Gun Show, 1903 Springfields

[Dragoon 45]

Went to a medium size gun show yesterday in Tulsa. Was looking for a 1903 Springfield to shoot in Military bolt action matches. I knew they were getting high in price, but did not anticipate how high they have gotten. A Remington 1903A3 made in 1942 was priced at $1399. This rifle was in probably 60% condition. Cheapest 1903 I saw was $995 and it was missing the rear sight and had a cracked stock at the wrist. Then to add insult to injury, admission price for the show was $15.

Only worthwhile find in the show, was one sellar who had a large selection of wooden cigar boxes which were large enough to turn into cartridge boxes. Found one box which looks to be made from ebony and will make a very handsome cartridge box when I get a wooden insert made for it.

[RayinNH]

The masks they were wearing should have been a dead give away. Springfields around here are in the $700-$900 price range for average condition...Ray

[sundog]

Dragoon, where are you going to shoot Mil Bolt matches? Oil Capital is 2nd Saturday every month. We are also having a Swap Meet some time in March. You might check there or with the folks who shoot the match. Expect to pay $700 or more for a serviceable 03A3. In fact, I may have one that I might let go. Maybe.

[Harter66]

I never heard back from the guy I offered 11/43 2 groove Remmy w/the sportered stock for $300. it was just 6 mo.ago.

[starmac]

It wouldn't do for a military shoot, but there was a very nice sporterized 03 at the gun show here for 350. I see the advertised from 250 to 450 once in a while here.

[rockrat]

I was at the Tulsa show in Nov. and saw a nice two groove Rem. for $699. Went back to ge it about an hour later and it was $999 for the same gun

[Longwood]

I was at the Tulsa show in Nov. and saw a nice two groove Rem. for $699. Went back to ge it about an hour later and it was $999 for the same gun

You need to get there before the reasonable sellers see how bad everyone else is hopeing to rip people for.
I would have gone back to see if he came to his senses just before closeing.
I saved $200 on a Thunderbolt that I bought at a show last year by waitin til closin time.

[GARCIA]

Someone looking for a 1903a3?

Tom

[Dragoon 45]

We have Military Bolt Action Matches at Red Castle. With the prices they are asking for 1903's I will probably wait a while before buying one.

Dragoon, where are you going to shoot Mil Bolt matches? Oil Capital is 2nd Saturday every month. We are also having a Swap Meet some time in March. You might check there or with the folks who shoot the match. Expect to pay $700 or more for a serviceable 03A3. In fact, I may have one that I might let go. Maybe.

[leadman]

I have a military stock to return that sporter back to original if no other changes have been made.
It is sanded enough to remove the marking but would be great for a shooter.

[Phat Man Mike]

that's why I'm shooting my ole russian rifle. but I've traded for a enfield . hope to start using it some day.