Springfield sporter

[Gil Martin]

I went to the local gun shop this morning to check out a large gun collection and stockpile of ammo that the shop owner bid on and was able to purchase. There is a pile of military ammo in sealed cartons, cans and boxes. There is so much stuff that the gun shop owner is still taking inventory of all that he bought in the transaction. Nothing else interested me.

As I was leaving, my attention was drawn to a rifle behind the counter. Closer examination revealed that is was a sporterized 1903-A3 Springfield with a 1903 milled triggerguard and floorplate. The scope mount was unique and it turned out to be an S&K Insta-Mount, one of the "no drill" type. What a unique and ingenious setup. The sporter stock was lovely with a recoil pad and the bore a 4-groove and excellent condition. Someone altered the bolt handle to clear a scope, but retained the military safety. We haggled a bit and the rifle cost $150.00 and came home with me.

This is now my 2006 project gun to use the .338-06 barrel that I bought months ago from Midway. I would not alter an original military rifle, but will work on a sporterized one. Why a .338-06 appeals to me remains a mystery, but within a few weeks will have one. All the best...
Gil