Springfield 03A3

[North of 58]

I've never been to a military shoot and I was just wondering how often the Springfield is used, I picked an unaltered one at a gun auction about 20 years ago and shot it once. Any opinions as to the value of this gun?

 

[RifleDude]

I've never been to a military shoot and I was just wondering how often the Springfield is used, I picked an unaltered one at a gun auction about 20 years ago and shot it once. Any opinions as to the value of this gun?

I've seen the odd No4 in SR matches, but personally, I have not seen a 1903 Springfield. It doesn't mean you can't use it though. Its main problem is the need to reload after 5 rounds for the 10 round strings (to be fired in 30sec). A magazine rifle like the AR15 is much easier to reload after 5 rounds. This becomes critical at the timed matches. The No4 has the advantage in having a 10 round mag and therefore doesn't need to be reloaded in the middle of a rapid fire string.

The value of your Springfield depends on the condition. In good to very good condition, I'd say $400 to $500.

 

[Quiet]

The Springfield would probably be a good choice for using at a Vintage military match. The ORA usually holds a couple every year at Borden and the DCRA runs one during their week long target rifle competition in Connaught.

 

[tiriaq]

DCRA used to. Dropped it for the matches this summer.

 

[Quiet]

DCRA used to. Dropped it for the matches this summer.

I just got the latest issue of the Marksman, and you're right - they've dropped it for 2006 and 2007. Its too bad because that match was probably the only lure that would have drawn me to the DCRA fullbore matches...

 

[Nyles]

To a military collector, probably $300 to $500 depending on condition and originality.

 

[North of 58]

North of 58

Thank you all for the info.

 

[sunray]

"...reload after 5 rounds..." With practice, stripper clips can be nearly as quick.
North of 58. Use it. Milsurp shoots are for fun. Go have some fun. Just be prepared to have lots of other shooters buzzing around. Springfields aren't as common here as they are Stateside. Especially an 'older ' acquisition that's likely in better condition than most. A lot of newer shooters quite likely have never seen one up close. Some older shooters too.