U.S. 1903A3 Military Rifle Sporter: Who Made It?

Question: I have a .30-’06 rifle with the following marks, both on the receiver and the barrel. On the tip of the barrel there’s a bomb or cannonball with what looks like flames, and a center punch indent inside along with the numbers “9 43”. The receiver has “U.S.” stamped on it and the serial number is “3549XXX”. Could you provide any information as to the make of the rifle?

 -J.I. via Email

Answer: Your rifle is a nice sporter made up from a U.S. 1903A3 military rifle. The serial number indicates the gun was manufactured by Remington in March 1943, although the barrel date is for September 1943. Still, this could be the barrel original to the receiver, as there was often some mixing and matching at the factory. The gunsmith did a very creditable job on this piece scoping it, modifying the bolt handle and adding an extended safety. It’s a handsome piece. 

-Garry James