What to look out for in used rifles?

[Croyance]

I'm not a rifle guy, but have thought about getting started. I had intended to get a .22LR, but then Colt revolvers became availible in my market. So the .22LR got put into the back burner.

Now, when picking up my latest, I saw a 1903 Springfield. I don't know much about rifles, but the action felt so smooth! If I get it, it wouldn't be my trainer, but something cleaned out to await greater expertise.

So what do I need to inspect and be aware of?
I found sites on the 1903 Springfield, but it tells me how to (dis)assemble, not the manual of arms. Is there a good book or website for this?
What is good reading for learning about proper rifle usage?

 

[dfaugh]

Buying a used Military gun is a bit of a crap-shoot. The usual areas of "wear and tear" are the throat (which you can only check with a boroscope) and the muzzle, which is often worn from the use of the issued steel cleaning rod.

Remove the bolt and, look down the barrel with a strong light source at the other end. You should be able to see the rifling clearly. Just because it is dark and dirty, usually doesn't always mean anything. I've "cleaned up" some really sirty bores that now shoot very well. But look carefully at the muzzle. You SHOULD be able to see good rifling right at the end. If not, then it probably won't shoot very well. If the seller has a boroscope, check the area right in front of the chamber. This isn't as important as the muzzle (IMHO), but it may make a difference.

Note that for what a really nice 1903 springfield goes for, you can buy a "modern gun" and not have to worry.

 

[MechAg94]

You can still get 1903 rifles from the CMP for under $500. You might want to check that out first. They sell good surplus 30.06 as well.