I am in need of a replacement front sight for an 03A3, preferably a thicker one than the issue version. The current one is just to thin for me to get proper sight pictures with it.

Anybody have any idea where I could get one?

A file, small drill, a washer of the appropriate size, and there you are-custom made to your specs.

I've bought them off Ebay.

Pedestal, I am quality control challenged when it comes to anything more complicated than mowing grass. Long ago I made a vow never again to hold a screwdriver and a firearm at the same time. Drills? files? a washer?.... I'd reduce an otherwise decent Springfield O3-A3 to duck decoy anchor material. I'll go check on Ebay.

if you don't find anything on ebay try going through a copy of shotgun news or gun list, or go to a gunshow

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Originally posted by butchloc:
go to a gunshow

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What is it with you and gun shows? You a regular vendor or something? You started another thread chastising people for asking questions vice attending a gun show where they could "get answers and advice." Get a reality check, pal.

For the original poster, there's a guy over on CSP who goes by "Big Larry." He's a big 03/03A3 collector and has a good reputation. You might try and contact him at warbaby1942@scinternet.net. HTH.

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Originally posted by Matt Norman:
Pedestal, I am quality control challenged when it comes to anything more complicated than mowing grass. Long ago I made a vow never again to hold a screwdriver and a firearm at the same time. Drills? files? a washer?.... I'd reduce an otherwise decent Springfield O3-A3 to duck decoy anchor material. I'll go check on Ebay.

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Well, don't do that to a good Springfield! But assuming you are wanting to use the issue rear sight, I suspect you'll have to do a bit of file work at the range to "regulate" the front sight height, irrespective of how you replace it. Unless you get lucky.

Hello,
The front sight blade on the Springfield is not that challenging. Take a look at it and you will see the thin slot in the front sight base.
Front sight blade sits in that slot, straight up edge toward the shooter, curved edge toward the muzzle, about .060"thick, and there is a hole in the bottom of the base and in the blade as well. Stick blade in slot, insert small pin in hole, tap gently w/ small hammer until it starts and it will then move to other side to hold blade in place. If you want to squirt some Red Loc Tite in the goove around the sight blade base, just extra insurance of staying in place. Nothing to it, was there?? Remember it was designed and built for the military and not intended to be at all challenging or difficult. Hell the thing is Marine Proof, what more could you ask!! Like the other person said, take to range, bore sight, (take bolt out, line bore up on bullseye, slowly move head/eye to see if sights are also lined up on bullseye, and if not move rear sight till it does line up. If it does not, you may have to file some off the blade. Again, no problem and you will be so proud of yourself once you have accomplished this amazing feat of mechancial skill. Plus, you might even hit the target!!
Favor Center!!
dsiteman

Guys:

I am aware of a number of front sight blades that were offered by the military, to allow sight regulation, as to bullet drop. IE. A,B,C, etc. heights. I am not aware of any offering, military at least as to a "thicker" sight blade for the 03-A3. The suggestion of making one or having a gunsmith do it seems to be a good suggestion.

Jerry

Hey, Matt

If you want to stick with military type sights go to S&S Firearms at: www.ssfirearms.com

They sell a beautiful reproduction USMC #10 front sight for 1903's. The USMC sights were almost twice as wide as the standard front blade and also a bit taller.

Rick

Received the S&S Firearm USMC replica front sight blade today. A bit pricey ($34.75 delivered), but appears well made. It is double the thickness of the original, .100 vs .050. Will take it shooting tomorrow and see how it does.

Matt,

I looked high and low for those sights before I came upon the repros S&S sells. They also have the matching #10 rear drift slide with the larger hole for the 1903’s.

Shot it today and for my over 50 eyes the thicker front sight blade made for a much, much nicer sight picture and I was able to group shots better.

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Originally posted by Matt Norman:
Shot it today and for my over 50 eyes the thicker front sight blade made for a much, much nicer sight picture and I was able to group shots better.

Matt,

I know exactly what you mean brother! I have a hell of a time trying to use those skinny little blades.

Glad that sight worked out for you...I know I find it allot easier to use than the standard ones.