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I just picked up a full stock MS 1903 in 6.5 x 54MS.
All serial numbers match. There are serial numbers on the stock, bbl, trigger guard, trigger, receiver. I cant find a mark on the bolt - but do not know where a number may be located.

The bbl measure approx. 19.5 inch (or metric equivalent) to the bolt face from the muzzle.
The bore and chamber is very nice and bright and clean.
The stamps indicate that it was been built in 4 . 29

The issues are:

1. Is the 19.5 inch bbl normal (available) for a 1903 carbine?
2. It has a single, dual stage trigger. The stock opening for the single trigger would not even have the room for a dual set trigger design.
3. The trigger guard appears to be more "military" and not the delicate trigger guard with the scroll at the back that is "normal" that I see in various pictures of 1903 carbines. It does however have the correct serial stamp on it to match the rifle.

The proper patent information, 1903 stamp and stippling is on the top of the receiver as normal for the commercial version MS 1903.

The stock and butt plate (with cleaning rod trap and 2 rounds is there as is the slight triangle at the top to fit into the wood), front sight, grip area, cherkering, etc looks corect in every respect. The bolt is bright and does not appear to be military at all. No work on the wood is present.

I have seen a few military re-works and know that they have a Greek Crest and the bolt is rougher a sis the stock.

I am concerned that perhaps this is a military reworked version because of the trigger guard and bbl length.

I realize that by 1929 some alterations may have been made for other markets. Are these changes normal for this rifle?

I cant appear to get the pictures to get through to show you.

Any help from you fellows that have seen a lot of these is greatly appreciated.

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