[busdown3]

I am new to rifles, just information. I have a chance to buy a Remington O3-A3. It has never been used. It was suggested not to use but consider it as a museum piece. I would prefer to actively use it. Is there any reason not to shot it. Thanks

 

[lowell66dart]

I think there is a serial number range (early) that are not safe to shoot BUT, I don't own one so don't take my comment as gospel. Just something I remember reading.

 

[bigblock]

Shoot it. Its safe. No bayonet drills.

 

[elementfreak431]

I think there is a serial number range (early) that are not safe to shoot BUT, I don't own one so don't take my comment as gospel. Just something I remember reading.

I believe that only applys to the model 03, not the 03A3, but I could be wrong.

Shoot it! No point in having a nice rifle if you dont get to shoot it every not and then

 

[LoB]

^^What they said^^

Shoot the durn thing

I acquired an arsenal rebuild M1917 that was never shot since the rebuild in 1942. I shoot it because it was made to be shot.

 

[bd111]

03A3 was a great WW II, Korea, and VN rifle. Production was split between Remington and Smith-Corona. I wouldn't put anything by the seller's story, but if the rifle's in good condition and you like it, grab it and shoot it. CMP has plenty of M2 ball ammo.

 

[Dire88]

CMP has an article in regards to what serial numbers should not be fired. Mostly very low serial numbered 03's. I believe all of the 03A3's were hardened properly and safe to shoot.


I would be all for shooting it. If you have any question as to if it is safe to shoot then have it looked over by a real gunsmith that specializes in them. I'd suggest asking on the CMP forums and only using someone with a good reputation. It may cost a bit more or take a little longer, but well worth it in the long run.

 

[busdown3]

Did not Purchase

Thanks for the replies to my question. The owner of the O3A3 wanted $1800.00 for the rifle. The price seemed a bit high so I declined his offer.

 

[IH 1026]

Found this on the net concerning '03 serial numbers...

The heat treating method was immediately changed to a double heat treatment, and pyrometers were used to determine the temperature of the heated receivers. The change in heat treating was instituted between serial number 750,00 and 800,000 at Springfield and by serial number 285,506 at Rock Island Arsenal. Rifles manufactured after these serial numbers are referred to as "high numbered" receivers and are commonly stated to be safe to shoot.