Gibbs 1903A4 sniper rifle

[ifit]

Always wanted one for a while now and finally picked it up 2 days ago. Can't afford an original so I opted for the gibbs. This rifle is brand new and been sitting a my lgs for about 3years no takers Beleive it or not. Scope is a really cheap copy made by FM Optics for Gibbs. Front of barrel stamped GR then looks to be a kings crown? Then 5-09 assuming year produced. Looking through the barrel and looks to be 2 groove. Some pics fir now and range time soon to follow. Anybody here have one? Care to share pros n cons? Appreciated

 

[agtman]

Congrats on your Gibbs.

These old-school "American Sniper" rifles aren't just cool and fun to shoot, but many are capable of really tight groups with good ammo (or tailored handloads) if you can master the trigger and understand the limitations of these small scopes. Some guys go farther with trigger jobs and bedding the action into the stock. Just understand that if you're going to compete with it, the rules of the CMP 04/Sniper competition prohibit a lot of tweaking. The only weak link on the Gibbs was, reputedly, the early run of ChiCom knockoff scopes. Supposedly, they had squishy dials and some wouldn't hold zero. Current (improved) models are said to be much better. I believe the CMP even sells such a repro 2.5x scope for the 04s. I would also advise loctiting all screws, including the stock screws.

My 04 isn't a Gibbs. It was built on a correct 03A3 Remington action with all USGI parts, including an original Redfield mount, rings and screws. Stock is also a correct mil birch stock. The original Rem barrel was pitted and rusted, so the builder replaced it w/ a Criterion tube. I had to add mil shims to the front base of the mount to bring POI down a bit to get an initial 100yd zero and still retain a good range of elevation adjustment. Scope is a "period correct" Lyman All-American 3x, which CMP rules now allow. Obviously, the stock pack, sling, and camo-tape are my add-ones.

 

[sevt_chevelle]

I bought a 1903A4 from Rock Ridge Machine a few months ago, from my understanding they are the ones actually making these rifles. Mine does included the newer scope, the G4, the older ones were G2. My rifle has a 4 groove Criterion barrel and stamped RR 14.

Took it out for the first time yesterday, I only had the chance to take it out to 50 yds. The rifle side with longer ranges was packed and I wasn't gonna wait 2hrs. Anyways, at 50 yds with surplus HXP, the rifle was shooting 5 shots into one ragged hole and the POA and POI were dead on. I was highly impressed with the rifle even at just 50 yds.

My only gripe about the rifle is the gritty bolt but am sure with some usage it will smooth out.

In my research about the rifles the early models which you have judging by the barrel stamp another gripe was the mounting hardware. I would suggest you replace the screws, as several people stated their were soft.

 

[ifit]

Thanks for your input and helpful info. The scope I agree needs to be replaced, looking at purchasing the leatherwood Malcolm m73 replica scope $325. Will Also be reloading for it n just ordered my die set. I've heard great accuracy coming from these repro rifles. Also need to check twist rate on barrel.
Atman, nice setup I have same rear bag on my fnh tsr xp .308
Chevelle, my bolt also is sticky but with usage will smooth out as u mentioned. Regarding screws will check. But for sure the screw behind trigger guard is short. Will order from numrich along with some shims for scope base.
One of my friends also suggested to rub in some tung oil let it set in, then come back with some steel wool...? Any other suggestions to preserve the stock, but kinda digging the dull original look. Will be also taking apart the whole rifle for some close up pics.

 

[dvdcrr]

The repro scope on mine fogged up completely. I'd put a scope on there you know is fogproof especially if dropping 325 on it.

 

[ifit]

Dvdcrr, your repro that fogged up is it the hi-lux m73g4?

 

[lencac]

Here's a little something I built some time ago. I started with a like new Smith Corona barreled receiver with a 4 groove barrel.

 

[dvdcrr]

I dont think so. Gen 2 as I recall.

 

[ifit]

Here's a little something I built some time ago. I started with a like new Smith Corona barreled receiver with a 4 groove barrel.

Very nice lencac

 

[ifit]

I dont think so. Gen 2 as I recall.

I regards to the new repro from hilux M73G4, indicates one of the features it has is Nitrogen gas purged. So this scope keeping it traditional looking should be gtg

 

[ifit]

Some close up pics




Still trying to figure out who makes the barrel, I read somewhere made in Italy for gibbs....I could be wrong

Faint mark on barrel

Best I can do w/iPad, lands n grooves of barrel. Barrel is actually shiny not sure if chrome lined