Contemplating Building a 7.62 NATO M1903

[Kurt]

Are there any gunsmiths out there that would build a "shooter" M 1903 in 7.62 NATO?

Does anyone know of any 7.62 NATO conversions that have been done?

It would be an a "fun" project because I understand that the 7.62 NATO cartridge is inherently more accurate than the .30-06. Of course, surplus 7.62 NATO is much more available and cheaper than .30-06 .

A timely question as I'm working on a "fun" project and have wondered the same thing but in .308. Similar yet different. As far as the feeding issue, I tried some empty .308 brass with bullets in a couple 03's and they fed fine in mine so I don't think I would have a problem there. I picked up a McGowan Precision heavy target barrel on an auction that is chambered for 30-06 but isn't threaded. I could if I choose, have it re-chambered for .308 as it's a blank and unthreaded. I have read a fair amount on this and for the most part, no real up or downside either way. I'll probably stick with the .06 chamber. A bigger problem is finding a receiver...sigh.

Kurt

[wolley]

I have a MANN accuracy device in 308 on a Smith Corona action. Even though a feed cone was cut on the barrel feeding with more than 3 rounds in the magazine is problematic.

[Darreld Walton]

The 03 was designed, if I understand correctly, to be a single shot rifle with a magazine for 'emergencies'. The Mauser won't easily accept rounds presented in the same fashion as the 03.
I've had better success making .308's and similar rounds on M98's, probably because the original 8x57mm cartridge's external dimensions more closely approximate the .308 than does the 30-06-7.62 NATO comparison, and have yet to have a 'problem' with a 308/7.62 Mauser.
Awhile back, when NIW 03 and A3 barrels and M98's could be had for a 'song', I had quite a few of 'em made up as .308's and .300 Savage by cutting the threads off and rethreading to fit the M98. It's also a heckuva lot less expensive to purchase any 'accessory' for an M98. It's like comparing cars.

[StockDoc]

Dean's Gun Room done the barrel install, but cannot do the rear sight sleeve on the 03.