Quick Look
The Smith Corona 1903A3 is a World War II-era bolt-action rifle derived from the M1903 Springfield design. Engineered for ruggedness and precision, it offered reliability for U.S. troops during the war. It remains a sought-after classic among collectors and history enthusiasts today.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Proven wartime accuracy and durability
- Classic bolt-action design with sight options
- Strong historical significance and collectibility
- Supports .30-06 Springfield ammunition
- Robust construction with adjustable rear sights
Key Variants
Smith Corona 1903
Original production variant during WWII, used extensively by the U.S. military for infantry and sniper roles.
Smith Corona 1903A3
Simplified version with peep rear sights, optimized for faster target acquisition during later WWII stages.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Smith Corona 1903A3 | M1 Garand | Springfield 1903 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | N/A (military issue) | N/A (military issue) | N/A (military issue) |
| Capacity/Size | 5-round internal magazine (.30-06) | 8-round en bloc clip (.30-06) | 5-round internal magazine (.30-06) |
| Weight | 8.7 lbs | 9.5 lbs | 8.7 lbs |
| Optics-ready | No (iron sights only) | No (iron sights only) | No (iron sights only) |
| Trigger Type | Military-style two-stage bolt | Semi-automatic | Military-style two-stage bolt |
| Notable Pro | Proven reliability and historic value | Higher capacity semi-auto firepower | Classic design with sniper variants |
| Notable Con | Manual cycling slows pace of fire | Heavier with more complex parts | Older design, less widespread than M1 Garand |
Best Use Cases
- Historical collection and display
- Controlled hunting with .30-06 caliber
- Reenactments and educational demonstrations
- Range shooting with classic bolt-action experience
- Self-defense in rural environments (legacy platform)
FAQs
Can I use modern .30-06 ammo in the Smith Corona 1903A3?
Yes, modern .30-06 Springfield rounds are compatible and commonly used for safe range shooting with proper rifle inspection.
What is the difference between the 1903 and 1903A3 models?
The 1903A3 features simplified peep sights and stamped parts for easier wartime production, differing from the earlier, more precise 1903.
How does the bolt action on the 1903A3 operate?
It uses a manual bolt-action system with a cock-on-close mechanism, cycling rounds by manually operating the bolt handle.
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