US WWII Smith-Corona 03-A3 1903 .30-06 Bolt Action Rifle, 1943 C&R SC Rare
SOLD FOR: $1,125
WOA# WY240224CC030
Make: Smith-Corona
Model: 03-A3
Serial Number: 4731659
Year of Manufacture: 1943
Caliber: .30-06
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine
Markings: This rifle is marked “U.S. SMITH-CORONA MODEL 03-A3 4731659” on the receiver, the stock is marked ”RA-P / OG / P”, and the barrel is marked “SC 6 43” with a flaming bomb. The bolt handle has an “X”, and the front sight is marked “C64157-4”.
Barrel Length: 24.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded blade. The rear sight is an adjustable peep sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: This rifle has a two piece full length wood stock set with a straight grip, straight comb and a serrated steel buttplate. The forend has a steel cap with a bayonet lug. There are minor pressure dents in the stock. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP from the front of the trigger to the back of the stock is 12.8”. The stock rates in about Excellent overall condition for a C&R.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: None
Type of Finish: Zinc Phosphate/Manganese Phosphate/Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mirror bright chrome lined and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates at a 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. This rifle has little to no wear. There is some scuffing on the barrel bands, rust on the buttplate, and light scratches on the receiver. The markings are clear. The screwheads are unused. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition as a C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Smith-Corona 03-A3 is a variant of the Springfield M1903 rifle produced during World War II. It was manufactured by the Smith-Corona Typewriter Company, which was contracted by the US government to produce rifles for the war effort. Chambered in .30-06 Springfield, the 03-A3 was designed to improve upon the original Springfield M1903 design and streamline manufacturing for mass production.
The 03-A3 retained many of the features of the M1903, including its Mauser-style bolt action, five-round internal magazine, and durable walnut stock. However, several modifications were made to simplify production and reduce costs. Notable changes included the use of stamped metal components instead of machined parts, a two-groove barrel instead of the M1903’s four-groove barrel, and a simplified rear sight design.
Despite these changes, the Smith-Corona 03-A3 retained the M1903’s reputation for accuracy and reliability. It was widely used by US forces during World War II, and saw action in both the ETO and the Pacific. The rifle was well liked by soldiers and Marines for its smooth action and excellent performance in combat conditions.
Today, the Smith-Corona 03-A3 remains a popular collector’s item and a testament to the ingenuity and industrial capacity of American manufacturing during wartime. -R.E.
