I have a couple of springfields..one a 1903 and another a 1903A3. However, the 1903A3 version that was rechambered to .308 Norma. My problem is the A3 action I have appears to be longer. The redfield bridge mount I bought for it is obviously to short. Was there a version of the 1903 action that was longer than standard? I did a work around by drilling a new hole in the redfield mount forward of the rear hole on the front of the mount. Using the original hole would not have worked because the corresponding hole in the receiver would have been off the rear of the front receiver ring.

As far as I know 1903’s (including 03A3’s) were only made in one length. Perhaps someone has altered the action you have, or the scope base is a mismatch (or the holes are.)

I'm surprised that your's looks as if it has been lengthend for the .308 Norma Mag. There is no need to lengthen the action for either the .308 Norma or the .358 Norma Mags. I've owned both on standard Springfield actions and no "lengthening" was required for either cartridge.

More likely, I'd guess, was that the person who drilled & tapped it for scope mounts, used a two piece base set-up, and just didn't bother to do the hole-spacing so that a one-piece base would also work. Or vice-versa. It is also possible the work was done long enough ago that the hole spacings were not yet standardized to allow for both one-piece and two-piece bases, sometimes even from the same maker.

with the redfield mount the rear hole is where it is supposed to be on the rear of the action where the original peep sight would attach. The problem is on the front. the receiver was drilled for a weaver type front base. when I attached the redfield base, the first hole in the base was just barely on the receiver ring. Also the bolt from this gun will not go all the way in my 1903? I tried switching them around just as an experiment.

The bolts on 1903’s and A3’s are interchangeable so it sounds as though someone has altered your receiver at some point along the road.

Well, you've piqued my interest.

Here's a pic of my 03A3 with Redfield Jr base.

Receiver measurement from rear ring to front ring is 5 7/8".......Redfield base is 5 1/2".

The 03A3 bolt is interchangable with an 03 bolt.....barring the usual headspace considerations.

GV

Very nice looking rifle! People need to look at ones like yours before they automatically say that 03A3’s aren’t worthy of turning into a sporter.