The Accurate Reloading Forums
Mannlicher Schönauer mod 1903 6,5x54MS

This topic can be found at:
https://forums.accuratereloading.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/3221043/m/325108642

06 April 2005, 15:45
boha
Mannlicher Schönauer mod 1903 6,5x54MS
Anyone know of a fast way to date such a rifle?
Serial No 157xx

BOHA
06 April 2005, 15:47
boha
quote:
Originally posted by boha:
Anyone know of a fast way to date such a rifle?
Serial No 157xx

BOHA


Oops, is it a medium bore?
06 April 2005, 16:09
KurtC
The date is a coded set of numbers on the underside of the barrel.

Most 1903's were made between 1903 and 1923. Rifles with a 5 digit serial number would have been made during the latter half.

There is some evidence that a few 1903's may have been made on special order after 1923, but these would be extremely rare.

I will look up some info on translating the date codes.

I still think military, so anything 8mm and under is small bore. Big Grin
06 April 2005, 16:58
KurtC
The date code should look something like 6543.21. This would indicate that the rifle was the 6543rd rifle that was proofed in (19)21.
06 April 2005, 18:10
boha
Thanks! Always thought never to disassemble it but this makes it almost compulsory.

Boha
06 April 2005, 18:16
KurtC
Make sure you only use European thin, non tapered screw bits. Otherwise you will do unrepairable damage to the heads.
06 April 2005, 18:28
boha
Yep. I could not live after such a damage. Waited too long for one of these.. Smiler

Boha