^Lot 169 Scarce Early RIA Model 1903 Bolt Action Rifle

Scarce Early Model 1903 Bolt Action Rifle, by Rock Island Arsenal, #28584, .30-06 cal., 24'' barrel dated 2-05, blue finish, ''CN'' (Conrad Nelson) 1908 cartouched finger-groove walnut stock pre-dating crossbolt with high flat-top handguard without steel reinforcing clips; forend tip of stock above bayonet lug with large serif ''S'' indicating that the stock had been shortened at time of caliber conversion to .30-06. Smooth blue buttplate with case hardened trap cover, script type circle-''P'' proofmark at wrist behind triggerguard, early small diameter rear sight windage knob, smooth thin trigger, split shank lower barrel band. Condition is very good to about fine retaining approx. 95% factory blue with light to moderate pitting that has been cleaned near muzzle. Stock with mostly visible cartouche, dark abrasions with dings, gouges and scuffs; forend shows similar but slightly more pronounced marks. Buttplate retains approx. 90% original blue with case colors to butt trap only slightly muted. Action remains crisp, bore is fine to near excellent. A very scarce and highly collectible early '03 variation. Est.: $3,000-$5,000. (C&R)