1903 or A3 question

[RU shooter]

If you have a Lyman or other rear target sight mounted on a Springfield 03 or A3 model can you still use the clip guide for reloading? I tried searching for pics but cant find any that show if the guide is still usable.

Thanks,Tim

[shotman]

If you didnt cover the guide slot. A3 the rear sight is right against it 03 is wide open

[Bob S]

Unless the installer screwed up the position of the sight, yes, it should be fully functional as a clip-loader. The sight needs to be installed forward enough so that the base does not interfere with the bolt handle, but not so far forward as to cover the clip seat. The Redfield Series 70 sights were a little more forgiving of positioning because the base is a little smaller than the Lyman 48.

First pic is one I took some time ago to help explain to someone why a NATO charger (clip) doesn't work so well with an '03. The sight is a Redfield 70ST.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/BobS1/Springfield%2003s/NATOclip.jpg

Same rifle, in profile, close up of the rear sight:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/BobS1/Springfield%2003s/Classic%2003A3%20MR/Classic03A3MRRearsight.jpg

A lyman 48 on a different rifle:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/BobS1/Springfield%2003s/Classic%2003A3%20MR/Lyman48.jpg

I don't have any overhead shots on file to show the relationship of the gallows arm to the clip slot, I guess I'll have to add those.

Resp'y,
Bob S.

[RU shooter]

Thanks Bob S , as always your pictures speak a thousand words.

Tim

[Bob S]

Here are some overheads:

Redfield 70ST on an 03A3:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/BobS1/Springfield%2003s/Redfield70overhead.jpg

From the pic is looks like the small screw that holds the windage scale is in the way, but it's not.

Lyman 48 on an 03 Mark I:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v76/BobS1/Springfield%2003s/Lyman48overhead.jpg

HTH.

Resp'y,
Bob S.