malco
(.275 member)
15/06/10 02:25 PM
Re: 1903 Mannlicher

Howdy Captain--
Peconga nailed it on the "Made in Germany" tag--the late pre-war rifles reflect Austrian annexation into Nazi Germany. However, with the exception of the M1925, the chambering ordinarily does not appear as a factory stamping on most pre-war models, as the "Model" itself designates appropriate chambering (M1903=6.5x54, M1908=8x56, etc.) 6.5 NORM I believe replaced the "M1903" stamp on some late pre-war guns because Steyr was by then commonly chambering in non-proprietary cartridges, including other 6.5 rounds. Seems like somebody posted on here not long ago that 6.5 NORM is 6.5x54--hopefully someone will verify.

The "about 1910" description is totally unfounded misinformation by the seller--the gun's from the 1930s. Paconga is also right about the sawn stock, a not uncommon feature of GI souvenir rifles. And yes, it's overpriced by the standard of other rifles in better condition that have sold recently.

As for the Wm. Larkin Moore gun, someone may well have shelled out the 6k. 1903s in that condition are exceedingly rare. However, if you're patient you can find a perfectly nice, intact shooter with good bore for about 2k, maybe less on a good day. The only thing you'll regret is that one won't be enough!
Best of luck,
Malcolm



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