03a3 rearsenaled or not?

**milboltnut** · 02-14-2015, 05:08

Just picked up an 03a3.... matching barrel and receiver.

Was wondering about the stock markings in front of the magazine.

There's 4.

89 in a square

1 in a triangle

11 in a circle

5 in a circle

Also an M in front of the Pressure Mark behind the trigger guard.

**Johnny P** · 02-14-2015, 05:24

Not much to go on there. More to follow?

**Rick the Librarian** · 02-14-2015, 06:01

Most of the markings you list are those stamped during manufacture. I agree with JP we'd have to have more information, as well as some pictures.

**milboltnut** · 02-14-2015, 12:10

the only other marking is the inspectors stamp FJA... what else do you need?

**Doug Douglass** · 02-14-2015, 03:14

Pictures???

**Rick the Librarian** · 02-14-2015, 05:07

We can't really tell you much - An FJA is seen on virtually all M1903A3s. It is the inspection stamp of the Rochester Ordnance District. Frank J. Atwood (FJA) was the commander, not the inspector.

**Rick the Librarian** · 02-14-2015, 05:34

When you ask about identifying an overhauled rifle, it is extremely difficult with photos, as finish is one of the main identifiers.

Serial number (at least the first few digits) and barrel date would be a start. Any barrel date after 12/43 or 1/44 is a sign the rifle was overhauled, but only one of them.