Any 1903 experts with markings??

[skeeter4206]

A recently picked up a 1903 springfield (remington manufacture) I was initially told it was an Augusta Arsenal rebuild with the stampings on the stock.

The markings I do see are:
- the bottom of the stock has a circle-P from the initial proof test and an additional P which is usually stamped when the gun has been rebuilt and re-proofed again.

- There is a marking AAE on the left side of the stock which Is the marking I am trying to figure out if it is really an Augusta Arsenal stamping. The "E" letter at the end I cannot find on any of the web pages with inspector listings.

- Just above the AAE stamping is a very lightly stamped RLB which from what I read is the inspectors stamp from initial manufacture.

- The barrel has the flaming bomb with RA above it and 5-42 under it. I understand that this is a May of 1942 barrel, which I was told when I got it was a replacement barrel. The grooves in the barrel have 4 landings instead of the early style 2, and looks pretty good down the barrel. No pitting.

- But looking up the serial number range for Remington model 1903's it falls in the 1942 period of manufacture. So maybe original barrel. Dont really know now.

So I attached so pictures of this rifle so maybe someone can give a little insight on the markings if anyone knows. Im really curious about the AAE marking with the inspectors stamp 'E" not being documented on line anywhere, if its right or not.

[skeeter4206]

[sheepherder]

If you are interested in viewing/joining another forum, the Surplus Rifle Forum has an excellent section on these rifles...

http://www.surplusrifleforum.com/viewforum.php?f=36