03-A3 scope mount

[deadeye1122]

Having a few post on this forum on the recent purchase of a 03-A3 with a Unertl scope. I've been told you can't mount a different scope because the rear action is to thin for a dovetail. Your knowledge is appreciated.

 

[rcmodel]

You would have to drill & tap the front & rear receiver ring for a scope mount base.

No dovetails involved.
Except the one somebody ground off the rifle the scope base sets on.
That is too bad, as it acts as a recoil lug for the base.
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/22...rd-scope-base-springfield-1903a3-1903a4-gloss

rc

 

[deadeye1122]

Looking at my pic how would fasten the rear of the mount? Less than 1/8 inch thick and no clearnce for the bolt to give. Drill and tap,file off excess screw that would protrude into the receiver. Not going to do it myself ,just looking for opions. A good smith is hard to come by in my area. thanks deadeye

 

[Zeke/PA]

Are the issue bolt/safety alterations complete?
If not, a top mounted scope is impossible.

 

[rcmodel]

I'm not sure what to tell you.

Whoever ground the 03A3 male sight dovetail off the receiver bridge pretty much took all the metal off necessary for the base screw threads too.

It might hold with the two front screws holding it, and the rear screw just snugged down without pulling the threads out? But it would be Mickey-Mouse at best.

I think it would be better for a gunsmith to hi-temp silver solder a chunk of steel shaped to fit the mount back on there for a scope base recoil lug & enough thickness to tap threads.

rc

 

[dprice3844444]

custom mounts. old western scrounger has o3a3 receivers

 

[Zeke/PA]

If the bolt/safety alterations are not done, the ONLY other alternative is a VERY high scope mounting.

 

[deadeye1122]

Zeke I've pretty much decided to keep this rifle/scope set up is. What are these saftey/bolt mods that you mentions in your replys?Thanks again deadeye.

 

[rcmodel]

with a small tube Unertl scope, the military bolt handle and 180 degree safety should work under it.

A low mounted large tube hunting scope would require the bolt handle to be bent down and out to clear the eye-piece.
And a low-scope safety would have to be installed to work entirely on the right side of the scope.

Like this:
http://www.google.com/imgres?q=03+s...bnw=127&start=15&ndsp=20&ved=1t:429,r:19,s:15

rc

 

[Zeke/PA]

I agree with RC'S statements of course.
In viewing the picture though, it appears that the stock itself has NOT been altered/inletted for the bent/welded bolt handle.
Good luck in your quest.