOA is no longer the measure of accuracy. Yes, that is more than enough for any kind of hunting scenario, but in terms of real accuracy, if you're not shooting in the 5's or lower then that isn't a really accurate rifle. Today's rifles, with good handloads, will shoot 1/2 MOA or better, and that simply was not the case 50 years ago.
Really well done in your presentation. Looks a lot like a pair my father made for my brother and myself. 65 years ago. It’s a shooter’s dream.
Looks great , I have one very similar with the flaming bomb barrel . Its the only iron sight 30/06 I have ,and can't seem to get rid of it. First shot at 50yd. with a peep. Thought I missed the whole target, turns out it was in the 10 ring. Only other milsurp I can't release is an M98 sporterized to a deer rifle 8mm, my Uncle left it to me, first hi power rifle I ever fired in 1970. I pick these up occasionally and wish they could talk.
I know what you mean Paul, and I bet they would have some stories to tell!
Something special about a projects completion that truely pays homage to the journey it took to get there.
If that rifle could only talk of the hands that have handled it
Hey Tom I’m a hunter I have many store bought rifles , however the one I keep close to my heart is an old carcano 6.5x52 my wife’s grandfather built it from an ugly war gun to a sleek hand checkered beautiful deer gun thanks for the video
Great video sir. So true of all your timeless talk. Craftsman ship still the same.
Tom, I'm letting you know I found a 03/A3 yesterday on 4/13/24. After watching your video . I got at a Gun Auction. For less than 300.Clams. When I returned home I discovered that the Dark Bore was in fact a Crusty & Rusty Bore😢. I was heartbroken 💔 . But then I remembered that I had a M44 Mosin Nagant Rifle that had a Dark Bore. So I followed the same cleaning procedure that I used to make that bore shiny on the M 44 and it worked again now off to the range to see if I need a new barrel or if I lucked out and corrected the issue.
Early in this video you mentioned that we are still talking about calibers like the 6.5s 7mms and 30 cals. That hit close to home for me. Most of the firearms I own are in calibers that most people would consider old or even obsolete. Currently I am fixing up a few old guns from the 50s and 60s. I just fixed up a Rem 11-48 that didn't work. I can't wait to take it pheasant hunting in a few weeks. I also recently purchased a Ruger flattop 3 screw 44 mag which is the best feeling revolver I have ever shot.
P.S. another easy mod on mausers is to hand-file
their 18 mm-wide trigger guards down to a
half-inch (12.5mm) width with half-inch-length
inward curves from each end. All polished-off
with rounded edging from a fine oil-stone..
My other old rifle, A Brand New 1891 Argentine Mauser. Yes Brand New. Never fired. Never loaded. Cosmoline still in the bolt and breech. Can't get a round in far enough to close the bolt. Wall hanger in a collection of black powder rifles . Cleaned enough for the wall. No marks on the bolt face or magazine the bore is perfect sharp well defined, trace of the cosmoline in the barrel. Original sling. Gonna clean it up and decide if I am going to shoot it.
After COVID I picked up a Smith corona 1903a3 barreled action at a yard sale for 75 bucks barrel was shot out I ordered a new one from Krieger got a new stock and a arken scope I am impressed with it. Shoots very well. Can never go wrong with a 30-06.
Howdy Tom,
That rifle looks great and the way you have made it is fantastic.
I live in WV and do some hunting but not much just small game.
I really enjoyed your video and I have subscribed because I like the way you do he videos.
Reminds me very much of Cumberland Outdoors channel.
God bless and have a safe day.
I have two non branded Mausers, one passed down from my uncle which i turned into a heavy barrel 1000 yard target rifle and another sporter that i bought from a pawn shop. I am trying to keep the stock by refinishing it myself, but might just end up ordering a classic or heritage or prairie hunter stock from Boyds, in walnut of course.
Great video. So many good points made on the loss of the appreciation of craftsmanship and patience needed when working on a project like this. Earned a subscriber.
I agree with you about accuracy, I think people put too much importance on it today, too often sacrificing aesthetics and other aspects in search of ever better accuracy. An extremely accurate rifle is truly wonderful, but not absolutely necessary. Some very nice rifles might not be absolute tackdrivers, but they have more than adequate hunting accuracy and will harvest many, many head of game with no problem and you have the added advantage of useing a good looking classic rifle. 👍👍👍
I just bought some rack grade M1 rifles from CMP. 4 have original WW2 barrels. A couple look like a drain pipes. The worst one shoots 5 inch groups at 170 yards. Amazing.
Had the opportunity to install a scope and mounts on a sporterized 03-A3.
Was the slickest bolt action I ever handled.
From what I can see on the video I think you did a really nice job on that rifle, and the classic red rubber buttpad is just the chef's kiss. Frankly, I think you turned that rifle into one fine looking firearm.
The thing about craftsmanship and fine firearms is that a lot people don't get much exposer to such things. For example, a few years ago my father acquired a very nice Winchester Model 62a pump .22. My father told one of his closest friends who also happens to be into guns about it and how much he paid for it. His friend told my father "why would you pay that much for a .22 rifle." It was only when my father's friend shot it that he finally understood why my father paid the price to get that particular gun. So without that kind of exposure people can easily overlook the fine firearms they may come across in their local gun store either new or used, and/or not understand why a person would purchase a fine firearm over a cheaper offering.
That is a beautiful rifle! In my opinion that's how a rifle should be. It looks great, fits the user and is accurate. I wish modern rifles were made the same way. You definitely turned a diamond in the rough to a real gem. I did purchase a Yugo M-48 Mauser, that someone butchered for $120 I am debating on whether to return it to military configuration or to properly sporterize it? You definitely gave me a little inspiration and insight.
Great insightful video,Tom.
I had an old 1903A3 with Lyman peeps that I regrettably let go of. I wish I still had it. Beautiful rifle. They don’t make them like that anymore 😢
That is for sure!
Tom I'm 35 and I promise you I appreciate craftsmanship and old firearms, I've been looking for a 03 springfield for months now but used gunwracks are dried up in my area of Florida, but I'm gunna keep looking!
Robert, I stumbled across this one last spring and I was surprised to see it on the shelf. The bad thing about rifles like these is we never know when we'll run across one.
I'm impressed. Nothing like blued and wood. The love is in the work.
I wish I had you or someone with your knowledge as my neighbor I'd be spending all my free time learning your skills
*Tom. Well done. You made it pleasing to your eye... and you actually thought to fit it to yourself, as well. That, is inspiring.*
Congratulations, Tom!! Over the last year I have watched all of the videos on the 1903 Springfield. Glad to see your work of art come alive. It's beautiful. If you can't recognize a labor of love you're not a true gun nutt!!
Thanks Smokey!
AMEN and AMEN.... There is no pride in workmanship.... I'd rather have Yr gun than ten of the new plastic japanese guns they are selling today.... Congratulations on a Family Airlom. Yr Gun will carry yr story for years.... I Thank You Tom for the time you take and for sharing.... GOD Bless
That looks great, Tom. You're inspiring me to do something like that and maybe I'll build some patience. I'm looking forward to seeing more on this and the 257 Roberts.
Just passed on my grandfather rifle to my oldest son. 1903 springfield in 30 06. I gave him a choice between a NIB weatherby lazerguard in 30-06 or my grandfather rifle that was my rifle ive hunted with since it was passed to me by my father who naturally received it from his father. Its a nice peace with an original stamp barrel the hole thing coated in the military green color. Forgive me the technical name slips my mind why writing this im sure it will come back once I hit send. The fact he chose this old rifle over what laid before him. Made me fill i did ok in passing on some sort of knowledge to him over the years. Even if some times he makes me question just how mutch he has retained. Maybe if im lucky enough to see it i can tell his child the story behind his new rifle.
Thanks for sharing that Brandon. It sounds like he learned well!
Oh, I'm pretty sure that if I saw this rifle in person, I'd be impressed. It's a Model 1903 Springfield, after all. If I'd have stumbled into that pawn shop, I'd have jumped all over it for $299.00. But I'm biased because the old '03 is my favorite centerfire bolt action rifle. :)
Excellent finish and a beautiful package, the whole thing! Thank you for posting this series.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Old rifle turned out fine! Spacer is kinda ugly though. LOL Fine workmanship, great results. Enjoyed the videos and I do all others.
🙂👍you know what I like about it it's not perfect it's what you put in it a little love and care makes it personal for you and I appreciate that.
I think the gun is amazing. Like you, I much more appreciate restoring something older into something amazing and on of a kind.
That said, I do believe there are more people than not that do have an appreciation for restoration…I think they (including me) don’t have the time to take on projects or projects outside his/her knowledge base.
Very cool!!!
I was born in December of 89. I think I was one of the last generation to be appreciative of hand crafted items in general. There are exceptions of course but in all people have changed so much. Sometimes I miss the simplicity of when I was growing up. We will never get that back
This is exactly what I want to build or have built for me. I've been dreaming of this for a while and it's time to pull the trigger. I do not have a shop or garage to do it myself with the learning curve at the moment. The 1903a3 made wonderfull and hand built is what I want for a 30-06 to hand down to my son. Could you recommend some one good who might be able to do this for me. My health is not..well and would like to use it other than just at the range while I could still go on a hunt or more. Thank you and wishing you all the best, Tom W.
You did an excellent job on that stock. It looks great, it functions as it should and the improved bedding has paid off in superb accuracy. Well done!
Thanks!
As long as the original stock is somewhere safe i see no issue in wood turning a sport stock for military surplus
I have one almost identical to yours I bought from Redding's Auction in Gettysburg already done several years ago, 400 bucks., LOVE that rifle, shoots, looks and carries well. As nice but much sexier than my model 70's.
Fawnl, I don't think they'll ever top these rifles!
Great video Tom, I always enjoy watching your videos. It helps me relax and de stress, keep up the good work and hello from Australia !!!
Just bought one at auction a couple weeks ago. Has a brand new barrel and Model 70 style wood.. Bausch-Lomb 2 to 8 with external adjustments. Excited to see how " interesting" it is.
Just watch this again
God bless you, Tom.
I also have a sporterized 1903a3. Had the same goal as you and also didn't have a lot of money. Mine has a timmny trigger, redfield revolution 4-12x42...with my hand loads it prints sub-moa five shot groups. The 30-06 of course is an outstanding cartridge! EDIT:. Forgot to add, mine has an 1942 original 2 Grove usgi barrel that somebody had chopped off the last two inches of before me.
If one is willing to put in the elbow grease and a little bit patience the rifle will be great!
I know I’m later to the party here, but, as a younger fella that does like the newer ugly 😅 rifles, that Springfield my friend is a beaut. And I know of the time you put into it, I redid a Yugo/Mauser 8mm in full battle wood, it took 8 weeks to clean up the almost black wood stock and then re seal it. BTW, she ain’t as purty as that one of yours.
beau-ti-ful
and I KNOW from making guitars that the shape YOU made, and YOU decided was right
feels ANATOMICALLY perfect in your hands
I have a full custom 03a3 sportized with a 3x9x40 BDC it shoots better than I can. Amazing at the accuracy in something so old, like me.
I have my grandfather's 1903. Its sporterized. Barrel says RA 4-42. Has a pre 1972 Leupold Vari X 5X9 scope on it. I want to get the trigger worked on as it is horrible. Tons of creep and creeky creep at that lol.
Enjoyed your rifle build! Looks great! I have a lot of black rifles. Building a nice collection of furniture rifles now. I have always admired rifles with nice walnut. Just freshened up an old mossberg 46b using polyacrilic. Also just refinished my hawken with tung oil. Both turned out great. You got a new subscriber!
I have to disagree with you on people not noticing craftsmanship I believe your viewers such as I are all craftsman in our own ways I also appreciate old rifles restoring military arms and woodworking and any of your viewers are probably like you and I that is phenomenal work and I appreciate others who do this trade also
That is a beautiful rifle. I enjoyed watching you do all the work despite the flaws. Hope you enjoy the rifle in the future!
Thanks Andrew, and I hope I do as well.
Beautifully done sir… I just found you and your channel. Now I have a lot to catch up on what you’ve done. Blessings to you for sharing this passion with us. I can’t wait to see more.
Tom I Love what you did with this gun . It is beautiful and the accuracy you were able to get
Makes this even more special 👍
My first deer rifle when I was 12 years old was a sporterized 1903 Springfield made 1917 to this day I have literally hundreds of guns and I will stack that 1903 Springfield against any rifle in my gun safe including that moderate 65 Creedmoor. honestly your Optics of what makes the difference nowadays on a really good rifle
Great rifles never quit being great just because something new came along.
Tom - I am amazed at the accuracy you are achieving from a GI barrel. Clearly the exterior has been re-contoured and smoothed, but the bore I assume is basically as Remington made it during WWII. Good for you! It's a nice job and makes a special rifle for you to take into the field.
Recent fan, LOVE your work, James, Darwin Australia
Thanks for the reminder of how good we have it .
Beautiful rifle ! The Springfield 1903-A3 was my first hunting rifle . I had the bolt cut and dropped to accommodate a scope and that was it. The Springfield 03-A3 is my favorite of all ! I just seen one for sale and I believe I'll take a look at it !
It looks like a Zastava Interarms Mark X. I want one, someday. They are beautiful rifles. Gorgeous furniture. Accurate as well, but they are just pieces of art.
Great job 👌👌👌 It's a beautiful work.
It looks a Zastava Interarms because they are basically all the same action, a Mauser m98. The 1903 Springfield was a straight up copy of the Mauser and Mauser even sued the U.S. government for patient infringement and won. And I think that really says a lot about how good the m98 design was?
I made a stock for my grandfather's old sears and roebuck .22 squirrel gun. It's my favorite rifle and I wouldn't sell it for a million dollars.