1903 NRA Sporter

[MoMallard]

OK. All opinions welcome and wanted. I bit on this from Gunbroker a couple of weeks back and it came in today. My initial was that the metal was indeed a 1928 NRA sporter. A second look told me that it was probably an RIA receiver. I categorized the stock as a replacement, and the Winchester butt plate as too good to be true, at the least it was a reblue. But for the price, I figured I couldn't do better, even with a replacement stock. Pics are at the link below. Additional info: muzzle of 1.5 and a throat at 3.

http://s429.photobucket.com/user/danohudson/library/

[bruce]

I am to ignorant to know what to look for in such a rifle. From what I can see, you have a very nice rifle. I'd be thrilled to have such a rifle to take to the range and out into the woods and fields hunting. Sincerely. bruce.

[Rick the Librarian]

If you're wondering if the receiver is legitimate, it is. Springfield used quite a few ex-RIA unmarked receivers or forgings in making NRA Sporters:

1295615SPT 102928DCM RIFLE SALES 1922-42
1295616SPT 021829DCM RIFLE SALES 1922-42
1295617SPT 020129DCM RIFLE SALES 1922-42
1295618SPT 072929DCM RIFLE SALES 1922-42

I took a long look at this one, as I have #1295379 and like rifles made with RIA receivers. Mine is a NRA Sporter that was modified by Griffin & Howe and I bought it with the help and guidance of the late, great Michael Petrov a few years back.

IMG_0905 (800x234).jpgIMG_0906 (800x395).jpgIMG_0913 (800x390).jpg

[JimF]

. . . . . and the Winchester butt plate as too good . . . . .
http://s429.photobucket.com/user/danohudson/library/

I'm at a loss to figure out what led you to believe it is a Winchester butt plate!!

Looks to be a Springfield product to me. --Jim

[Fred]

If you're wondering if the receiver is legitimate, it is. Springfield used quite a few ex-RIA unmarked receivers or forgings in making NRA Sporters:

1295615SPT 102928DCM RIFLE SALES 1922-42
1295616SPT 021829DCM RIFLE SALES 1922-42
1295617SPT 020129DCM RIFLE SALES 1922-42
1295618SPT 072929DCM RIFLE SALES 1922-42

I took a long look at this one, as I have #1295379 and like rifles made with RIA receivers. Mine is a NRA Sporter that was modified by Griffin & Howe and I bought it with the help and guidance of the late, great Michael Petrov a few years back.

Beautiful Rick! The G & H sporters are the top of the line in my opinion and I'd really like to own one some day.

[Ed Byrns]

Mr.M Mallard
The rifle is a real sporter.
1295617SPT 020129DCM RIFLE SALES 1922-42

Respectfully
Ed Byrns

[MoMallard]

Jim:

Yes. That was a colloquialism. Should be "Winchester" STYLE. It is indeed of Springfield manufacture.

[MoMallard]

RTL: Awesome G&H!!

[Herschel]

Congratulations on finding a fine 1903 NRA Sporter. As best I can see all parts are correct and probably original except for the front sight. A front sight will be easy to find and if you don't like the better aftermarket one that is one the rifle. Collectors refer to the buttplate on your rifle as a thick shotgun type buttplate. The finish on the buttplate does not look as shiny as most of them but it is the correct type.

[chuckindenver]

buttplate was called a shotgun style buttplate